Elastic Strap Restraint for Exercise Equipment Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjusting the length of straps in resistance exercise devices can be difficult and often results in excess length that is distracting or dangerous, as existing technologies lack efficient mechanisms for easy adjustment and safe stowage.
Innovation Solution
A strap restraint system featuring a pair of flexible inelastic elements with adjustable fastening and an elastic band to securely manage the strap end, allowing for easy length adjustment and safe storage of excess length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If straps of variable length are provided to allow user adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in adjusting strap length
Solution Approach 1:
A pull tab is introduced as an intermediary element attached to the strap end, providing a convenient gripping point for users to easily adjust the strap length through the adjustment mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The strap restraint mechanism is designed to be self-regulating, where the elastic band automatically engages with the strap end and pull tab, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment procedures
2Adaptability or versatility
If straps of variable length are provided to allow user adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to excess length being distracting or dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The excess strap length is extracted and secured separately using a restraint mechanism consisting of an elastic band and flexible elements, isolating the potentially hazardous loose end from the user's path
Solution Approach 2:
The strap end is nested within the restraint mechanism, where the pull tab is inserted through the elastic band and flexible elements create a nested configuration that contains the excess length
3Reliability
If a strap restraint mechanism is added to manage excess length, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint mechanism uses flexible elements including an elastic band and flexible straps instead of rigid components, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining safety functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic modulus and dimensions of the elastic band are optimized to provide adequate restraint force without requiring complex mechanical structures, achieving safety through material property selection rather than structural complexity
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 strap restraint system facilitates easy and safe adjustment of strap length, preventing distractions and hazards by providing a secure and adjustable mechanism for managing excess strap length, enhancing user safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic band attached to the end, wherein the band is configured to encircle the strap and surround the pair of flexible elements
Data Source
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AI summary
A strap restraint for a device having adjustable straps is disclosed. In one embodiment, a strap restraint for an adjustable device is provided. The device has a strap with an end that doubles back through a length-adjustment mechanism and over the strap. The strap restraint includes an elastic band attached to the end, where the band encircles the strap, and a pair of flexible inelastic fastening elements attached to the end. The strap restraining permits the user to select the force with which the strap restraint holds the end against the strap.