Tethered Strap Keeper for Dual-Ring Adjuster
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strap-length adjusters often require manual intervention to keep the strap ends close, which can lead to loosening of the mechanism, and there is a need for a combined solution that integrates a strap keeper with a strap-length adjuster to maintain the strap close to the adjuster automatically.
Innovation Solution
A strap adjuster and keeper apparatus comprising a strap-length adjuster with a tethered strap keeper, where the strap keeper is attached to a crossbar between two openings in a second ring, allowing the free end of the strap to be wrapped through openings to adjust the strap length while the tether limits the movement of the strap keeper, keeping it near the adjuster.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a strap-length adjuster is used to adjust strap length, then the strap length can be varied, but the loose strap end protrudes away and may move, causing the mechanism to loosen and become ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a strap-length adjuster mechanism with a strap keeper function into a single integrated device. The adjuster includes a first ring and second ring for length adjustment, while also incorporating a strap keeper that receives and retains the loose strap end, preventing it from protruding away and causing loosening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tether as an intermediary element that connects the strap keeper to the adjuster mechanism. This tether limits the movement of the strap keeper, ensuring it remains positioned to effectively retain the strap end while allowing the adjuster to function independently for length modification.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a separate strap keeper is used to keep loose ends close to the strap, then strap ends are contained, but the device becomes more complex and requires manual intervention to maintain positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the strap keeper with the strap-length adjuster into a single integrated device. The adjuster includes a first ring and second ring for length adjustment, while also incorporating a strap keeper that receives and retains the loose strap end, preventing it from protruding away and causing loosening.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated design allows the strap keeper to automatically maintain the strap end position without requiring manual intervention. The tether automatically limits the keeper's movement, and the structure itself ensures the strap end remains contained near the adjuster mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the strap keeper is allowed to move freely to accommodate strap adjustment, then the strap can be adjusted, but the strap keeper may move away from the adjuster, rendering the containment function ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tether as an intermediary element that connects the strap keeper to the adjuster mechanism. This tether limits the movement of the strap keeper, ensuring it remains positioned to effectively retain the strap end while allowing the adjuster to function independently for length modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap keeper is designed with controlled mobility - it can move within limits to accommodate strap adjustment operations, but the tether provides a dynamic constraint that prevents it from moving too far away from the adjuster, maintaining effectiveness throughout the adjustment range.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of strap control and an apparatus including a combined strap-length adjuster and strap keeper is disclosed for use with strap-length adjuster comprising two rings. The strap-length adjuster includes openings that permit the attachment of a tether to the strap keeper. The arrangement allows the tether to not interfere with the positioning or movement of the straps, and maintains the straps close to the strap-length adjuster and prevents slippage of the strap through the strap-length adjuster.