Trapezoidal Fixturing Apparatus with Segmented Locking Teeth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fixturing systems for cables lack a secure and efficient method to prevent movement in one direction while allowing easy insertion and removal in the opposite direction, especially when using flexible loop-type and hook-type fasteners.

Innovation Solution

A fixturing apparatus comprising a housing with subassemblies and rigid locking teeth that form an aperture, where the flexible strap is confined within an enclosed channel, preventing backward movement by engaging with the locking teeth's gripping edges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If flexible loop-type and hook-type fasteners are used to attach surfaces, then ease of operation is improved, but fixation strength deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of insertion and removalVSAvoidfixation strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture is segmented into multiple locking teeth (grip surface, shoulder, gripping edge) that work together to provide both strong fixation and controlled release. Each tooth is a separate functional element that contributes to the overall locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking teeth are designed with asymmetric geometry where the gripping edge has a specific orientation that allows easy passage in one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction. The shoulder and grip surface are positioned to create a ratcheting effect.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

2Ease of operation

If flexible loop-type and hook-type fasteners are used to attach surfaces, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of insertion and removalVSAvoidsecurity against movement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking teeth are pre-positioned within the aperture to engage with the strap before any backward movement can occur. The shoulder and gripping edge are arranged to automatically lock the strap in place as it is inserted.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The friction and resistance that would normally prevent easy removal are converted into a beneficial locking mechanism where the gripping edge engages with the strap to prevent unwanted movement, while still allowing controlled release when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Strength

If an enclosed channel with locking teeth is used to confine the flexible strap, then fixation strength is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixation strengthVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking teeth are integrated directly into the housing structure that forms the aperture, eliminating the need for separate fastening components. The grip surface, shoulder, and gripping edge are all part of the same structural element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The aperture structure serves multiple functions: it confines the flexible strap, provides locking teeth for prevention of backward movement, and maintains structural integrity. The same housing elements that form the aperture also provide the locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9883719B2Fixturing apparatus

Publication Date: 2018.02.06 RIP-TIE INC

AI summary

A fixturing apparatus that includes a housing defining an interior space and having a trapezoidal cross-section, a first end, and an opposing second end, and is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough from the first end to said second end.