Interlocking Strap and Buckle for Secure Object Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for handling and suspending objects are either structurally and functionally complex or lack simplicity, requiring more tools, labor, and time in production.
Innovation Solution
A simple and durable implement comprising an elongated strap with interlocking teeth and grooves, and a buckle that requires minimal manual effort for secure attachment and detachment, made from semi-rigid and rigid plastic materials respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing solutions for handling and suspending objects are used, then the objects can be tied up and suspended, but the structures become complicated both structurally and functionally
Solution Approach 1:
The implement is divided into two separate components: an elongated strap with teeth and grooves, and a buckle with a cavity. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in structure while together they provide secure attachment through the interlocking teeth-groove mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The teeth and grooves act as an intermediary mechanism between the strap and buckle. The grooves in the strap engage with corresponding features in the buckle to provide secure attachment without requiring complex structural designs in either component.
2Reliability
If existing solutions are used, then attachment functionality is achieved, but production requires more tools, labor and time
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the implement into separate strap and buckle components allows for independent manufacturing of each part using simple molding processes. The teeth and grooves can be formed directly during molding, eliminating the need for additional assembly tools or complex manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The teeth are designed with specific geometric parameters (triangular cross-section, equal spacing, transverse orientation) that can be directly formed during molding. This parameter optimization allows for simple, tool-free production while ensuring reliable attachment functionality.
3Reliability
If existing solutions are used, then objects can be suspended, but manual effort is required for attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle automatically engages with the strap through its cavity and ridge structure. When the strap is inserted, the teeth automatically engage with the grooves, and the ridge on the buckle engages with the teeth to lock the connection without requiring manual effort for attachment or detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking teeth and grooves serve as a self-service mechanism that automatically secures the connection. The geometric design of the teeth and grooves ensures automatic engagement and locking when the buckle and strap are brought together, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The implement includes an elongated strap and a buckle intended to interlock with the elongated strap that includes a) first end and a second end which incorporates a suspending fixture, and b) an inner and outer sides. The elongated strap incorporates in inner side a plurality of teeth alternating with a plurality of grooves. The plurality of teeth extends from the first end up to a first no teeth zone located in proximity of the second end. A group of several teeth follows after the first no teeth zone. When wrapping the elongated strap, the buckle is kept in an indented retaining portion of the elongated strap with its several teeth projecting upwardly. After an adjustment of the elongated strap is completed, the buckle is so displaced that the several teeth penetrate corresponding grooves of the multiplicity of teeth.