Articulating tension adjustment device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for tensioning a member transverse to an anchor point often lead to binding and fatigue due to articulation movement and changing load forces, which can result in loosening of the tension force.
Innovation Solution
An articulating-tension arrangement that includes an elongate member extending through an aperture at the anchor point with a tightening member and an articulating-tension washer featuring an arcuate surface, allowing for secure tension and articulation perpendicular to the anchor point while preventing binding and fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a tightening member is used to provide tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture, then the tension force is improved, but binding and fatigue occur during articulation movement
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating-tension washer incorporates an arcuate surface that extends in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member. This curved geometry allows the washer to accommodate articulation movement and changing load forces without binding, while the tension member maintains effective tension force application.
2Shape
If the elongate member is positioned transverse to the anchor point to achieve perpendicular tension, then the spatial arrangement is improved, but articulation movement causes loosening of the tension force
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating-tension washer is designed to dynamically accommodate articulation movement of the elongate member while maintaining stable tension force. The arcuate surface geometry enables the washer to move with the articulation while the tightening member preserves the tension force, preventing loosening despite the dynamic movement.
3Force
If washers are used in the arrangement, then force transmission is improved, but binding of the washers occurs during articulation movement
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating-tension washer replaces conventional flat washers with an arcuate surface geometry that eliminates binding during articulation movement. The curved surface allows the washer to rotate and move with the articulation while maintaining effective force transmission between the tightening member and the elongate member.
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating-tension washer and an articulating-tension arrangement, which includes the washer, for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through an aperture defined by the anchor point and having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to a first plane within which the anchor point lies. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The articulating-tension washer is to be retained at the aperture to transmit a force between the tightening member and the elongate member, and includes an arcuate surface for location away from the aperture, the arcuate surface extends in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.