Dynamic Traction Cleat with Segmented Hub and Co-Molded Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dynamic traction cleats face limitations in extending dynamic traction elements from the hub periphery, leading to restricted flexure and potential detachment of components, and require a continuous circular hub for the FAST TWIST locking mechanism, which is costly and material-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A cleat design featuring a hub with cut-out areas allowing dynamic traction elements to extend inboard, integrated with a two-shot molding process using different polymers for the hub and traction elements, enabling greater flexure and improved locking with fewer locking posts, and a co-molding process to create a one-piece unitary structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dynamic traction elements extend from the periphery of the circular hub, then the cleat structure is simple and continuous, but the downward extension of traction elements is restricted and component detachment may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is segmented by introducing cut-out areas that divide the continuous circular hub into sections. This segmentation allows the dynamic traction elements to extend inboard from the hub periphery through the cut-outs, enabling greater downward extension while maintaining structural integrity and preventing component detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cut-out areas create vertical pathways through the hub thickness, adding a dimensional pathway that allows traction elements to extend further downward without compromising the horizontal structural continuity of the hub. This dimensional change enables the traction elements to achieve greater extension while remaining securely anchored.
2Ease of manufacture
If a continuous circular hub is used for the FAST TWIST locking mechanism, then the locking structure is simple, but material usage is excessive and cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous circular hub is segmented by removing material to create cut-out areas. This segmentation reduces material usage and cost while maintaining the structural integrity needed for the FAST TWIST locking mechanism, as the cut-outs are strategically positioned to preserve locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub structure is modified locally by introducing cut-outs only in specific areas where they do not interfere with the locking mechanism. This allows the majority of the hub to maintain its continuous circular structure for reliable locking, while selectively removing material to reduce overall material usage and cost.
3Reliability
If dynamic traction elements are molded separately and attached to the hub, then component detachment is possible, but manufacturing flexibility is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The hub and dynamic traction elements are merged into a single integral component through co-molding. The cut-out areas in the hub provide pathways for the traction elements to extend through, creating a unified structure that eliminates the risk of component detachment while reducing the number of separate parts to two co-molded components.
Solution Approach 2:
The co-molding process uses different polymer materials for the hub and traction elements, creating a composite structure. This allows the hub to be made from a harder material suitable for locking mechanisms while the traction elements are made from a softer, more resilient material, combining the advantages of different materials in a single integrated component.
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
Enhances traction by allowing dynamic elements to flex independently and extend further, improving locking efficiency and reducing material usage while preventing component detachment, resulting in a more effective and durable cleat configuration.
Implementation Method 1
a two-shot molding process using different polymers for the hub and traction elements, enabling greater flexure and improved locking with fewer locking posts
Implementation Method 2
allowing dynamic elements to flex independently and extend further
Implementation Method 3
a co-molding process to create a one-piece unitary structure
Data Source
AI summary
A single component traction cleat of co-molded hub and dynamic traction portions includes dynamic traction elements flexible about proximal ends secured inboard of and below a hub periphery having cut-outs through which the elements move when flexed. The hub has a cross-like configuration with spoke-like legs from which static traction elements depend. Locking posts located on the hub spoke legs include a recess between two symmetrical interference sections for receiving a locking tooth on a mating receptacle.