Trampoline Strap Spring Tensioning Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trampoline designs lack a robust and flexible mechanism that effectively combines a soft edge with enhanced bounce and safety features, particularly in the connection between the trampoline bed and the spring system, which can lead to instability during use.
Innovation Solution
A strap spring trampoline design featuring a helical spring connected to a tension strap and a trampoline leg, with a collar system to secure the spool sleeve and prevent rotation, providing a stable and flexible frame structure that includes a spring cover gap for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a traditional spring connection is used to connect the trampoline bed to the frame, then the bounce is enhanced, but the stability and safety are compromised due to lack of secure connection and potential rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spool sleeve as an intermediary component between the spring and the frame. The spool sleeve wraps around the spring and is secured by collars, acting as a mediator that maintains spring tension while preventing unwanted rotation and ensuring stable connection to the trampoline bed
Solution Approach 2:
The collar system with locking tabs creates a secure, rotation-resistant connection that maintains consistent tension on the spring throughout its operation. This ensures the spring remains in an optimal tension state (equipotential) for both bounce performance and stability
2Ease of operation
If the spool sleeve is allowed to rotate freely, then the tension strap can move smoothly, but instability occurs due to uncontrolled rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The spool sleeve is designed with dynamic characteristics - it can rotate freely to allow smooth tension strap movement, but the collar system with spring-loaded locking tabs provides automatic stabilization when rotation exceeds operational needs, creating a dynamic system that adapts between freedom of movement and stability
3Reliability
If a rigid connection system is used to ensure stability, then the frame is secure, but flexibility and smooth operation are reduced due to increased friction
Solution Approach 1:
The spool sleeve acts as a flexible component that allows the tension strap to move smoothly through it. The sleeve's cylindrical shape and interaction with the collars create a flexible connection that maintains stability while enabling smooth operation with reduced friction compared to rigid connection systems
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 design enhances bounce and safety by maintaining tension in the spring system, ensuring stability and flexibility, while the collar system reduces friction and prevents rotation, resulting in a more secure and enjoyable jumping experience.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is connected to the tension strap and the lower horizontal trampoline frame. The spring is preferably helical.
Implementation Method 2
The spool sleeve rotates over the right collar and the left collar. The spool sleeve rotates over the right collar and the left collar.
Data Source
AI summary
A strap spring trampoline includes a trampoline frame having an upper horizontal trampoline frame and a lower horizontal trampoline frame. A trampoline bed is extended across the upper horizontal trampoline frame. A strap connection is formed on the trampoline bed that connects the trampoline bed to a tension strap. A spring is connected to the tension strap and the lower horizontal trampoline frame. The spring is preferably helical. The trampoline leg rigidly connects between the upper horizontal trampoline frame and the lower horizontal trampoline frame. The upper horizontal trampoline frame has a horizontal extension, and the horizontal extension further includes a flat section. A spool sleeve fits over the upper horizontal trampoline frame, and a tension strap rides over the spool sleeve when the tension strap moves over the upper horizontal trampoline frame. A right collar and a left collar fit together and retain the spool sleeve.