Trampoline Frame Tensioning Strap System for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trampolines lack sufficient frame stiffness, leading to noise and instability during use, as existing elastic straps do not provide adequate tension to enhance the structural integrity of the frame.
Innovation Solution
A system of tensioning straps, including first and second tensioning straps with ratchets, and sideways straps that attach to the frame and edge pad, providing increased tension and stability to the trampoline frame, and a method for assembling these straps to create a stiffer and quieter trampoline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastic straps are used to separate resilient members from the edge pad, then safety is improved by preventing contact between springs and padding, but frame stiffness deteriorates resulting in noise and instability during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static elastic straps to dynamic tensioning straps with ratchet mechanisms that can be adjusted and locked at optimal tension levels. This allows the frame stiffness to be actively controlled while maintaining the safety function of separating resilient members from the edge pad.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the tension parameter from the insufficient tension provided by elastic straps to the heightened tension of 800 N achieved through the ratchet mechanism. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by providing both adequate frame stiffness and maintained safety separation.
2Device complexity
If conventional elastic straps are used for separation, then simplicity of structure is maintained, but frame tension deteriorates resulting in insufficient tension (300 N) and noise during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a ratchet mechanism as an intermediary between the tensioning strap and the frame. This intermediary component enables the transmission of high tension forces (800 N) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that integrates with existing trampoline components.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If tensioning straps are added to increase frame stiffness, then noise reduction is achieved through enhanced stability, but device complexity increases due to additional straps and assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the tensioning strap system: frame stiffening, noise reduction, and edge pad retention. By merging these functions into a single integrated system rather than adding separate components for each function, the overall complexity is minimized while achieving multiple benefits simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning straps with ratchets serve multiple purposes: they provide frame stiffness to reduce noise, maintain safety separation, and retain the edge pad in place. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 tensioning strap system significantly increases the frame tension from 300 N to 800 N, reducing noise and enhancing trampoline performance by making it quieter and more stable, while also keeping the edge pad securely in place.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of first tensioning straps attached to the frame such that the circumference of the frame is covered by the plurality of first tensioning straps, wherein the plurality of first tensioning straps provide heightened tension to the frame
Implementation Method 2
The resilient members may comprise a plurality of springs (e.g. helical springs) that connect the edge of the flexible mat to the frame, thereby tensioning the flexible mat. When a person is using the flexible mat, i.e. jumping on it, the springs will extend in length and thereafter strive to return to their resting length.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a series of tensioning straps that are applied to the trampoline frame under tension. The tensioning straps serve to stiffen the trampoline frame which improves performance. The tensioning straps may be improved via the application of various sideways straps as well. The tensioning straps and the sideways straps may reside in channels or loops on the trampoline edge pad in order to further secure the edge pad in place.