Bistable Snap Wrap for One-Handed Cable Bundling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable wrapping devices require two hands for application, are typically disposable, and lack secure, one-handed, reusable solutions that maintain coil shape and can be easily removed without tools.
Innovation Solution
A latching snap wrap with a flexible base and hook-and-loop connectors that transitions from a widthwise arc to a lengthwise curve for secure wrapping, allowing one-handed operation and easy removal, featuring a bistable spring design for reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple wrap device is used to secure cables, then the device is inexpensive and easy to manufacture, but it requires two hands for operation and cannot maintain coil shape
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device is segmented into distinct functional zones: a gripping end with protrusions for one-handed activation, a flexible body portion for wrapping, and a securing end with engagement features. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, enabling one-handed operation while maintaining simplicity and ease of manufacture.
2Device complexity
If a disposable wrap device is used, then the device is simple and inexpensive, but it must be removed forcefully and disposed of after one use
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device incorporates dynamic, reversible engagement mechanisms including flexible tabs that can be snapped into place and equally easily released. The flexible body material allows the wrap to be applied with tension and then released without permanent deformation, enabling repeated use while maintaining a simple overall device structure.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a secure wrap is applied to maintain coil shape, then the coil maintains its shape, but the wrap cannot be easily removed without additional tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device incorporates an intermediary release mechanism in the form of protrusions and corresponding recesses that facilitate easy engagement and disengagement. These intermediary features act as a mediator between the user's manual input and the wrap's securing function, allowing the wrap to maintain secure holding force during use while enabling tool-free removal when needed.
4Ease of operation
If a one-handed wrap device is designed, then the device allows one-handed operation, but it may compromise the security or reusability of the wrap
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the flexible body provides both the wrapping surface and the securing mechanism, while the protrusions and recesses combine the activation and locking functions. This merging allows one-handed operation without compromising security, as all necessary functions are integrated into the single device rather than requiring separate components.
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 secure, one-handed wrapping and easy removal of cables and hoses without tools, maintaining coil shape and facilitating neat storage and reusability.
Implementation Method 1
The base is formed to allow the snap wrap to have a first unactuated position with a widthwise arc, and a second actuated position with a lengthwise curve
Implementation Method 2
The two connectors engage with each other when the snap wrap is in the actuated position to further hold the ends of the snap wrap together
Data Source
AI summary
A latching snap wrap for securing bundles such as a wrapped cable is provided. The snap wrap has a base layer formed of an elongate, resilient, flexible material that allows the snap wrap be capable of two different positions. The first is a non-actuated position such that it has a widthwise curve, and is approximately linear in a lengthwise direction; the second is an actuated position such that it is curved in a lengthwise direction and approximately flat in the widthwise direction. The snap wrap further has connectors at each end to allow it to be secured in the actuated position around the items it is intended to secure.