Rubber Strap Device Post with Friction Fit Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rubber strap devices with dowel pins or handles are inefficient in securing elastomeric bands around objects, as they require multiple steps and can lead to the pin being lost or the band disengaging during movement or handling, resulting in the band no longer being secured.
Innovation Solution
A rubber strap device featuring a two-part post with prongs and notched tabs, and a tubular retaining sleeve, which is molded from plastic and allows for secure attachment to the elastomeric band without easily separable parts, ensuring the post remains in place and the band is securely wrapped around objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dowel pin or handle is used to join the ends of the elastomeric band, then the band can be secured around objects, but the pin may fall out allowing the band to withdraw from the handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the handle and the securing mechanism into a single integrated post structure. The post includes a body with an opening that receives the band end, and the band end is secured within this opening through friction and geometric constraints, eliminating the need for separate pins or clips that could fall out.
Solution Approach 2:
The post acts as an intermediary structure between the band ends. Instead of using a separate pin to connect band ends, the post itself provides the securing function through its opening geometry and friction fit, serving as both the handle and the securing mechanism.
2Reliability
If multiple steps are required to bundle objects with the elastomeric band, then the band can be securely attached, but the process becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The post is pre-formed with the opening and securing features already in place before use. This eliminates the need for field assembly steps such as inserting pins or clips, allowing the user to simply wrap the band and insert the pre-prepared post end into the opening in one continuous motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling function and the securing function are merged into a single post component. The user grasps the post to apply tension and the same post structure simultaneously secures the band end within its opening, reducing the number of discrete actions required.
3Ease of operation
If the elastomeric band is stretched onto a smooth cylindrical portion of the dowel, then insertion is facilitated, but the band may roll, slide or move axially to a point where the end of the band comes free of the dowel
Solution Approach 1:
The post opening has non-uniform geometry with different characteristics at different locations. The opening is wider at the entrance to facilitate band insertion, then narrows to a constriction point that provides axial restraint, and finally has a secured region where the band end is held firmly. This local variation in geometry provides both ease of insertion and reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction between the band and the post opening, which could be seen as resistance to insertion, is actually utilized to hold the band securely in place once inserted. The friction fit prevents axial movement and keeps the band end secured within the opening without requiring additional retention features.
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 a secure, one-piece configuration that maintains the post's position on the rubber strap, preventing disengagement and loss, ensuring the band remains securely attached to objects even under tension or during handling, without the need for additional pins.
Implementation Method 1
Elastomeric bands have long been employed to bundle or otherwise organize one or more objects
Implementation Method 2
The band may be pulled tight against the bundle by pulling the first end back against itself
Data Source
AI summary
A rubber strap device is provided that includes a post that may be selectively attached to a flexible strap for securing the ends of the flexible strap when the strap is wrapped around one or more objects. The post may be configured to maintain a selected position on the flexible strap when mounted thereon.