Figure-8 Strap Load Securing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for securing loads to platforms require complex latching mechanisms and multiple straps, making them cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a strap secured into a loop with attachment members featuring support arms, allowing for simple attachment and secure fastening by forming a figure-eight configuration, which can be easily wrapped around loads and cinched using an attachment member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current devices use complex latching mechanisms and multiple straps, then load security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a strap component for wrapping around the load, and a separate attachment member with latching mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the strap provides simple wrapping while the attachment member provides secure latching, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment member acts as an intermediary between the strap and the load, providing the complex latching function while keeping the strap itself simple. This mediator approach allows the strap to remain a simple flexible element while the attachment member handles the complexity of secure fastening through its latching mechanism.
2Reliability
If current devices use multiple straps, then load security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple strap functions are merged into a single integrated device. The strap and attachment member work together as one unit, combining the wrapping function of the strap with the latching function of the attachment member. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate straps while maintaining load security and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment member serves multiple functions: it anchors the strap ends, provides the latching mechanism for security, and acts as the interface for fastening to the load. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate components into a single universal device that is both secure and easy to operate.
3Ease of operation
If a single strap is used, then ease of operation is improved, but load security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static single strap to a dynamic system where the strap can be easily manipulated and wrapped, while the attachment member provides dynamic latching action. The latching mechanism allows the device to adapt to different load configurations while maintaining security, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and load security.
Data Source
AI summary
A device configured to secure a load to a supporting structure and a method of using the device to secure the load to the supporting structure are provided. The device includes a strap fixed onto itself so as to form a first loop and a pair of free ends. An attachment member includes a body with a pair of support arms disposed on opposite ends of the body. Each of the pair of free ends of the strap are attached to a corresponding support arm, laterally spacing the free ends from each other, giving the device a generally figure 8 dimension. The strap is wrapped around the load and the attachment member is pulled through the first loop and the strap is cinched by pulling on the attachment member. The attachment member is then secured to the supporting structure.