Carrying device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrying devices face challenges in efficiently moving handles between storage and carrying positions, particularly when a large amount of folding is required, leading to space constraints and potential overstretching of elastic elements, which affects usability and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
The integration of pulley-shaped elements connected to both the non-elastic strap and elastic element allows for a longer distance of strap movement with reduced force, preventing overstretching and providing a stable carrying experience by distributing the weight solely on the non-elastic strap, while maintaining a compact retracted position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a relatively long extension of the elastic element is used to achieve a relatively large amount of folding of the flexible non-elastic strap, then the folding amount is improved, but the space required in or around the carrying device increases
Solution Approach 1:
A pulley system is introduced as an intermediary mechanical element between the elastic band and the non-elastic strap. The pulley converts the linear motion of the elastic band into a mechanical advantage system, allowing a shorter elastic band extension to achieve the same strap folding distance through rotational leverage and mechanical multiplication of force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static elastic band-strap connection to a dynamic pulley-based mechanism. The pulley allows the elastic band to exert force through rotational motion, enabling the same folding effect with reduced linear extension distance. The dynamic interaction between the pulley wheel and the elastic band creates a more space-efficient retraction system.
2Force
If the elastic element is extended over a long distance to retract the handle, then the retraction force is improved, but the elastic element may be overstretched which reduces its lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The pulley acts as a mechanical intermediary that distributes and multiplies the retraction force. Instead of the elastic band directly pulling the strap over a long distance, the pulley system divides the retraction action into rotational segments, reducing peak stress on the elastic material while maintaining effective retraction force.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulley system provides mechanical advantage, allowing the elastic band to exert sufficient retraction force with a shorter, less extreme extension. This partial action approach achieves the necessary retraction effect without over-extending the elastic element, thereby preserving its lifespan and preventing material fatigue.
3Ease of operation
If the handle is moved easily between retracted and carrying positions over long distances, then the ease of operation is improved, but the force required to control the movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pulley mechanism transforms the linear pulling motion into a rotational system with mechanical advantage. As the user pulls the handle, the pulley rotates, distributing the control force across a larger arc and reducing the instantaneous force required. This dynamic conversion makes long-distance handle movement easier to control.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulley's circular geometry provides a curved path for the elastic band and strap interaction. This curvature allows the system to convert linear pulling force into rotational motion, creating a more gradual and controllable movement experience over long distances, reducing the peak force needed by the user.
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
This design enables easy and efficient movement of handles over any predetermined length, prevents overstretching of the elastic element, and provides a safe and stable carrying experience similar to non-elastic straps, with improved usability and extended lifespan of the elastic component.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic element coupled to the flexible, non-elastic strap and configured to bias the flexible, non-elastic strap toward the retracted position
Implementation Method 2
the elastic element will retract under influence of the spring force of the elastic element to an unloaded position
Implementation Method 3
Both pulley shaped elements act as pulleys. This has the advantage that if the second pulley shaped element moves under a certain force over a certain distance towards the first pulley shaped element that an end of the non-elastic strap guided along the first and second pulley shaped elements will be moved over twice said distance at half said force
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A carrying device comprises at least one object to be carried and at least one handle connected with at least one end to the object. The handle is movable between a retracted position and a carrying position. The retractable handle comprises a flexible, non-elastic strap adapted to be held by a user and at least one elastic element coupled to the flexible, non-elastic strap and configured to bias the flexible, non-elastic strap toward the retracted position.