Kite Quick-Release Assembly With Integrated Safety Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kite safety devices suffer from pin impacts during release, complex constructions, and the need for separate safety leashes that hinder use and can be improperly attached, leading to loss of kite control in emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A compact safety device with a quick-release mechanism and integrated safety line, featuring pivot levers and a modular design, allowing intuitive operation and eliminating the need for a separate safety leash, ensuring the kite remains connected to the surfer via the safety line after release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the pin is mounted to pivot downwards when opening the chicken loop, then the release mechanism is simple, but pin impact occurs which can injure the kitesurfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional pin pivoting direction: instead of pivoting downwards towards the surfer, the pin pivots sideways and/or upwards away from the surfer. This inversion eliminates pin impact injury while maintaining release mechanism simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful downward pin motion into a beneficial sideways/upward motion. The pin's pivoting action is redirected to move away from the surfer, transforming a harmful impact into a safe release mechanism.
2Device complexity
If the handle sleeve must be moved into open position for assembly, then the release mechanism is simple, but two hands are required which reduces ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The handle sleeve is pre-configured to remain in the open position during assembly, eliminating the need to manually move it. The spring force automatically maintains the open position, allowing one-handed assembly without requiring the user to hold the sleeve against spring pressure.
3Reliability
If the safety leash is long enough to not hinder the surfer during emergency, then kite control is maintained, but the safety leash dangles and obstructs the surfer under normal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the safety function from the separate safety leash and integrates it directly into the chicken loop assembly. The safety line is built into the device itself, eliminating the need for a separate dangling leash while maintaining emergency safety and kite control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the safety leash function with the chicken loop assembly by integrating the safety line directly into the device structure. This combination eliminates the separate safety leash that would otherwise dangle and obstruct the surfer during normal use.
4Device complexity
If beginners forget to attach the safety leash, then the device is simple, but kite control is lost in emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the safety function self-service by integrating it directly into the chicken loop assembly. The safety line is automatically part of the device structure, eliminating the need for users to separately attach a safety leash. The system ensures its own safety function is always active without requiring user attention or action.
Data Source
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AI summary
A safety device for a kite is disclosed which makes the use of a safety leash unnecessary.