Deployable Slackline Tensioning for In-Use Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional slacklines are statically fixed and lack the ability to adjust height or tension dynamically, requiring manual adjustments that cannot be performed during use, limiting their versatility and practicality in performances and other applications.
Innovation Solution
A deployable slackline system with a tensioning assembly and termination assembly, controlled by actuators and circuitry, allows for automatic adjustment of height and tension, enabling synchronized movement of the slackline ends to maintain nominal tension and accommodate dynamic user loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional slacklines are statically fixed to anchor points, then the structure is simple and stable, but the height and tension cannot be adjusted dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static slackline system into a dynamic one where the height of anchor points can be adjusted during use. The tensioning assembly includes a motorized spool that can wind or unwind the slackline to change height, and a ratchet mechanism that maintains tension dynamically. This allows the system to adapt to different performance requirements while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of slackline webbing and ratchets is used, then the device complexity is low, but adjustments cannot be performed during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through an automated tensioning system where a motorized spool and ratchet mechanism automatically maintain nominal tension on the slackline during height adjustments. The system monitors slackline tension and automatically winds or unwinds the spool to compensate for tension changes, eliminating the need for manual intervention while preserving ease of operation. The control system manages the complexity internally, allowing users to simply command height changes without worrying about tension maintenance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the slackline height is changed during use, then the adaptability increases, but the tension on the slackline becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback through a control system that continuously monitors the tension in the slackline and adjusts the spool position accordingly. When the height is changed during use, sensors detect the tension deviation from the nominal value, and the control system commands the motorized spool to wind or unwind the slackline to restore the correct tension. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that dynamic height adjustments do not compromise slackline tension stability, maintaining both adaptability and compositional stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Deployable slackline systems are disclosed which can support a slackline at a desired height and nominal tension. The disclosed systems may maintain one or more slacklines and can adjust height and tension of individual slacklines while the slacklines are in use. The disclosed slackline systems are stowable; tensioning and termination assemblies of the slackline system can each fold into a compact housing having a height substantially less than a vertical range of motion of the slackline. The disclosed slackline systems can be implemented in aquatic or non-aquatic performance environments such as on cruise ships or other hospitality settings.