Tensioning Strap With Removable Stiffening Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tensioning straps primarily vary stiffness through adjustable length, limiting the range of achievable stiffnesses, which restricts the adaptability and customization of support systems for human bodies or body segments.
Innovation Solution
A tensioning strap comprising a flexible base body with integrated stiffening elements that can be applied in a permanent or removable manner, allowing for varying stiffness without altering the strap's dimensions, enabling multiple stiffness options and flexibility in application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the length of the tensioning strap is adjusted to vary stiffness, then the stiffness can be modified, but the range of achievable stiffnesses is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical properties of the strap material itself. Different sections of the strap are made from materials with different stiffness characteristics, allowing the overall stiffness to be varied by changing which sections are engaged or by altering the material properties in specific zones, thereby expanding the range of achievable stiffnesses beyond what length adjustment alone can provide
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning strap employs composite materials by combining multiple materials with different stiffness properties within a single strap structure. This allows different portions of the strap to contribute differently to the overall stiffness, enabling a broader range of stiffness values to be achieved through material composition rather than relying solely on geometric adjustments
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple models of base bodies are manufactured to provide different stiffnesses, then stiffness variety is achieved, but production complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the strap into distinct functional sections with different material properties or structural characteristics. This allows a single base body design to produce multiple stiffness configurations by selectively engaging different segments or by having segments that can be independently adjusted, thereby achieving stiffness variety without requiring multiple complete base body models
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning strap implements universality by designing a single base body structure that can serve multiple stiffness functions. Through features such as removable inserts, adjustable sections, or variable material zones, one base body design can provide multiple stiffness options, eliminating the need to manufacture separate base bodies for each stiffness requirement and simplifying production
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a tensioning strap (1), the stiffness of which can be varied in a wide range of values. According to the invention, the tensioning strap (1) comprises a base body (3), made as a strip made of a flexible material, and one or more stiffening elements (5), applied to said base body. Said stiffening elements (5) can be applied to the base body in a permanent, non-removable manner, or, preferably, in a removable manner. In this way, said stiffening elements (5) can be applied, removed, displaced, replaced with stiffening elements of different types depending on the needs. The invention finds particular, though non-exclusive, application in the making of a system of tensioning straps for a system for supporting a human body or a segment thereof.