Submerging Device Elastic Lining Strap Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for submerging elongated objects like pipes and cables beneath water face issues with strap material degradation and high force requirements during mounting, leading to loss of binding function and safety concerns due to the need for strong tools and materials that cannot withstand corrosive environments for long periods.

Innovation Solution

A device using a strap with a loop and removable locking pin, combined with a compressed elastic lining made of non-corrosive materials like polyester, reduces the necessary stretching and maintains elasticity for long-term anchoring, allowing for inelastic material usage and reduced force requirements during mounting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a strap made of elastic material is used to attach the elongated object to the sinker, then the strap can be stretched during mounting to accommodate thickened ends, but the strap quickly loses its tensional force and binding function within weeks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting easeVSAvoidbinding function duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The strap system is segmented into two functional parts: a non-elastic polyester strap for long-term reliable attachment, and a separate elastic rubber lining that provides temporary elasticity during mounting. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without the drawbacks of using elastic material for the entire strap.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic rubber lining acts as an intermediary between the non-elastic polyester strap and the object/structure being attached. During mounting, the lining provides the necessary elasticity to stretch over protruding holders, while the polyester strap maintains its length and binding force for long-term operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If the strap is stretched significantly during mounting to move the thickened end over the protruding holder, then the strap can be attached to the sinker, but large forces are required which need additional strong tools and pose safety risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment feasibilityVSAvoidsafety risks and force requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic properties of the rubber lining are utilized temporarily during mounting to reduce the force required. The lining's elasticity allows the strap end to be stretched just enough to clear the protruding holder, after which the lining compresses and the strap locks into place without requiring continuous high force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If a strap made of elastic rubber material is used, then the strap can be stretched during mounting, but the material degrades quickly in corrosive marine environments and cannot guarantee function for many years

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting flexibilityVSAvoidservice life in corrosive environment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is divided into two material segments: polyester for the strap (resistant to corrosion and degradation) and rubber for the lining (provides elasticity during mounting). This material segmentation allows the polyester strap to provide long-term reliable attachment while the rubber lining is replaced or compressed after mounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a composite approach combining polyester and rubber materials, each selected for its specific properties. Polyester provides durability and corrosion resistance for long-term service, while rubber provides temporary elasticity during the mounting process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

4Force

If strong tools and materials are used to handle large forces during mounting, then the strap can be attached, but these materials cannot withstand corrosive environments for long periods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce handling capabilityVSAvoidcorrosion resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The force handling requirement is temporary and only applies during mounting. The elastic lining allows the system to handle large forces during this brief period, after which the forces are reduced and the polyester strap maintains the attachment without requiring corrosion-resistant strong tools or materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 provides a durable, long-lasting anchoring system that can handle large forces and maintain binding function over time, reducing the risk of personal injury and material exhaustion, while being suitable for corrosive environments.

Implementation Method 1

a lining of an elastic material arranged between the device and the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The locking pin is arranged to bear on the holder underside when in locked position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Force

Data Source

PatentEP1985903B1Device for submerging an elongated object
Publication Date: 2010.03.24 TTA CONSULT
  • EP1985903B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP1985903B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A device for submerging an elongated object (1), wherein the device comprises: a body (2) with a groove shaped track (3) to receive the elongated object, at least one strap (4) shaped to in a mounted stage fixedly hold the body against the object, and a lining (6) of an elastic material arranged between the device and the object, wherein the strap in each end is provided with a fastening element (19, 20) intended to be attached to the body, and the body is provided with fastening means (8, 9) arranged at each side of said track shaped to cooperate with said fastening element in order to attach the strap to the body, and at least one of the fastening means comprises a protruding holder (8, 9) provided with at least one open slot to receive the strap, wherein the holder on its underside forms a shoulder (12, 13) for fastening the strap. The strap is made of an essentially in-elastic material, and the length of the strap between the fastening elements is adapted so that the strap in a mounted state at least partly compresses said lining, the lining is shaped so that it in a compressed state provides the strap with a tensional force that presses the object against the body, and at least one of the fastening elements comprises a removable locking pin (16, 18) having a length which is larger than the width of the slot to bear on said shoulder and a loop (20) shaped to receive said locking pin (16).