Flexible Strap Connector With Ratchet Teeth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flexible connectors and fasteners, such as zip ties and cable ties, lack efficient mechanisms to securely connect objects of varying sizes and shapes without causing chafing or losing tension over time.

Innovation Solution

A flexible connector design featuring a strap with ratchet teeth and locking slots, or hook/loop fasteners, that allows for secure connection by forming loops around objects, maintaining tension through ratchet engagement or hook/loop interaction, preventing loop expansion and ensuring consistent contact without edge contact.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a flexible connector uses a simple strap design without locking mechanisms, then it is easy to manufacture and operate, but it cannot maintain tension or securely connect objects over time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetension maintenanceVSAvoidlocking mechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ratchet teeth are designed to automatically engage with the strap in a one-way locking mechanism. When tension is applied, the ratchet teeth lock into place and maintain tension without requiring active control or additional power sources. The connector serves itself by using the applied tension to activate and maintain the locking state.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex active locking systems with a passive mechanical ratchet mechanism. The ratchet teeth and pawl system provides automatic one-way locking through simple mechanical interaction, eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or complex control systems while maintaining reliable tension.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a flexible connector uses a tight fit to securely connect objects, then connection reliability improves, but it causes chafing and damage to the objects

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidchafing and edge contact

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector strap features differentiated surface qualities: smooth broad sides that contact the objects to distribute pressure and prevent chafing, and textured or toothed edges that provide grip and prevent slippage. This local differentiation of surface properties allows the connector to maintain secure connection while protecting the connected objects from damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design uses curved or rounded edges and broad contact surfaces instead of sharp angles or narrow edges. The smooth broad sides of the strap distribute compressive forces over larger areas, reducing pressure concentration and preventing chafing on the connected objects while maintaining connection security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Reliability

If a flexible connector uses a fixed loop size to maintain tension, then tension stability improves, but it cannot adapt to objects of varying sizes and shapes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetension stabilityVSAvoidaccommodation of varying sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connector incorporates adjustable loop configurations through the ratchet mechanism that allows the strap length to be dynamically adjusted. The loop size can be changed by releasing and re-engaging the ratchet at different positions, enabling the same connector to adapt to various object sizes and shapes while maintaining stable tension once locked in place.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed with universal applicability through its adjustable ratchet mechanism and flexible strap, allowing it to connect objects of varying sizes and shapes. The same connector can be configured for different applications by adjusting the loop size, making it a multi-functional device that maintains tension stability across diverse use cases.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Strength

If a flexible connector uses edge contact to secure objects, then connection strength improves, but it causes chafing and wear on the objects

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidchafing and wear

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUS11097878B2Flexible connector

Publication Date: 2021.08.24 DIETRICH ROLF

AI summary

A flexible strap connector is disclosed. The connector comprises a strap having a buckle head at one end and a tongue at the opposite end. Ratchet teeth extend on one side of the strap and the ratchet teeth cooperate with the buckle head to permit movement of the strap in a first direction and to prevent movement of the strap in a second direction. A second slot is formed in the strap itself and it is a non-locking slot. When the strap is in the second slot, the strap is free to move further into the slot and free to be withdrawn from the slot. Embodiments where the buckle head and ratchet teeth are replaced with hook and loop fasteners are also disclosed.