Trampoline Cord Hook Structure for Symmetrical Cord Ring Loading

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing securing systems for trampolines, particularly those using elastic cord rings, suffer from asymmetrical loading due to varying elastic characteristics along the cord ring, leading to premature wear and undesirable oscillation characteristics during use.

Innovation Solution

A cord hook design with a fixing device that secures the connecting points of the cord ring within receiving spaces, preventing slippage and ensuring even tension distribution across the cord ring, thereby maintaining symmetrical loading and improving oscillation characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the cord ring is used without a fixing device to hold the connecting point, then the device complexity is reduced, but the cord ring experiences asymmetrical loading leading to premature wear and reduced reliability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice life of trampolineVSAvoidstructure of cord hook
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cord hook is divided into distinct functional segments: a receiving portion for mounting cord ring ends, a securing portion for attaching to the jump mat, and a transition portion connecting them. The fixing device is further segmented into multiple fixing elements that can be independently positioned within the receiving space to hold the cord ring connecting point, allowing each segment to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with others.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the connecting point of the cord ring is not fixed in position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the tension distribution becomes asymmetrical causing premature wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevenness of tension distributionVSAvoidinstallation of cord ring
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device acts as an intermediary element between the cord ring connecting point and the receiving space. It provides a mechanical interface that translates the mounting action into a fixed position, ensuring the connecting point is held centrally without requiring complex alignment procedures. The fixing elements can be简单地 engaged during installation while providing reliable position holding during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If a fixing device is added to the cord hook, then the precision of tension distribution is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning of connecting pointVSAvoidproduction of cord hook
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing elements are designed as flexible or elastomeric components that can be molded or formed into the required shape. These flexible fixing elements can be integrated into the cord hook during manufacturing through processes like injection molding or adhesive bonding, providing precise positioning capability without requiring complex metal machining or assembly steps. The flexibility of these elements also allows for tolerance compensation during manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 extends the service life of the trampoline by evenly distributing tension across the cord ring, enhancing the durability and oscillation performance of the trampoline.

Implementation Method 1

a cord ring (7), in particular an elastic cord ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10989275B2Cord hook and covering system for a trampoline
Publication Date: 2021.04.27 ANGEHRN AG UMFORMTECHN
  • US10989275B2 patent drawing
  • US10989275B2 patent drawing
  • US10989275B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cord hook is shown for a cord ring of a trampoline covering, which cord ring has at least one connection point. The cord hook includes a distal receiving section and a proximal securing section for securing to a jump mat. The receiving section and the securing section are connected by a transition section. At least one receiving space is formed for mounting a first end and a second end of the cord ring. The cord hook also includes a fastening device.