Load-Balancing Strap Hub for Quick-Access Bag Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tote bags and backpacks require users to completely remove the load-bearing straps and the bag itself to access contents, making it time-consuming and inefficient, and potentially leaving the user vulnerable in dangerous situations.
Innovation Solution
A load-balancing strap hub and connector system that redistributes forces, allowing users to quickly access bag contents by decoupling one strap and sliding the bag to their chest while keeping it on, using a hub with a coaxial post and connector with a keyhole and slot configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional load-bearing straps are used requiring complete removal to access contents, then bag security is maintained, but access time increases and user vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is segmented into multiple independent attachment points (first strap, second strap, third strap) connected through a hub and connector mechanism. This allows selective detachment of individual straps rather than requiring removal of the entire strap system, enabling rapid access to bag contents while maintaining overall bag security through the remaining attached straps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates a dynamic slot mechanism that allows the hub to slide along the slot and rotate, transforming the static strap connection into a dynamic system. This enables quick transitions between secured and accessible states by simply sliding and rotating the connector, dramatically reducing access time while maintaining security when needed.
2Productivity
If load-bearing forces are concentrated on fixed strap positions, then structural simplicity is maintained, but access speed decreases due to required complete removal
Solution Approach 1:
The hub and connector assembly serves multiple functions: it distributes load-bearing forces across multiple attachment points, enables rapid detachment and reattachment of straps, and allows rotation to different positions. This multi-functionality achieves both fast access capability and load distribution without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary element between the hub and the third strap, providing a sliding slot mechanism that mediates the connection. This intermediary component enables the rapid access function while keeping the overall system relatively simple by using a straightforward slot-and-slide design rather than complex mechanical assemblies.
3Ease of operation
If straps are positioned for secure wearing, then bag security is improved, but access efficiency deteriorates requiring complete bag removal
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is divided into separable segments (first strap, second strap, third strap) that can be independently detached. When accessing contents, only the necessary strap segment is detached while others remain attached, maintaining bag security and position on the user's body while enabling quick access without complete removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-configured with a slot and rotation capability that allows for rapid one-handed operation. The hub can be quickly inserted into and removed from the slot, and the connector can be rotated to locked positions, enabling fast access operations while maintaining secure attachment when needed without requiring two hands or complex manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an improved load-balancing strap hub and connector for a bag or pack.