Scuba Backrest Strap Adjustment for Independent Shoulder Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scuba diver backrests with a single constraining strap require adjustment of the abdominal constraint to adjust shoulder constraints, which is inconvenient and cumbersome, especially in emergency situations, and traditional connections are invasive and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A backrest design with a single constraining strap featuring adjustable blocks and pins that allow independent adjustment of shoulder constraints without affecting the abdominal position, using a clamp mechanism for secure and reversible shoulder adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single constraining strap is used for the backrest, then the number of connections and closures is reduced, but the ability to independently adjust shoulder constraints is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The single constraining strap is divided into functionally independent segments: the abdominal constraint portion and the shoulder constraint portion. Each segment has its own adjustment mechanism (first adjustment means for abdominal, second adjustment means for shoulder), allowing independent adjustment of each region while maintaining a unified single-strap structure.
2Ease of operation
If traditional adjustable connections are used for shoulder constraints, then adjustment capability is provided, but the elements become cumbersome and invasive for the diver
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanisms for both abdominal and shoulder constraints are integrated into a unified strap structure. The first and second adjustment means are combined within the same continuous strap, eliminating the need for separate adjustable connections and reducing overall bulkiness and invasiveness for the diver.
3Device complexity
If the abdominal constraint is adjusted to change shoulder constraints, then a single strap structure is maintained, but the adjustment process becomes inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The strap is segmented into independent adjustment zones with dedicated adjustment mechanisms. The shoulder constraint portion has its own second adjustment means that can be operated independently from the abdominal first adjustment means, allowing rapid shoulder adjustment without disturbing the abdominal constraint and significantly reducing adjustment time.
4Ease of operation
If plastic connection elements are used for adjustable connections, then adjustment functionality is achieved, but reliability against impacts and entrapments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The material properties of the adjustment mechanisms are optimized for high strength and reliability. The first and second adjustment means are designed with enhanced mechanical properties to withstand impacts and entrapment forces encountered during cave diving, ensuring utmost reliability while maintaining adjustment functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A backrest for a scuba diver comprising: a strap, having an upper right portion fitting around the diver's right shoulder, an upper left portion fitting around the diver's left shoulder and a lower portion fitting around the diver's abdomen, a right adjustment block between the upper right portion and the lower portion, and a left adjustment block between the upper left portion and the lower portion. Each of the adjustment blocks has a first pin engaged in a first loop of one end of the upper portion, a second pin engaged in a second loop of one end of the lower portion, a clamp clamping the lower portion of the strap to block the sliding of the end of the lower portion of the strap around the second pin, and a handgrip actuating the clamp between blocking and unblocking the sliding of the end of the lower portion of the strap around the second pin.