Bag Strap Cable Tensioning for Body Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bag straps are limited to length adjustment only, failing to allow users to tailor the shape or tension of the strap to fit their body, which can lead to discomfort and uneven distribution of weight during carrying.
Innovation Solution
The strap system includes a tension element that can be moved between a tightened and relaxed state, changing the shape of the strap body, and an actuation mechanism that adjusts tension, allowing for customizable shape and improved fit on the user's body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bag straps are used with fixed length, then the strap structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the strap cannot adapt to different body shapes and causes uneven weight distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The strap incorporates a tensioning mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of strap tension and shape. The cable can be tightened or loosened to adapt the strap contour to different body shapes, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that responds to user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap allows adjustment of physical parameters including cable tension, strap shape curvature, and attachment point positioning. These parameter changes enable the same strap structure to adapt to various body types and carrying preferences without requiring multiple different straps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the strap length is made adjustable, then the strap can better fit different users, but the adjustment mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment functionality is extracted as a separate, modular cable tensioning mechanism that can be independently operated. This allows the core strap structure to remain simple while the adjustment capability is provided through a dedicated, easily replaceable tensioning component.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable tensioning system provides dynamic length adjustment capability, allowing users to modify strap length and tension on-demand rather than being constrained to fixed length options. This dynamic adjustment simplifies the overall design compared to complex multi-position locking mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the strap tension is increased to improve carrying stability, then the strap holds the bag more securely, but the strap causes more discomfort and pressure on the shoulder
Solution Approach 1:
The strap distributes tension forces across different local areas including the shoulder, chest, and hips through strategically positioned attachment points. This local distribution of force reduces pressure concentration on any single point while maintaining overall carrying stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Users can adjust cable tension parameters to optimize the balance between stability and comfort. The system allows fine-tuning of tension levels and strap positioning to achieve the optimal force distribution for different carrying conditions and user preferences.
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
This solution enables the strap to adapt to individual body shapes, enhancing comfort and ensuring even weight distribution, reducing shoulder fatigue and improving carrying experience.
Implementation Method 1
The cable is interconnected between a second portion of the strap and the winding reel. The cable loops from the strap to the reel such that winding of the reel retracts the cable to pull the second portion of the strap toward the first portion.
Implementation Method 2
winding of the reel retracts the cable to pull the second portion of the strap toward the first portion
Implementation Method 3
The winding reel is secured to a first portion of the strap. The cable is interconnected between a second portion of the strap and the winding reel.
Implementation Method 4
A cam lock is disposed within the housing and is rotatable about an axis of rotation. Rotating the cam lock in a first direction selectively advances the cable from the winding reel and rotating the cam lock in a second direction selectively releases the cable onto the winding reel.
Implementation Method 5
The cam lock is rotatable about an axis of rotation. Rotating the cam lock in a first direction selectively advances the cable from the winding reel and rotating the cam lock in a second direction selectively releases the cable onto the winding reel.
Implementation Method 6
A ratchet is interlocked with the cam lock and selectively engages with the cable to prevent rotation of the cam lock in the first direction when the cable is under tension.
Data Source
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AI summary
A strap for a bag comprises a foam core having a first end attached to a first location of the bag, a second end attached to a second location of the bag, and a channel defined by the foam core and extending between the first end and the second end. The strap further comprises a tension element (i) disposed within the channel, (ii) extending along a majority of the foam core between the first end and the second end, (iii) movable between a tightened state and a relaxed state, and (iv) including a first portion attached to the first end and a second portion attached to the second end, the tension element applying a force on the first end and the second end in the tightened state to change the relative position of the first end and the second end.