Trampoline Mat Clip and Elastic Loop for Safer Frame Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching a trampoline jumping mat to a trampoline frame using bungee cords are difficult and unsafe, particularly for larger trampolines, as they require complex knotting and tensioning, which can lead to user injury due to the elastic cord snapping back.
Innovation Solution
A clip with a hook and aperture system that allows for easy attachment of elastic connectors, forming a loop that passes through the clip and around the frame, reducing the need for complex knotting and ensuring user safety by keeping the knot out of reach and securely attaching the connector to the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual bungee cords are used to attach the trampoline mat to the frame, then the trampoline can be assembled with elastic connectors, but the assembly process becomes extremely difficult and time-consuming due to the need to knot each cord individually
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the attachment system into separate functional components: a connector body that attaches to the frame, and a bungee cord that attaches to the mat. The connector body includes a through-hole for the bungee cord and a hook for frame attachment, allowing the cord to be pre-threaded through the hole before final assembly, eliminating the need to knot each cord individually during installation
Solution Approach 2:
The bungee cord is pre-threaded through the through-hole of the connector body before the connector is attached to the frame. This preliminary threading action simplifies the final assembly process, as the cord is already in position and only needs to be secured with a simple knot or clip rather than being tied from scratch under tension
2Force
If bungee cords are stretched to provide adequate tension for the jumping surface, then the required tension is achieved, but the cords become difficult to manipulate and knot while stretched
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body serves as a stationary anchor point attached to the frame, while the bungee cord remains flexible and movable. This segmentation allows the cord to be manipulated and knotted at the connector end where it is accessible, rather than trying to knot the cord mid-span while it is stretched between frame points
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body acts as an intermediary device between the frame and the bungee cord. It provides a convenient location (the through-hole and surrounding structure) where the cord can be easily threaded, knotted, or clipped, making the operation simple even when the cord is under tension
3Ease of operation
If the loop of elastic cord is pulled back from the frame to the connector during assembly, then the connector can be secured, but the cord may snap back and hit the user if released prematurely
Solution Approach 1:
The hook on the connector body serves as a safe intermediary that catches the bungee cord before it can snap back toward the user. The cord is routed through the through-hole and secured to the hook, creating a controlled path that prevents the cord from whipping back across the user's body during assembly or maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The hook structure is designed to catch and hold the bungee cord in a controlled position before final securing. This preliminary capture action prevents the cord from snapping back unexpectedly, allowing the assembler to work safely even when the cord is under tension
4Reliability
If complex knotting is required to attach the bungee cord to the frame, then the cord can be secured, but the process becomes unsafe and difficult for users
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into a connector body with a through-hole for cord passage and a separate hook for frame attachment. This segmentation allows the bungee cord to be threaded through the hole and secured with a simple knot or clip at the connector end, rather than requiring complex knotting to attach the cord directly to the frame structure
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body serves as an intermediary that simplifies the attachment process. Instead of knotting the cord directly to the frame (which would be complex and unsafe), the cord is knotted or clipped to the connector's through-hole structure, which is designed to be easily accessible and manipulateable
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 solution simplifies the attachment process, enhances user safety by preventing the elastic connector from snapping back, and allows for easy replacement of individual parts, providing a secure and enjoyable jumping experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic connector comprising a length of elastic material with two ends; the two ends being connected together so that the elastic material forms a loop
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for attaching a trampoline jumping mat to a trampoline frame using a clip comprising an aperture and the clip further comprising a hook for attaching the clip to the trampoline frame. The method also using an elastic connector comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion comprising a loop, and the method comprising the steps of: a. passing part of the elastic connector through the aperture in the clip; b. attaching the clip to the frame using the hook; c. passing the first portion of the elastic connector around both the hook and the frame; d. passing the second portion of the elastic connector through the loop of the first portion of the connector; and e. connecting the second portion of the elastic connector to the trampoline jumping mat. A clip for attaching a trampoline jumping mat to a trampoline frame, the clip comprising: a hook for attaching the clip to the trampoline frame. The clip further comprising an aperture which enables an elastic connector to be passed through the aperture and around both the hook and the frame; and the clip further comprising a fastener to which the elastic connector and/or a second elastic connector can be fastened.