Post Strap Adapter With Retaining Recess for Tool-Free Barrier Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing strapping systems for barriers and gates are complex to install and remove, often requiring additional fixtures and tools, and do not easily accommodate changing requirements in offices or factories.

Innovation Solution

A strapping apparatus comprising a post adapter with a recess and a strap that can be removably coupled to the adapter, featuring a retaining element and a buckle or latch system for secure attachment without tools, allowing easy mounting and removal of articles like barriers to posts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fixtures and separate mounting components are used to attach barriers to posts, then the attachment can be secure, but the installation and removal process becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the post adapter, retaining element, and strap into a single integrated strapping apparatus. The post adapter includes an integrated retaining element that works with the strap to secure the barrier, eliminating the need for separate fixtures and multiple components. This merging reduces installation complexity while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The strapping apparatus is designed to be self-installing without requiring additional tools or fixtures. The strap can be manually wrapped around the post and secured by the retaining element in the post adapter, allowing users to install and remove barriers easily without specialized equipment or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If permanent fixtures are used to fix barriers to posts, then the barriers remain securely in place, but they cannot be easily removed or reconfigured when requirements change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarrier stabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The strapping apparatus transitions from a static permanent fixture to a dynamic removable system. The strap can be easily detached from the retaining element, allowing the barrier to be removed or repositioned when needs change, while still providing stable attachment during use. This dynamic design enables both secure mounting and easy reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The post adapter with retaining element can accommodate different strap configurations and barrier types. The universal design allows the same mounting mechanism to be used for various barrier configurations and locations, providing both stable attachment and flexibility for reconfiguration when requirements change.

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

3Reliability

If multiple separate fixtures and parts are used for mounting barriers, then the attachment can be robust, but the system complexity increases and parts may be lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting robustnessVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate fixtures into a single integrated post adapter assembly that includes the retaining element. This reduces the total number of components from multiple separate fixtures to one unified device, simplifying the system while maintaining robust mounting capability through the integrated strap and retaining element mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4073320B1Strapping apparatus
Publication Date: 2023.08.30 THREE SMITH GRP LTD
  • EP4073320B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4073320B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4073320B1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

There is provided a strapping apparatus for coupling an article to a post, the apparatus comprising a post adapter comprising a first side configured to engage with said post and a second side comprising a recess; a retaining element at least partially located in the recess of the post adapter; and a strap configured to extend around said post, the strap comprising: a first end configured to be removably coupled to post adapter; and a second end configured to be received in the retaining element.