Shock-Absorbing Fabric Structure With Variable Deployment Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lanyards require complex and costly assembly processes, have constant deployment forces unsuitable for various users, and require manual adjustment of webbing lengths, which complicates manufacturing and limits their effectiveness in absorbing shock during falls or sudden stops.
Innovation Solution
The development of fabric structures with shock-absorbing members and load-bearing members, where the deployment force gradually increases with stretching, and the use of elongation yarns and a sheath that can be heat-treated to adjust relative lengths, forming an accordion-like configuration for improved shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lanyards are made from two separate webbings assembled together, then the shock absorption function is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate webbings (POY webbing and tubular-shaped webbing) into a single integrated webbing structure. The shock absorbing elements are woven directly into the webbing during manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps where one webbing is inserted into another. This merging of components maintains the shock absorption function while dramatically simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The shock absorbing elements are pre-integrated into the webbing structure during the weaving process itself, before the product is put into use. The POY yarns are incorporated into the webbing in specific patterns and orientations that provide shock absorption capability, so that when the webbing is manufactured, the shock absorption function is already built-in and requires no additional assembly steps.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment of webbing lengths is performed, then the relative lengths are controlled for proper functioning, but the manufacturing process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated weaving process. Instead of manually inserting, positioning, and securing one webbing into another, the entire structure is created through automated loom weaving. The relative lengths and positions of different webbing components are controlled by the weaving pattern itself, eliminating the need for manual measurement, positioning, and securing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameters from manual assembly operations to automated weaving parameters. The length, position, and configuration of webbing components are controlled by programming the loom's weave pattern rather than by manual measurement and adjustment. This parameter change from mechanical assembly to textile manufacturing enables precise control of relative lengths while dramatically increasing production speed.
3Reliability
If POY webbing is inserted through tubular-shaped webbing, then the shock absorbing structure is formed, but additional manual processes are required to adjust and attach webbings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the shock absorbing elements and the webbing structure into a single integrated component. Rather than inserting one webbing through another, the shock absorbing POY yarns are woven directly into the webbing in a pattern that creates the shock absorption function. This eliminates the need for separate insertion, adjustment, and attachment processes while maintaining the reliability of the shock absorbing structure.
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 fabric structures provide customizable shock absorption suitable for a wide range of users, reducing manufacturing complexity and ensuring effective load distribution during falls or sudden stops, with adjustable deployment forces and improved energy dissipation.
Implementation Method 1
elongation yarns that shrink during heat treatment to adjust relative lengths
Implementation Method 2
shock absorbing member and a load bearing member, wherein the deployment force of the fabric structure gradually increases as the fabric structure is stretched
Data Source
AI summary
Fabric structures having elongation yarns and ground yarns that form a sheath are provided, with the structure having two connection segments and at least one expansion segment in between the connection segments. Heat treatment of the one or more expansion segments shrinks the length of the elongation yarns during manufacture. A tensile load applied to the fabric structure stretches the elongation yarns and unfolds the gathered sheath. The elongation yarns absorb energy as the fabric structure elongates. In some embodiments, the fabric structure has more than one expansion segment so that the deployment force of the structure is not constant. In some embodiments, the fabric structure includes a band in some portions.