Reusable Zip Strap Tether With Self-Locking Adjustable Cinching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional zip ties are single-use and fixed-length, making them inconvenient for applications requiring adjustable and reusable solutions.
Innovation Solution
A zip strap tether system with multiple teeth and staggered slits along the strap, allowing for self-engagement, re-usability, and adjustability, featuring a strap with teeth on both edges and slits for secure cinching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional zip ties are used, then they provide simple single-use binding, but they cannot be reused and are fixed in length
Solution Approach 1:
The strap is segmented with multiple teeth along its length and multiple slits positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the strap to be engaged at various positions for different lengths and enables multiple engagement cycles for reusability, while maintaining simple operation through the basic zip-tie-like mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The strap transitions from a static fixed-length design to a dynamic adjustable design where the engagement position can be changed by selecting different slit positions. The teeth and slits work together to create adjustable engagement points, allowing the same strap to adapt to different binding requirements while maintaining ease of operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If zip ties are made reusable with multiple engagement positions, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than making the entire strap complex, only specific locations along the strap are modified with teeth and slits. The majority of the strap remains simple and uniform. This localized addition of features provides adjustability and reusability without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The teeth and slits are designed to work together automatically without requiring additional components or complex mechanisms. The strap self-engages by inserting the end through a selected slit and allowing the teeth to interlock, providing reusability and adjustability through simple self-service operation rather than complex mechanical systems
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for re-useable, self-locking, cinching, and bundling straps comprises wrapping a strap comprising: a plurality of teeth formed on a first edge of the strap, a plurality of teeth formed on a second edge of the strap, and at least one slit in the strap around an object; forming a loop around the object; inserting an end of the strap through the slit in the strap; and pulling the slack out of the loop.