Running-End Spool Containment Device for Strap Length Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional resistance training systems and tie-down straps lack the ability to adjust the length of the running-end straps, leading to entanglement issues with the user or other objects, as the running-ends are fixed and cannot be easily managed.
Innovation Solution
A running-end spool containment device that includes a spool bracket, a spring case, a lock case, and an axel, allowing the running-end of a strap to be wound and unwound, with a lockable mechanism to secure the strap at a selectable length and enable length adjustment by engaging or disengaging the axel rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the running-end of a strap is fixed at a set length, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the length cannot be adjusted and may become entangled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static fixed-length strap into a dynamic adjustable-length strap through a spool mechanism. The spool can rotate to wind or unwind the strap, allowing the running-end length to be dynamically changed from a fixed state to an adjustable state, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary locking mechanism (locking plate with cam and spring) that mediates between the user's adjustment action and the spool's rotation. This intermediary device allows the strap length to be adjusted during use while maintaining simplicity by using a mechanical cam-spring system rather than a complex motorized or electronic adjustment system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lockable spool mechanism is added to adjust strap length, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle through the spring-loaded cam locking mechanism that automatically engages and disengages based on the spool's rotation. When the user pulls the running-end, the cam automatically releases the locking lugs; when the user releases the strap, the spring automatically re-engages the locking lugs. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for complex control systems while maintaining reliable length adjustment and locking functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the running-end is free to move, then length adjustment is easy, but entanglement with user or objects occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic free-running-end from the system by containing it within a spool housing. The running-end is wound around the spool and contained within the housing structure, preventing it from freely moving and becoming entangled with the user or surrounding objects, while still allowing length adjustment through controlled spool rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the spool containing the running-end inside a protective housing. The running-end is nested within the spool, which is nested within the housing structure, creating multiple containment layers that prevent entanglement while maintaining accessibility for length adjustment through the locking mechanism.
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 device effectively secures the running-end of a strap at a desired length, preventing entanglement while allowing for easy length adjustments, enhancing user safety and convenience by managing the strap's length dynamically.
Implementation Method 1
a constant force spring disposed within the spring case, the constant force spring having a first end connected to the first end of the axel. The constant force spring may be configured to wind around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in a first direction, the constant force spring placing the axel under tension when wound around the first end of the axel causing the axel to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction when no other force is applied to the axel
Data Source
AI summary
Running-end spool containment devices and systems are described herein that allow a user to secure a running-end of a strap within a lockable device to anchor the running-end of the strap at a selectable length when the device is in a locked mode, and to enable the running-end of the strap be lengthened or shortened when the device is in an unlocked mode. In an embodiment, the device includes an axel about which the running-end of a strap can be wound and unwound, a lock case that can engage the axel to prevent axel rotation in the locked mode and that can be disengaged from the axel to allow the axel to rotate freely in the unlocked mode, and a spring case that causes the axel to rotate and the running-end of the strap to wind around the axel when the lock cases is in the unlocked mode.