Twisted Endless Strip Loop for Uniform Load Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing endless shaped articles suffer from uneven load distribution across convoluted layers, leading to premature failure and reduced efficiency, as certain layers are subjected to excessively high loads, and the ratio of measured strength to theoretical strength is compromised.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a strip of material forming convolutions with a twist of an odd multiple of 180 degrees along its longitudinal axis, enhancing load distribution and stability, allowing for a broader range of materials to be used without specific adaptation, and optimizing efficiency through increased density and fastening elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional endless shaped articles are used with coiled strip material, then load carrying strength is achieved, but load distribution across layers becomes uneven causing premature failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload carrying strengthVSAvoidload distribution uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by introducing a twist of odd multiple of 180 degrees in each convolution of the strip. This asymmetric twisting configuration creates alternating orientation of layers that promotes uniform load distribution across all layers, preventing any single layer from bearing excessive load and thus eliminating premature failure at weak spots

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

2Productivity

If conventional endless shaped articles are used, then basic functionality is achieved, but efficiency is reduced due to unequal load distribution

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveefficiencyVSAvoidload distribution uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The asymmetric twist configuration of odd multiple of 180 degrees in each convolution creates a structure where layers alternate in orientation. This asymmetry ensures that loads are evenly distributed across all layers during operation, maximizing the efficient utilization of the strip material's strength and achieving higher measured strength relative to theoretical strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Reliability

If conventional endless shaped articles are used, then basic structural integrity is achieved, but safety factor is reduced due to premature failure at weak spots

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidsafety factor

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

By implementing asymmetric twisting with odd multiples of 180 degrees in each convolution, the patent eliminates weak spots that would otherwise experience concentrated loads. The alternating layer orientation distributes stress uniformly, preventing premature failure and significantly increasing the safety factor of the endless shaped article

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The twisted convolution structure acts as a preemptive measure to prevent load concentration before it can cause damage. The asymmetric twist configuration is designed in advance to ensure that no single layer bears excessive load, cushioning against the development of weak spots and premature failure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20220153557A1Endless shaped article

Publication Date: 2022.05.19 AVIENT PROTECTIVE MATERIALS BV

AI summary

Endless shaped articles include at least one strip of material forming a plurality of convolutions of the strip of material, the strip having a longitudinal axis, wherein each convolution of the strip comprises a twist along the longitudinal axis thereof, wherein the twist is an odd multiple of 180 degrees. Methods to manufacture the article, and its use as sling, loop, belt or chain link are also disclosed.