Scuba Tank Cinch With Self-Locking Tab Against Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank cinch designs for scuba diving are complex, costly, and difficult for untrained divers to use properly, leading to risks of tank separation and air supply disruption during dives.
Innovation Solution
A backpack cinch system that quickly and safely pre-tensions a strap to secure a breathing tank to a buoyancy compensator device, featuring a self-locking tab mechanism that prevents accidental release and requires deliberate user action to open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art cinch designs are used to secure the tank to the BC, then the tank can be secured, but the design becomes complex and costly to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The cinch mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the cam member for tensioning, the tab member with toothed portion for locking, and the cover for protection. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve reliable tank securing through modular, simplified components rather than a complex integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member is biased to automatically rotate in the first rotational direction to close the tab and secure the strap, and rotates in the second rotational direction when deliberately actuated to open. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual operation systems while maintaining secure locking, reducing both device complexity and manufacturing cost.
2Reliability
If prior art cinch designs are used, then the tank can be secured, but it becomes hard to understand how to use for untrained divers
Solution Approach 1:
While the patent does not explicitly mention color changes, the cover opening mechanism provides visual feedback through positional changes (open/closed states) that clearly indicate the securing status. The tab member's movement from closed to open position provides intuitive visual cues to divers about the tank's secured state, improving ease of operation without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member's biasing mechanism works in reverse of conventional designs: instead of requiring continuous force to maintain tension, the cam automatically maintains the tab in the closed (secured) position and only opens when deliberately actuated. This inverted logic simplifies user interaction while ensuring reliable securing.
3Ease of operation
If prior art cinch designs are used, then the tank can be secured, but the physical location is subject to being opened inadvertently too easily
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is positioned to physically block and prevent inadvertent opening of the tab member. This preliminary protective action ensures that the tab can only be opened when the cover is deliberately moved, preventing accidental releases while maintaining ease of intentional operation. The cover acts as a preliminary barrier against harmful inadvertent actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member provides a protective barrier that cushions against inadvertent forces that might otherwise open the tab. By positioning the cover between potential inadvertent actions and the tab mechanism, the design prevents accidental openings while requiring only deliberate action to open intentionally, balancing reliability and ease of operation.
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 system ensures secure attachment of the breathing tank, reducing the risk of tank separation and air supply disruption, while being easy to use and resistant to inadvertent opening.
Implementation Method 1
the cam member is biased to rotate in a first rotational direction to close the tab and second rotational direction, opposite the first rotational direction to open the tab
Implementation Method 2
the toothed portion of the tab faces the serrated bearing surface of the buoyancy compensation device... the strap remains fixed between the toothed portion of the cam and a serrated bearing surface
Data Source
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AI summary
In one aspect, an embodiment of the invention provides a back pack cinch for a strap securing a breathing tank to a buoyancy compensation device worn by a diver. The back pack cinch includes a cinch body. A cover is rotatably mounted to the cinch body. The cover has an open position and a closed position. The cover in the closed position is configured to tension a strap. A tab is rotatably mounted to the cinch body. The tab has an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, a portion of the strap is pressed against the serrated bearing surface by the tab to hold the portion of the strap in a fixed position.