Cylindrical Tank Mounting Bracket for Rapid Release Without Entanglement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for holding cylindrical tanks, such as self-contained breathing apparatus, often result in entanglements and hinder rapid exit due to complex strap mechanisms and poor positioning of adjustment mechanisms, leading to increased maintenance costs and operational difficulties for emergency personnel.

Innovation Solution

A mounting bracket with a unique configuration featuring a backing plate, upper and lower holder members, securement brackets, and a webbing panel made of woven polyester coated with PVC, which minimizes entanglements and allows for easy release by positioning adjustment mechanisms adjacent to securement brackets, enabling quick detachment and independent strap length adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If complex strap mechanisms are used to hold cylindrical tanks, then securement reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to entanglements and difficulty in rapid release

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurement reliabilityVSAvoidease of release
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The strap mechanism is divided into modular components: adjustable straps connected to holder members, and separate engagement means (latches or clips) that can be independently operated. This segmentation allows the straps to remain secured during normal use while enabling rapid release by simply disengaging the separate engagement means without manipulating the entire strap system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An intermediary engagement mechanism (such as a latch or clip) is introduced between the strap and the tank. This intermediary component provides the secure connection during normal operation while allowing rapid release by simply disengaging the intermediary, eliminating the need to manually manipulate the straps themselves for release.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If adjustment mechanisms are positioned in conventional locations, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but device complexity increases due to strap entanglements and operational difficulties

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanisms are repositioned from conventional locations to adjacent positions near the securement brackets. This spatial repositioning in a different dimensional arrangement allows the adjustment function to be integrated closer to the engagement point, reducing strap length and minimizing entanglement risk while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standard component placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate components are used for securement, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases leading to increased maintenance costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurement adaptabilityVSAvoidcomponent quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder members are designed with universal engagement means that can accommodate different tank sizes and configurations. The same basic structure with adjustable straps and standardized engagement mechanisms (latches or clips) serves multiple functions: securing tanks in various positions, allowing rapid release, and providing adaptability across different applications without requiring multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7503535B2Mounting bracket for detachable holding of a cylindrical tank
Publication Date: 2009.03.17 ZIAMATIC LLC
  • US7503535B2 patent drawing
  • US7503535B2 patent drawing
  • US7503535B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bracket for holding of cylindrical tanks such as emergency breathing tanks adjacent to a wall surface or behind a seat surface in a detachable manner with positive engagement released by an operative release line. An upper and lower securement strap are secured together at an engaging tab which straps extend around the tank when the tab is engaged and can be easily released for rapid exit. A webbing extends between the upper and lower securement straps for minimizing any entanglements or catching of the straps on protruding portions of the tank.