Flexible Cargo Strap Assembly for Jam-Free Tensioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current tie-down systems for securing cargo during transportation, such as ratcheting devices and bungee cords, are prone to jamming, over-tensioning, and lack reliable tension maintenance, leading to damaged cargo and high costs due to complex mechanical connections.

Innovation Solution

A cargo strap tightening device featuring a buckle assembly with a high-tension spring, hook and loop connecting points, shrink tubes for heat-activated fastening, and a protective sleeve, which allows for flexible and expandable tensioning without ratcheting mechanisms, enabling easy adjustment and secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If ratcheting devices are used to achieve tension, then tension is achieved, but the device is prone to jamming and over-tensioning

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovetensionVSAvoidprone to jamming and over-tensioning

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the ratcheting mechanism entirely from the cargo strap system, replacing it with a simple elastic bungee cord that naturally provides tension through its elastic properties, eliminating the jamming and over-tensioning problems associated with ratchets

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The bungee cord automatically maintains tension through its elastic recovery properties, requiring no manual operation or mechanical components to regulate force, thus eliminating reliability issues with complex mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If flexible cord type straps (bungee) are used, then flexibility is provided, but they are dangerous and lack proper tension

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidproper tension

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the flexible bungee cord with a rigid strap webbing and plastic buckle assembly, creating a composite system that provides both the flexibility of the elastic portion and the structural integrity needed to maintain proper tension and safe attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Force

If lashing straps or cam-buckle pull straps are used, then tensioning is achieved, but they lack the ability to expand and flex, resulting in loss of tension if cargo shifts

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovetensionVSAvoidability to expand and flex

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a dynamic elastic bungee cord portion that can automatically expand and contract in response to cargo movement, maintaining constant tension without requiring rigid mechanical components that cannot adapt to shifting loads

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Strength

If reliable mechanical connections are used in cargo straps with flexible portion, then connection strength is improved, but the retail cost becomes high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidretail cost

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses inexpensive plastic injection-molded components for the buckle assembly and connector pieces, replacing expensive metal mechanical connections with durable but lower-cost plastic parts that achieve sufficient strength for cargo securing applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

The solution provides a safe, simple, and cost-effective means to secure cargo by eliminating the need for complex mechanical connections, reducing the risk of damage during transport and offering a reliable method for tensioning and releasing the strap.

Implementation Method 1

The at least two shrink tubes are used to fasten the ends of the spring and the spring limiter when heat is applied on the shrink tubes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal contraction: Thermal Contraction

Data Source

PatentUS11794628B1Device and method for providing a flexible strap for tightening cargo

Publication Date: 2023.10.24 SEVENTEEN SOLUTIONS LLC D B A TORKSTRAP

AI summary

Embodiments herein illustrate a cargo strap tightening device. The cargo strap tightening device includes a buckle assembly that comprises a strap webbing. The cargo strap tightening device includes a spring having high tension. Each end of the spring being coupled to the buckle assembly. Further the cargo strap tightening device includes at least two hook and loop connecting points and at least two shrink tubes to fasten the buckle assembly. The at least two shrink tubes are used to fasten the ends of the spring and the strap webbing when heat is applied on the shrink tubes. Furthermore, the cargo strap tightening device includes a protective sleeve to cover the spring.