Sliding Rope Clamp Mechanism for Quick Loop Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rope clamping devices are not easily adjustable and require complex procedures for securing and releasing, making them cumbersome for quick adjustments and use.

Innovation Solution

A rope holder device with a base portion, posts, and a clamp/release mechanism that includes a plunger and lever system, allowing for easy clamping and releasing of the rope by sliding the clamping portion along the posts, facilitated by a spring-loaded mechanism for secure locking and quick release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing rope clamping devices are used, then the rope can be secured, but the adjustment and release procedures are complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustment and releaseVSAvoidcomplexity of clamping mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping portion is designed to slide along the posts, transitioning between a clamped position and a released position. This dynamic movement allows the clamping mechanism to adapt its state based on operational needs, enabling quick adjustment and release without complex procedures. The slidable connection provides mechanical flexibility while maintaining secure clamping when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into distinct functional components: a base portion with posts, a separate clamping portion that slides on the posts, and a rope receiving area. This segmentation allows the clamping portion to be independently positioned and adjusted along the posts, simplifying the adjustment mechanism while maintaining effective rope securing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If existing rope clamping devices are used, then the rope can be held securely, but quick adjustment and release are not achievable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of adjustment and releaseVSAvoidsimplicity of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping portion's ability to slide dynamically along the posts enables rapid transition between clamped and released states. This mechanical dynamics eliminates the need for complex locking or unlocking procedures, allowing operators to quickly adjust rope positioning or release the rope with simple movements, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If a secure clamping mechanism is implemented, then the rope is held firmly, but the release procedure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of rope holdingVSAvoidcomplexity of release mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The slidable clamping portion maintains reliable rope holding when engaged on the posts while allowing equally simple release by sliding to the released position. This dynamic design ensures that the same simple mechanical action (sliding) both secures and releases the rope, eliminating complex release procedures while maintaining secure holding capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping portion's weight and the friction between the clamping portion and posts provide automatic securing when engaged, without requiring additional locking mechanisms. The release is achieved by simply overcoming this friction through sliding motion, making the system self-servicing and eliminating complex release procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables quick and easy adjustment and release of the rope, providing secure locking and accommodating various rope diameters, enhancing usability and efficiency in securing objects.

Implementation Method 1

a spring disposed between the plate and an upper wall of the clamping portion to force the lower plate towards the base portion when the clamp/release mechanism is in the clamping position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

One end of the plunger extends outside the clamping portion and an opposing end of the plunger has a plate extending outwardly therefrom. The plate moves the at least one lever to the release position by engaging the at least one lever when the plunger is extended outwardly from the clamp portion to the release position.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical displacement: Displacement

Data Source

PatentUS11629776B2Rope holder
Publication Date: 2023.04.18 COREY MATTHEW M
  • US11629776B2 patent drawing
  • US11629776B2 patent drawing
  • US11629776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for holding onto a rope to form a loop that can be tighten about two objects. The device including a base portion having at least one hole for securing one end of the rope. A clamping portion slidably engages a plurality of posts enabling the clamping portion to slide between a clamp position and release position for securing a portion of the rope therebetween. A clamp/release mechanism provides a means to clamp and release the clamping portion onto from the posts. The clamp/release mechanism includes a plurality of levers to selectively engage a respective post to clamp the clamping portion onto the posts when in a clamp position and disengage the at least one post to release the clamping portion from the posts when in a release position.