Trampoline Tensioning Element with Triangular Retaining Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trampoline tensioning systems either require full cable replacement upon damage or lack the ability to simultaneously fasten multiple cable ends, limiting adjustable tensioning options for varying user weights and jumping characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A tensioning element with a triangular arrangement of at least three retaining elements allows for adjustable cable routing and simultaneous fastening of multiple cable ends, enabling variable tensioning without tools and enhancing user safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a single elastic cable is used to tension the jumping mat, then the tensioning is simple, but the entire cable must be replaced if it tears

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of tensioningVSAvoidcable replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic cable is divided into multiple segments that can be independently attached to the tensioning element. Each cable segment can be separately replaced without affecting the entire cable system, resolving the contradiction between simple tensioning and ease of repair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If hook-shaped tensioning elements with two receiving sections are used, then the tensioning is simple and the jumping mat is automatically centered, but only one elastic ring can be fastened at a time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetensioning simplicityVSAvoidnumber of cable ends that can be fastened
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The tensioning element is designed with multiple retaining elements that can simultaneously hold multiple elastic rings and cable segments. This multi-functional design allows the same tensioning element to accommodate various cable configurations for different user weights and jumping characteristics while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the elastic cable is guided in different sizes of loops, then the tensioning can be adjusted for different body weights, but the cable routing becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetensioning adjustmentVSAvoidcable routing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable routing is simplified by segmenting the cable path into distinct loops that can be independently configured around the retaining elements. This allows tensioning adjustment for different body weights without complex routing, as each cable segment can be separately positioned around the appropriate retaining elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution allows for simple, tool-free adjustment of trampoline tension, accommodating different user weights and jumping styles while ensuring secure cable fastening, reducing the need for frequent cable replacements.

Implementation Method 1

a jumping mat (15) which is suspended elastically within the frame (16)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10173090B2Tensioning element for tensioning a jumping mat on a frame of a trampoline
Publication Date: 2019.01.08 HEYMANS JOACHIM
  • US10173090B2 patent drawing
  • US10173090B2 patent drawing
  • US10173090B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a tensioning element (1) for tensioning a jumping mat (15) on a frame (16) of a trampoline (19) with the aid of an elastic cable (18), wherein the tensioning element (1) comprises a basic body (2) with a plurality of retaining elements (3a-3c) for retaining the elastic cable (18). In order to allow variable adjustment of the mat tensioning, the invention proposes to provide a plurality of retaining elements (3a-3c) on the same side of the basic body (2), and therefore the elastic cable can be positioned optionally around one or more of the retaining elements (3a-3c).