Elastic Loop Article Retainer with Hook and Nested Loops

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices fail to securely hold articles of varying shapes and sizes at a stationary location or during transport, while being compact, easy to deploy, and adjustable for different forms and quick to release.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising an elongated loop, a hook, and two elastic loops that form loop-to-loop connections to securely grip articles, allowing adjustment and easy release, with stop mechanisms for size adjustment and frictional retention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a device uses multiple elastic loops and hook connections to securely hold articles, then the reliability of article retention is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearticle retention securityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements loop-to-loop connections where the second elastic loop connects to the first elastic loop, and the third elastic loop connects to the first elastic loop. This nesting approach allows multiple retention points to be integrated into a compact structure, improving article retention security while minimizing the increase in device complexity by sharing common components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The first elastic loop serves multiple functions: it forms the main retaining loop, provides connection points for both the second and third elastic loops, and acts as the primary attachment point for the hook. This multi-functionality improves reliability through multiple retention paths while avoiding the need for separate dedicated components for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the device is designed to be compact and easy to store, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to different article sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployability and storageVSAvoidarticle size accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs elastic loops that can dynamically adjust their length and configuration. The elastic material allows the loops to stretch and conform to articles of varying sizes while maintaining a compact form when not in use. This dynamic property enables the device to adapt to different article dimensions without requiring multiple fixed-size components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into separate modular components: the first elastic loop, the second elastic loop, the third elastic loop, and the hook. These segmented components can be independently configured and adjusted to accommodate different article sizes and shapes, while the overall device remains compact and easy to deploy or store when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the device uses loop-to-loop connections for flexibility, then the adaptability to different shapes is improved, but the strength of connection may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshape accommodationVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The loop-to-loop connections are implemented by nesting the second and third elastic loops within the structure of the first elastic loop. This nesting creates multiple friction-based contact points and interlocking geometries that significantly enhance the connection strength while preserving the flexibility and adaptability needed to accommodate different article shapes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 device effectively secures articles of different shapes and sizes, providing stability during transport and easy deployment, while allowing quick detachment and accommodating various forms, enhancing usability and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic second loop, and an elastic third loop

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

frictional retention

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10294968B2Article retaining device and method of attachment
Publication Date: 2019.05.21 HOEY THOMAS JOSEPH
  • US10294968B2 patent drawing
  • US10294968B2 patent drawing
  • US10294968B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An article retaining device having a first loop that can be elongated, a hook, an elastic second loop, and an elastic third loop. The hook joined to the first loop. The elastic second loop is joined to the first loop and to the hook. The elastic third loop joined to the first loop. The first, second, and third loops may be arranged around an article.