Locking Tie Head With Flexible L-Shaped Pawls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bundling tie systems face limitations such as distortion and failure under high load conditions due to design flaws in locking devices, particularly the T-shaped design with a beveled knife-edge, which can cut through or slide along the strap material, leading to premature failure.
Innovation Solution
A bundling system with a lightweight locking tie head featuring independent flexible L-shaped pawls with teeth for secure engagement, anchored in transverse pawl cavities that allow flexural movement during strap insertion and locking, preventing withdrawal, and utilizing breakaway pins for additional anchoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a T-shaped locking device with beveled knife-edge is used, then engagement with strap is improved, but the device distorts and fails under heavier loads
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into two separate components: a T-shaped locking bar with knife-edge for engagement and a separate stop bar with blunt end. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the knife-edge penetrates the strap while the blunt stop prevents excessive insertion, eliminating the distortion and failure issues of integrated designs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a separate stop bar as an intermediary element that works in conjunction with the locking bar. The stop bar's blunt end acts as a mediator that limits the penetration depth of the knife-edge into the strap, preventing the cutting through issue while maintaining secure engagement
2Ease of operation
If a beveled knife-edge is used for strap engagement, then insertion is facilitated, but the strap is cut through under heavier loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a blunt stop wall on the locking device that preemptively prevents the knife-edge from cutting through the strap. The stop wall limits the maximum insertion depth before engagement, counteracting the potential harmful effect of the sharp knife-edge cutting the strap under load
3Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece locking device is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but distortion and failure occur under high load
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into separate functional components (locking bar and stop bar) that can be manufactured independently using simple processes, then assembled together. This maintains manufacturing simplicity while eliminating the structural distortion and failure issues inherent in integrated one-piece designs under high load conditions
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 provides superior locking engagement with reduced risk of strap damage, enhanced reliability, and improved longevity under high stress conditions, ensuring secure bundling with minimal slippage.
Implementation Method 1
first and second independent flexible L-shaped pawls anchored in the first and second transverse pawl cavity... allowing flexural movement of the engagement end of the pawl during the insertion of the planar strap and then locking engagement to prevent withdrawal
Data Source
AI summary
A bundling system with improved locking tie head comprising a smooth planar strap and a locking head with two flexible independent L-shaped pawls. One end of the pawl is anchored in the locking head. The locking head has two transverse pawl cavities allowing flexural movement of the pawl during insertion of the planar strap and locking engagement to prevent withdrawal of the strap.