Tensioning Tie-Down Apparatus With Intertwined Securing Member

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tie-down systems lack the ability to securely fasten objects of various sizes and shapes while preventing slippage, as they often rely on insufficient tensioning mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A tensioning tie-down apparatus that intertwines a securing member through multiple apertured and gapped tensioning members, creating tension and friction to securely fasten objects by using elongated securing members with sufficient tensile strength and resiliency, and incorporating a securing member lock for enhanced fastening capability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional tie-down systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to securely fasten objects of various sizes and shapes is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to securely fasten objects of various sizes and shapesVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tensioning member is divided into multiple segments including apertures, gaps, and locking mechanisms. The securing member is segmented into sections that can be independently positioned through different apertures and gaps, allowing the system to adapt to various object sizes and shapes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tensioning member with multiple apertures and gaps serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, creates friction through gaps, enables positioning at different locations via apertures, and integrates a locking mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single device to securely fasten objects of various sizes and shapes without requiring multiple different tie-down systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If insufficient tensioning mechanisms are used, then the device is easier to operate, but slippage prevention capability is poor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveslippage prevention capabilityVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The gaps in the tensioning member create automatic friction-based tensioning when the securing member is pulled through. As the securing member passes through the gaps, friction is generated that automatically tensions the system and prevents slippage without requiring additional manual tensioning operations, thus maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the securing member and the tensioning member. It provides enhanced fastening capability by locking the securing member in place after it has been positioned through the apertures and gaps, preventing slippage while requiring minimal additional operation from the user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Force

If multiple apertures and gaps are incorporated, then tension generation capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetension generation capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The tensioning member is segmented into distinct functional zones with apertures, gaps, and locking mechanisms positioned at specific locations. This segmentation allows each feature to contribute to tension generation in a controlled manner, creating optimal tension through the interaction of multiple simple geometric features that can be manufactured using standard fabrication processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Effectively secures objects of diverse sizes and shapes by generating optimal tension and reducing slippage, while being inexpensive to manufacture and easy to use.

Implementation Method 1

intertwines at least one securing member through at least one tensioning member having multiple apertures and gaps to generate tension along the length of the at least one securing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

elongated securing members with sufficient tensile strength and resiliency

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9528655B1Tensioning tie down apparatus

Publication Date: 2016.12.27 MILES KEVIN J

AI summary

A tensioning tie down apparatus enables a securing member to intertwine through multiple apertures and gaps in a tensioning member to generate tension through the securing member, which helps securely tie down objects and restrict slippage of the securing member. A securing member has a first securing member end and a second securing member end. The securing member is configured to have sufficient tensile strength and resiliency to stretch and bend, which helps create tension on the securing member. The tension helps tie down an object into a secure position, while also inhibiting slippage. The tensioning member has a hook shaped mounting member that forms a mounting gap. An extension member extends from the mounting member. A base extends perpendicularly form the extension member. The base is defined by a plurality of apertures. A base shaft extends from the base to form a base gap. One intertwining configuration has the securing member looping around mounting gap, the base gap, the apertures, and the object.