Tie-Down Wrap Device With Rigid Connector Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retaining devices are not suited for a wide variety of applications, including stabilizing and securing articles such as metal tubing, vehicles, and lack a reliable method to connect tie-down straps or elements to the wrap, and maintain the wrap securely around the article.
Innovation Solution
A flexible tie-down wrap device made of strong base stock material with a slot and optional fastener assembly, featuring a rigid connector with a loop and eye opening that allows tension from tie-down elements to keep the wrap tightly wound, and a fastener system like hook and loop to secure the wrap around articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible sheet material is wrapped around an article to stabilize it during shipping, then the device can adapt to various article shapes and sizes, but the wrap may become loose or unwound during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device is formed from a flexible sheet material that is wrapped around the article in overlapping layers, with the end portion containing the connector nested within the wrapped structure. The connector is embedded in the wrapped portion, creating a nested configuration that maintains structural integrity while adapting to various article geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
A rigid connector with a loop and eye opening serves as an intermediary element between the flexible sheet material and the tensioning force from tie-down straps. The connector translates the tension force into a securing mechanism that prevents unwinding while maintaining the wrapped configuration.
2Force
If tie-down straps are connected to the wrap device to secure articles, then the securing force is applied to stabilize the article, but there is no reliable connection point in prior devices
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device is segmented into distinct functional portions: a flexible sheet material for wrapping, a rigid connector for force application, and a loop structure for tie-down element attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively, with the connector serving as a dedicated interface for tie-down straps.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid connector with its loop and eye opening serves multiple functions: it provides a connection point for tie-down straps, maintains the wrapped configuration, and distributes the securing force across the wrapped portion. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connection mechanisms.
3Strength
If the wrap device is made from strong base stock material to withstand shipping forces, then the device can handle heavy and diverse articles, but the construction complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap device combines different materials with complementary properties: flexible sheet material (such as leather, heavy canvas, rubber, or plastic) for adaptability and strength, and a rigid connector for structural integrity and force distribution. This composite construction allows the device to handle heavy and diverse articles while maintaining a relatively simple overall design.
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 device provides a secure, versatile, and cost-effective solution for stabilizing and tying down articles in various shipping and commercial applications, ensuring the wrap remains tightly wound and securely connected to the article through tension and fastening mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a cooperating pair of fastener elements, e.g., a hook and loop fastener
Implementation Method 2
A rigid connector comprising a loop with a central eye opening has a foot portion that is attached to one end of the base stock material
Implementation Method 3
tension exerted by a cord or other tie-down element passed through the eye of the connector pulls the connector outwardly to apply tension through the opening on a subsurface lap of the base stock so as to draw overlapping portions of the wrap device into contact with one another
Data Source
AI summary
A wrap device that can be used for tying down articles which are to be shipped or to provide a secure connection to an article comprises a flexible sheet of strong base stock material such as leather, heavy canvas, rubber, plastic, etc. The base stock has a pair of ends and an opening or slot through it that is spaced apart from one end. In use, the stock material is wrapped around an article to be shipped or secured in place. An optional fastener assembly that is connected to the base stock includes a cooperating pair of fastener elements, e.g., Velcro® proximate the ends of the base stock for securing the ends of the base stock together when wrapped around the article that is being shipped. A rigid connector is provided on the base stock that has a metal loop with a central eye opening and a foot that is attached near one end of the base stock such that when the base stock is coiled around an article, the connector extends through the opening in the base stock with the loop projecting outwardly whereby tension exerted by a cord or other tie-down element passed through the eye of the connector tends to draw overlapping portions of the base stock into tight contact with one another to provide a secure overlap. The wrap device can therefore be held in a wrapped condition in two ways; by tension applied to the eye of the connector as well as by the fastener assembly to provide a secure connection.