Cam Buckle Strap Tool for Safe Object Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a risk of hand injury when attempting to hold objects in hazardous positions, such as spikes or wrenches, as the hand may accidentally be struck by a hammer during operations like striking.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising an elongate shaft, a housing with a cam buckle and flexible strap system that allows for secure holding of objects without direct hand contact, using a cam buckle mechanism to tighten a loop around the object, preventing accidental release and allowing safe manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a person uses their hand to directly hold an object in a desired position, then the object can be held securely, but the hand is at risk of being accidentally struck by a hammer or other tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device consisting of an elongate shaft with a loop structure that positions the object at a safe distance from the user's hand. The shaft acts as a mediator between the user's gripping hand and the object being held, allowing the user to maintain secure control while keeping the hand in a safe zone away from potential impact areas.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a tool is designed to hold an object at a safe distance, then hand safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like shafts, loops, and securing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: an elongate shaft for positioning, a loop structure for securing the object, and a cam buckle mechanism for adjustable fastening. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity. The modular nature enables easy assembly and disassembly, reducing the perceived complexity despite the multiple parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam buckle mechanism provides self-service functionality by allowing the user to easily adjust and secure the loop around the object without requiring additional tools or complex operations. The cam lever mechanism automatically locks when engaged, providing secure holding without manual intervention beyond the initial adjustment, thereby simplifying the overall device operation.
3Reliability
If a secure holding mechanism is used to prevent accidental release, then object control is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to the need to manipulate release buttons or levers
Solution Approach 1:
The cam buckle mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's intent to secure/release the object and the actual locking/unlocking action. The lever provides a mechanical advantage that allows easy one-handed operation, mediating between the simple user action and the secure mechanical engagement. This intermediary mechanism translates a simple lever motion into reliable locking or releasing of the loop.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an elongate shaft having a first passageway extending therethrough, a housing secured to the shaft, a cam buckle, and a flexible strap extending through the shaft and housing. The housing includes a buckle chamber, a chamber window, and a second passageway extending through the buckle chamber into communication with the first passageway. The cam buckle is secured within the buckle chamber, wherein the cam buckle includes a frame and a cam member pivotably secured to the frame. The cam member includes a gripping surface and a release button accessible through the chamber window. The strap includes a first end secured to a rigid member within the shaft or housing and an accessible second end. The strap forms a loop adjacent a distal end of the shaft for receiving an object, wherein pulling the strap causes the loop to tighten around the object.