Hook-Based Holding Device for Single-Operator Soft Good Removal

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for removing theater drapes and stage curtains from pipes require multiple crew members to catch and untie the soft goods, which is inefficient as crew members cannot simultaneously hold and untie the goods.

Innovation Solution

A holding device with a semi-circular hook at one end and a slanted sidewall with a handle, allowing secure attachment to a pipe and efficient transfer of the soft good's weight, featuring a gusset for stress dispersion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple crew members are used to catch and untie soft goods from a pipe, then the soft goods can be securely held during removal, but the process becomes inefficient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity of holding soft goodsVSAvoidefficiency of removal process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device is divided into distinct functional segments: a first end for securing to the pipe, a second end for holding the soft good, and a slanted sidewall connecting them. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, enabling a single operator to efficiently manage both securing and holding operations simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device acts as an intermediary tool between the pipe and the soft good. It transfers the load from the soft good to the pipe while providing a secure holding point, eliminating the need for multiple crew members to directly handle the soft good during the removal process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If crew members spread out under the pipe catch the soft good, then the soft good can be caught during pipe lowering, but crew members cannot simultaneously untie the soft goods while holding them

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to catch soft goodVSAvoidability to simultaneously hold and untie

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device is designed to be self-sufficient, providing both the catching function and the holding function in a single integrated tool. The operator uses the device to catch the soft good during pipe lowering and then uses the same device to hold it while untying, eliminating the need for multiple operators working in coordination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Stability of the object's composition

If a semi-circular hook with slanted sidewall is used, then the weight distribution is improved and alignment is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveweight distribution and alignmentVSAvoidstructure of holding device

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device employs asymmetric geometry with a slanted sidewall that is not perpendicular to the pipe. This slant is specifically designed to align the center of the second end with the apex of the first end when positioned on the pipe, creating optimal weight distribution and alignment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS11187374B2Systems and methods associated with a holding device

Publication Date: 2021.11.30 TUCKER AUGUSTINE

AI summary

Systems and methods for a holding device. More specifically, embodiments are related to a holding device that is configured to secure a soft good.