Adjustable Strap Connector With Spring Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Straps on luggage and backpacks typically have fixed positions, making them difficult to use for individuals with body sizes that do not fit the standard width, requiring manufacturers to produce multiple sizes to accommodate different body types.
Innovation Solution
A strap adjustment device with a retaining body and a strap connector that allows for adjustable positioning of straps, utilizing a spring mechanism and locking elements to secure the strap connector in place, enabling horizontal movement and locking in multiple positions within the retaining body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed strap positions are used, then manufacturing is simplified and structure is stable, but adaptability to different body sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The strap connector is designed to be movable within the retaining body along the horizontal axis, transitioning from a fixed position to a dynamic, adjustable position. The spring mechanism enables the connector to move to different stopping positions along the horizontal axis, allowing the strap width to be adjusted according to different body sizes while maintaining structural stability through the locking protrusions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the positional parameter of the strap connector along the horizontal axis. By allowing the connector to move to different positions (first stopping position, second stopping position, etc.), the strap width parameter can be varied to accommodate different body types, transforming a fixed-parameter design into a variable-parameter design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple product sizes are produced, then adaptability to different body types is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes a single product design universal by incorporating an adjustable strap connector that can accommodate multiple body types. Instead of producing separate products for different sizes, one product with an adjustable connector serves multiple functions and fits various body widths, eliminating the need for manufacturers to produce multiple size variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable connector introduces dynamics to an otherwise static product design, enabling a single standardized product to adapt to different user needs through movement and repositioning, rather than requiring multiple static product variants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable strap positioning is enabled, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the movable strap connector, the spring mechanism, and the protrusion-based locking system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve adjustable positioning, making the complexity manageable and the mechanism reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically returns the strap connector to its original position after adjustment, and the protrusions automatically lock the connector at stopping positions. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for additional control systems or complex actuation mechanisms, keeping the device relatively simple despite its adjustability.
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
Enables adjustable strap spacing to fit various user sizes, providing a secure and adjustable connection that withstands tension and different angles, enhancing user comfort and reducing the need for multiple product sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mounted on the distal end. The spring is preferably a coil spring. The spring is arranged so that the strap connector can be moved lower into the cavity by pressing on the strap connector against the force of the spring
Data Source
AI summary
A strap adjustment device has a retaining body and a strap connector adjustably mounted in the retaining body. The retaining body has an interior cavity and a top opening extending in a horizontal direction, and at least one protrusion extending into the cavity. The strap connector has a strap connecting portion with at least one strap connecting element, and an adjustment portion disposed inside the cavity. The adjustment portion has a lower locking element and a spring mounted its end. When the spring is in a relaxed state, the protrusion prevents movement of the strap connector in the horizontal direction by blocking the lower locking element. Pressing the strap connector against the force of the spring moves the lower locking element below the protrusion, so that the strap connector can be moved in the horizontal direction to a new position within the retaining body.