Modular Bungee Bead Loop Structure for Easy Interconnection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bungee bead apparatuses lack versatility and modularity, failing to interconnect easily or serve multiple functions such as forming chains, bracelets, necklaces, or functioning as a sling-shot device.

Innovation Solution

A bungee bead apparatus comprising a bead and an elastic cord, where the bead is designed with rounded edges and a circumferential recess to securely hold the cord, allowing for easy interconnection and use with various accessories, including zipper handles and nap-sack connections, and capable of functioning as a sling-shot.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional bungee bead apparatus are used, then the structure is simple, but the versatility and modularity are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bungee bead apparatus is designed with a universal interface featuring a circumferential recess that can accommodate various cord configurations and connection types. This allows the same basic structure to serve multiple functions including forming chains, attaching to zipper handles, connecting nap-sack connections, and functioning as a sling-shot device, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus divides the bungee system into modular bead units that can be independently connected and disconnected. Each bead contains an integrated cord loop structure that can interface with other beads or external objects, enabling modular assembly into chains or standalone attachments, thus improving versatility while maintaining simple individual component design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If conventional bungee bead apparatus are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ease of interconnection is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of interconnectionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The cord loop and bead structure are merged into a single integrated component rather than being separate parts. The cord is formed into a loop that is permanently attached to the bead body, eliminating the need for separate attachment mechanisms and simplifying both manufacturing (single molding process) and interconnection (direct insertion into circumferential recess)

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the bead has sharp edges, then the manufacturing precision is easier to achieve, but the ergonomics and user comfort are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveergonomicsVSAvoidedge rounding precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The bead is designed with a circumferential recess and rounded contours instead of sharp edges. This curvature provides ergonomic comfort when handled or worn, and the rounded geometry can be achieved through standard molding techniques without requiring exceptional manufacturing precision, as the curvature is inherent to the molding process rather than a post-processing feature

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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

Enables the formation of modular chains, bracelets, and necklaces while providing an ergonomic and versatile tool that can be easily attached and detached from handles, and used as a sling-shot, enhancing user convenience and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a bungee-type cord... The first end and the second end of the elastic cord are preferably fixedly secured to the first end of the bead

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11497282B2Bungee bead apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 FAYENA DAVID
  • US11497282B2 patent drawing
  • US11497282B2 patent drawing
  • US11497282B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bungee bead apparatus includes a bead and elastic cord with first and second ends fixedly secured in proximity to, or in contact with, each other at one end of the bead to form a loop. A circumferential recess formed between first and second sides of the bead extends from the bead's first end to its second end, having a cross-sectional height and width to receive the loop of the elastic cord therethrough. The orifice extends at an acute angle, positioned midway between the bead's first and second sides, and begins at the bead's first end in proximity to the first side, and transects the circumferential recess at its second end. The circumferential recess is annular with a depth of about one-half the diameter of the cylindrical elastic cord to receive only a portion therein. The recess and orifice permit two (or more) such apparatus to be linked together.