Universal Connector Device for Elastic Cords
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices fail to securely attach and detach elastic or compliant cords and tubes, particularly under repetitious or oscillating forces, and cannot reliably connect them to surfaces or other connectors.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector device with a disk-shaped top plate, capture cap, and central capstan, featuring a helical track and ratchet mechanism, which securely retains cords or tubes through rotation and allows for easy detachment, and can be attached to various surfaces or other connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a capstan is used to hold a rope, then a small holding force can carry a much larger force, but the capstan cannot hold a rope in place or an elastic/pliable rope
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the rope path into multiple sections by wrapping the rope around the capstan multiple times, creating multiple contact points. This segmentation allows the rope to be anchored at intervals, preventing it from slipping off while maintaining the mechanical advantage of the capstan for force multiplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The rope is pre-wrapped around the capstan in a specific pattern before use, creating preliminary friction and contact points that prevent the rope from slipping off. This preliminary configuration ensures the rope stays in place while still allowing the capstan to function for force multiplication when needed.
2Reliability
If devices drive lines into shallower and shallower recesses or use abutting openings, then connection is achieved, but none can securely attach elastic or compliant cords under cyclic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The capstan has a curved, cylindrical surface around which the elastic or compliant cord is wrapped multiple times. This curvature allows the cord to conform to the shape while maintaining consistent contact and friction, securing the cord under cyclic forces without requiring the cord to be driven into recesses or through openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord is wrapped around the capstan in periodic loops, creating multiple contact zones that distribute the cyclic forces across different sections of the capstan. This periodic wrapping pattern ensures that no single point bears the full force, preventing failure under repetitive loading.
3Reliability
If a connector device securely retains elastic cords under oscillating forces, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capstan serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical advantage for force multiplication, anchors the rope through multiple wraps, and secures elastic/compliant cords under cyclic forces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, maintaining simplicity while achieving reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction and geometry of the capstan design allow it to automatically secure the cord under load without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex control systems. The capstan self-adjusts to the applied forces, maintaining secure retention through its inherent mechanical properties rather than active control.
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 device reliably secures elastic or compliant cords and tubes, preventing release under cyclic or oscillating forces and allowing for easy attachment and detachment, making it suitable for various applications including exercise and rehabilitation.
Implementation Method 1
The tension on a line wrapped around a capstan (or bollard or winch) may be different on either side of the capstan. A small holding force exerted on one side can carry a much larger force on the other side. This is the principle by which a capstan-type device operates.
Implementation Method 2
A helical track is formed in the capture cap, the helical track being sized and positioned to receive the cord or flexible tube at the entrance opening. The cord or flexible tube is lockably retained in the helical track and around the capstan surface upon rotation of the capture cap in a first direction and removable from the helical track and capstan surface upon rotation of the capture cap in a second direction.
Implementation Method 3
A ratchet capture and release mechanism engages the series of indents in which, in a first orientation, the capture cap is prevented from rotating with respect to the top plate and when in a second orientation, the capture cap is capable of so rotating.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector device is disclosed for releasably connecting a cord or flexible tube which includes a disk-shaped top plate which has an exit opening for the end of a cord to be retained. A capture cap has a circumferential edge which mates with the top plate. The top plate has a series of indents upon its circumferential edge. A capstan is located between the top plate and capture plate. A cord or flexible tube to be connected is directed through an opening where it enters a helical track in the capture cap. When the capture cap is rotated in a first direction the cord is wrapped around the capstan and captured within the helical track. Rotation in the opposite direction releases the cord. A ratchet capture and release mechanism engages the series of indents to further prevent release of the cord. A retaining device is secured to the top plate for attaching the connector device in a fixed position thereby attaching the cord. Multiple connector devices connect multiple cords or flexible tubes together.