Adjustable Link for Elastomeric Straps Using Sloped Locking Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable links for straps are complex, costly, and damaging to elastomeric materials, posing operational challenges and safety hazards, especially when under tension.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable link assembly with a sliding crossbar and sloped surfaces that securely locks and releases an elastomeric strap without damaging it, using a molded plastic construction for ease of use and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional adjustable links use bars or jaws that dig into the strap, then the strap can be securely held under tension, but the strap material suffers damage (fraying and crushing/kinking of fibers) especially with elastomeric materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the contacting surfaces by introducing sloped faces at specific angles (e.g., 30-60 degrees) instead of sharp edges. This angular parameter change allows the surfaces to glide along each other, distributing contact pressure over a larger area and preventing the concentrated stress that causes fiber damage in traditional designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the sloped facial surfaces acting as a mediator between the locking bar and the strap. Instead of the bar directly biting into the strap, the sloped surfaces intervene to gradually bend and position the strap, reducing direct mechanical impact and preventing material damage while maintaining secure holding.
2Reliability
If traditional adjustable links employ complex mechanisms with multiple parts, then the strap can be securely adjusted and held, but the device becomes more costly and less durable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated body structure. The body member incorporates both the stationary sloped face and the guide channels for the sliding bar, combining what would traditionally be separate components into one molded piece. This reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the reliable adjustment and locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding bar member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a locking element, a guiding element (through its interaction with guide channels), and an adjustment mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliability.
3Strength
If traditional adjustable links use metal construction, then the device is durable and can hold tension, but it is costly, heavy, and may cause injury or damage surrounding materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction, specifically using high-strength molded plastic (such as nylon or polyethylene) that combines the necessary mechanical strength to hold tension with the inherent safety advantages of non-metallic materials. This composite approach replaces metal while maintaining structural integrity and reducing harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adopts a design philosophy where the adjustable link is constructed from economical molded plastic that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. While the individual component may have a shorter service life than metal, the overall system reliability is maintained through the simplicity and replaceability of the components, while significantly reducing cost and injury risk.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a quick, convenient, and durable adjustment mechanism that prevents material damage and reduces operational hazards, suitable for a wide range of fittings and elastomeric straps, while being economical and lightweight.
Implementation Method 1
when tension is slackened from the main leg the free leg of the elastomeric strap presses the crossbar back away from the stationary portion of the body member so that the free leg of the strap is returned to the direct line path and thereby freed to slip through the link assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable link assembly for use with a flat cross-section shock cord or other strap formed of elastomeric material. The adjustable link attaches the cord to a load-bearing member, such as a hook or other fitting, which may be formed integrally therewith. The link assembly includes a body member having an entrance/exit passage for the strap, and a sliding crossbar over which the free end of the strap is routed. When the main leg of the strap is tensioned, the crossbar is drawn against a stationary bridge piece of the body member, the crossbar and bridge piece having cooperating sloped surfaces that are angled in a reverse direction from a straight line path from the top of the crossbar to the opening of the entrance/exit passage. The cooperating faces thus force the strap into a reverse bend or kink, which locks the strap in position so long as the main leg of the strap is subjected to tension. When the tension is relieved, the elastomeric material of the strap pushes the crossbar back away from the stationary bridge piece, straightening the kink and releasing the strap so that its length can be adjusted, without the user having to manipulate the link assembly itself.