Elastomeric Fastener with Auto-Return Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fasteners lack the ability to auto-return and re-engage connectors once disconnected, requiring manual realignment for reconnection.
Innovation Solution
A fastener system utilizing an elastomeric member with adjustable elasticity to maintain connector alignment and facilitate auto-return, allowing for temporary separation and automatic re-proximity of strap ends, with engaging connectors such as male and female prongs, latching mechanisms, or magnetic couplings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are made separable for easy adjustment and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to auto-return and re-engage automatically is lost, requiring manual realignment
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric member is configured to automatically return the connectors to close proximity after separation without requiring user intervention. The elastic tension in the member self-generates the force needed to reposition the connectors, enabling the system to service itself by maintaining alignment readiness for re-engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric member transitions between stretched and relaxed states dynamically, allowing the connectors to move apart when needed while automatically returning to close proximity when released. This dynamic behavior enables both separation capability and auto-return function within the same component
2Length of moving object
If the elastomeric member has high elasticity to allow large separation distances, then ease of operation is improved, but the tension to maintain alignment during separation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The elasticity parameter of the elastomeric member is specifically selected to provide an optimal balance: sufficient elasticity to allow the required separation distance for adjustment and removal operations, while maintaining adequate tension to keep connectors in close proximity and aligned when in the disengaged state
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
Enables easy re-engagement of connectors by maintaining them in close proximity during disengagement, providing adjustable tension for various applications and loads, enhancing usability and precision in securing objects like backpack straps, shoes, and belts.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric member has sufficient elasticity to allow a user to separate the two strap ends by applying a separation force, while still providing enough tension to return the two strap ends to close proximity when the user removes the separation force
Implementation Method 2
The engaging connectors could also comprise a latching mechanism, a hook and loop engagement, or a magnetic coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener having two strap ends connected by an elastomeric member is described. The elastomeric member has sufficient elasticity to allow a user to increase the distance of separation between the two strap ends by applying a separation force, while providing enough tension to return the two strap ends to close proximity when the user releases the separation force. The elastomeric member may also have an adjustable elasticity to accommodate different applications with different load forces. The two strap ends may each be attached to two connectors.