Elastomeric Constrictor Spear Holder for Underwater Sling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional underwater spear slings require the operator to exert force to pull the elastic band while simultaneously holding the spear in position and aiming, which is difficult and prone to errors.

Innovation Solution

An elastomerically self-grasping spear holder with a housing composed of a front part, back part, and central support arms covered by an elastomeric constrictor that compresses to securely hold the spear in place, allowing the operator to focus on aiming and releasing the spear without manual support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operator holds the spear in the cup while pulling back the elastic band, then the spear can be positioned for firing, but it becomes difficult to simultaneously hold the spear, pull the band, and aim the device underwater

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of spear positioning and aimingVSAvoidreliability of spear retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric constrictor automatically grasps and holds the spear when it is inserted into the holder, without requiring manual intervention to maintain grip. The constrictor's elastic properties allow it to self-adjust and maintain secure holding of the spear throughout the drawing and aiming process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The elastomeric constrictor provides dynamic adaptation to the spear, maintaining consistent gripping force regardless of the holder's orientation or movement. This dynamic holding mechanism ensures reliable spear retention while allowing free movement for aiming and firing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a traditional cup holder is used, then the structure is simple, but the operator must manually hold the spear which is difficult underwater

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of holder structureVSAvoidease of spear holding
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric constrictor is implemented as a flexible band that wraps around the support arms to form a gripping structure. This flexible element automatically conforms to the spear's shape and provides secure holding without adding significant structural complexity to the overall device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The elastomeric constrictor acts as an intermediary between the rigid support arms and the spear, providing the necessary gripping force while allowing the simple overall structure to be maintained. The constrictor translates the structural framework into effective spear retention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 elastomeric constrictor maintains the spear's position during drawing and firing, enhancing accuracy and control by eliminating the need for manual spear holding, allowing for easier adjustment and maintaining a traditional archery stance for increased power and precision.

Implementation Method 1

an elastomeric constrictor which forms a compressed diameter between the support arms to hold the spear in position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9316458B2Elastomerically self-grasping spear holder for underwater sling
Publication Date: 2016.04.19 NICELY MICHAEL JOHN
  • US9316458B2 patent drawing
  • US9316458B2 patent drawing
  • US9316458B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An elastomerically self-grasping spear holder for an underwater sling. A cylindrical spear holder has a ring-shaped front part, a solid rear part and a center part containing only two support arms of limited circumferential extent. An elastomeric constrictor placed over the support arms has sides that have a smaller dimension than the diameter of the spear holder. When a spear is placed within the spear holder, the sides of the elastomeric constrictor grip the spear by compression so that the spear is held in position without being held by the operator. The rear part of the spear holder is solid, with a recess on the front surface to receive the rear end of the spear, and a through hole to receive the elastic band connected to a frame.