Vacuum-Locking Bag Strap Structure for Fixed-Length Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bag straps lack a mechanism to lock the strap length, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an optimum carrying length during use.
Innovation Solution
A locking structure for bag straps that incorporates a bladder with a chamber and elastic elements, allowing the straps to transition between an unlocked and locked state through adjustment of fluid pressure within the chamber, using a vacuum mechanism or reactive forces to secure the strap length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable straps are used, then the bag can accommodate various carrying heights, but the strap length cannot be locked or fixed at an adjusted position
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system transitions from a static fixed-length state to a dynamic adjustable state through the introduction of a movable carabiner that can slide along the strap, allowing users to dynamically adjust the carrying height while maintaining the ability to lock at desired positions
Solution Approach 2:
A carabiner acts as an intermediary component between the strap ends, providing a mechanical connection that enables both adjustment and locking functions. The carabiner's ability to open and close serves as the mediation mechanism between the user's adjustment action and the strap's fixed length requirement
2Ease of operation
If a retention feature is added to contract a portion of the strap, then some securing is achieved, but the feature does not adequately lock or fix the strap length
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is segmented into multiple functional components: the main strap body, the adjustable carabiner mechanism, and the retention feature. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function - the carabiner handles adjustment while the retention feature provides locking, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and locking effectiveness
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 locking structure provides a customizable fit and enhanced support by locking the strap length, ensuring a secure and comfortable carrying experience.
Implementation Method 1
A locking structure for a bag includes a bladder, a locking system, and a vacuum mechanism in fluid communication with the interior void of the chamber. The vacuum mechanism is operable to remove fluid from the chamber
Implementation Method 2
A locking structure for an article includes a bladder having a first barrier element attached to a second barrier element to define a chamber having an interior void, and a locking system including locking elements each attached to at least one elastic element
Data Source
AI summary
A locking structure for an article includes a bladder including a first barrier element attached to a second barrier element to define a chamber having an interior void. A locking system includes locking elements that each attach to at least one elastic element. The locking elements each include at least one interface surface. The interior void of the bladder operable between a first pressure to move the locking system to a locked state and a second pressure to move the locking system to an unlocked state.