Internal tensioning structure useable with inflatable devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inflatable products face challenges in maintaining shape and weight reduction due to the use of thick PVC tension bands, which increase the weight and packed volume of the deflated structure.
Innovation Solution
A tensioning structure formed by connecting plastic strips with spaced-apart strands, such as strings or wires, providing high tensile strength while minimizing weight and volume, with various geometric arrangements and manufacturing methods to integrate into inflatable products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thick PVC tension bands are used to maintain shape, then structural strength is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous PVC tension band is segmented into discrete strands spaced apart from each other. Each strand individually contributes to tensile strength, while the spaces between strands reduce overall material usage, achieving both structural integrity and weight reduction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from thick solid PVC bands to thin strand structures that function similarly to flexible shells - providing necessary structural support with minimal material thickness, thereby reducing weight while maintaining shape-maintaining functionality
2Strength
If thick PVC tension bands are used to maintain shape, then structural strength is improved, but packed volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting the tension band into spaced strands creates a structure with significant empty space between elements, allowing the deflated inflatable product to collapse more efficiently into a compact form, thereby reducing packed volume while maintaining necessary structural strength
Solution Approach 2:
The spaced-apart strand configuration creates a porous or open structure that allows for better compression and folding of the deflated product, reducing the volume required for storage and transport while maintaining structural integrity when inflated
3Force
If continuous plastic strips are used for tension bands, then force distribution is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous plastic strip is divided into multiple discrete strands spaced apart. The distribution of force is maintained through the collective action of multiple strands rather than a single continuous strip, while the spacing between strands reduces total material quantity and weight
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of material continuity from continuous to discrete spaced elements, and alters the cross-sectional area parameter by using thinner strands. This combination maintains force distribution capability through proper strand spacing and quantity while significantly reducing weight
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 solution effectively maintains the shape of inflatable products with reduced weight and packed volume, achieving a high operable area-to-weight ratio and low average thickness, making them more lightweight and compact.
Implementation Method 1
When pulled taut, the strands provide a high tensile strength between the two opposed plastic strips
Data Source
AI summary
An internal tensioning structure for use in an inflatable product fulfills the basic function of maintaining two adjacent inflatable surfaces in a desired geometric arrangement when the inflatable product is pressurized. The tensioning structure is formed by connecting a pair of plastic strips sheets via spaced-apart strands, such as strings or wires. When pulled taut, the strands provide a high tensile strength between the two opposed plastic strips. At the same time, the plastic strips facilitate a strong, long-lasting weld between the tensioning structure and the inflatable product.