Child Assist Handrail Tension Strap Clamping Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child handrail attachment systems are aesthetically unappealing, pose safety hazards due to loose straps, and lack reliable tensioning mechanisms, leading to inadequate grip and potential damage to main handrails.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a shorter, high-tensile strength tension strap connected to the upper coupling member via two points, combined with a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device, which provides accurate and adjustable clamping force, and an anti-slip layer for improved grip without damaging the main handrail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a long tension strap is used to surround both handrails and the spacer member, then the strap can be applied all around the elements, but the total elongation in the strap becomes large and the mounting reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tension strap is segmented into two separate straps instead of one long strap. Each strap connects only the upper coupling member to the main handrail, reducing the length of each individual strap and minimizing total elongation while maintaining adaptability through the two-strap configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The upper coupling member acts as an intermediary element that connects the spacer member to the main handrail through the tension straps. This intermediary structure allows the straps to be shorter and more reliable while still achieving the necessary connection and adaptability
2Ease of manufacture
If cable ties are used to attach the upper coupling member to the main handrail, then the attachment is simple, but the cable ties create sharp edges that hinder sliding motion and may damage the handrail
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful cable tie element is extracted and replaced with a tension strap system. The cable ties that create sharp edges and obstructions are removed entirely, and their function is taken over by the fabric straps with rounded edges that do not hinder sliding motion or damage the handrail
Solution Approach 2:
The material parameters of the attachment element are changed from rigid plastic cable ties to flexible fabric straps with rounded edges. This parameter change eliminates the sharp edges that cause sliding obstruction and handrail damage while maintaining the attachment function
3Strength
If cable ties are used for attachment, then the connection is secure, but the smooth surface of cable ties allows rotation and shift that can damage the handrail coating
Solution Approach 1:
The tension straps are designed with different local qualities: the inner surface that contacts the handrail has increased friction properties to prevent rotation and shift, while the outer surface maintains the necessary strength for secure attachment. This local quality differentiation solves both the strength requirement and the handrail protection requirement
4Reliability
If the tension strap is made shorter and connected to the upper coupling member by two points, then the elongation is reduced and mounting reliability improves, but the strap tensioning mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tension strap system is designed to be self-tensing through the natural tension applied when the auxiliary handrail is installed. The two-point connection to the upper coupling member creates inherent tension that secures the attachment without requiring complex external tensioning mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity while improving reliability
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 solution offers a secure, aesthetically improved, and reliable attachment system that ensures a stable grip on the main handrail, preventing rotation and shift, while allowing for easy tension adjustment and minimizing risk of injury or damage.
Implementation Method 1
the upper coupling member comprises a tension strap, which is connected with the upper coupling member by two connection points, and which is arranged for clamping the upper coupling member against the main handrail
Implementation Method 2
a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device is provided, arranged for tightening the tension strap such, that the upper coupling member is forcibly clamped against the main handrail
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (1) having an auxiliary handrail (2) under an existing main handrail (3) and bridge members (4) each comprising : a spacer member (5), an upper coupling member (6) and a lower coupling member (7). The upper coupling member comprises a tension strap (8), which by means of two connection points (9, 10) is fastened to the upper coupling member, and which is arranged for clamping the upper coupling member against the main handrail. Furthermore a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device is provided, for example a screw-tensioning member, whereby the upper coupling member is forcibly and accurately adjustably clamped against the main handrail.