Sling Bar Retention Spring for One-Handed Sling Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sling bars require caregivers to use both hands to attach a sling loop, preventing the use of one hand to steady the subject and often result in entanglement or adjustment complications due to latch mechanisms that create pinch points.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a strap guide slot and a retention spring that allows for one-handed attachment of sling loops, using a threshold opening force to move the spring from a closed to an open position, facilitating secure attachment without the need for manual latch manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional latch mechanisms are used on sling bars, then secure attachment of sling loops is achieved, but two-handed operation is required and pinch points cause entanglement risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional latch mechanism from the sling bar attachment system. Instead of using a latch that requires manual manipulation, the invention extracts this component entirely and replaces it with a spring-loaded retention system where the spring (150) automatically engages with the sling loop (140) through a guide slot (130), enabling one-handed operation while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The retention spring (150) is designed to automatically engage and secure the sling loop (140) without requiring manual latch manipulation. The spring-loaded mechanism self-adjusts to retain the sling loop firmly in place, and can be released simply by pulling the loop, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for complex latch operations
2Reliability
If latch mechanisms with pinch points are used, then attachment security is maintained, but entanglement and adjustment complications occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of pinch points into a beneficial feature by using the spring-loaded retention mechanism. Instead of sharp latch edges that create pinch points, the spring (150) distributes pressure evenly along the sling loop (140), transforming what could be a harmful concentrated force into a beneficial distributed retention force that secures the attachment without entanglement
Solution Approach 2:
The retention spring (150) acts as a flexible mechanical element that conforms to the sling loop (140) shape, providing secure retention without rigid edges or pinch points. This flexible spring mechanism allows the sling loop to pass through smoothly and be retained securely without the entanglement issues associated with rigid latch structures
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 caregivers to securely attach sling loops to the sling bar using one hand, reducing the risk of entanglement and simplifying the process while maintaining subject stability during lifting and repositioning.
Implementation Method 1
a first retention spring moveable between a closed position and an open position. The first retention spring is extended toward the first upper slot surface when in the closed position and is retracted toward the first lower slot surface when in the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A sling bar includes a first bar portion, a first receiving aperture, a first strap guide slot, and a first retention spring. The first bar portion has a first upper surface. The first receiving aperture is disposed within the first bar portion. The first strap guide slot is disposed within the first bar portion and extends from the first upper surface to the first receiving aperture. The first strap guide slot is defined by a first lower slot surface and a first upper slot surface. The first retention spring is disposed within the first strap guide slot and moveable between a closed position and an open position. The first retention spring is extended toward the first upper slot surface when in the closed position and is retracted toward the first lower slot surface when in the open position. The first retention spring is biased to the closed position.