Webbing Securement Device Using Spring-Loaded Wedge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing webbing around items or objects are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and can pose safety risks if not properly secured, especially when used to secure elevated items.
Innovation Solution
A securement and release device for webbing (SRDFW) with two design configurations that allow quick and secure attachment and detachment of webbing using a clamp mechanism with pivot rods and a spring-loaded retaining clip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If webbing is placed manually or with a ratcheting device, then securement strength is achieved, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-assembled with the wedge and spring mechanism ready to engage. The webbing is positioned through the clamp before activation, so that when the release mechanism is actuated, the securement is immediately established without requiring manual tightening or ratcheting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded wedge automatically engages with the clamp jaws to maintain securement pressure. When webbing is inserted, the spring force automatically pushes the wedge against the jaws, creating friction-based holding without requiring external tightening action. The system self-regulates the securement force.
2Reliability
If webbing is secured tightly, then security is improved, but the release process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp transitions from a static friction-based hold to a dynamic release mechanism. The spring-loaded wedge can be rapidly disengaged by actuating the release mechanism, which allows the wedge to move away from the jaws, immediately releasing the securement regardless of how tightly it was secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge acts as an intermediary between the spring force and the clamp jaws. It transfers the spring force to create securement pressure, but can be easily moved by the release mechanism to interrupt this force chain, providing easy release without directly manipulating the tightly secured webbing.
3Ease of operation
If a single person places webbing, then labor is reduced, but the process remains time-consuming and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded wedge automatically engages and maintains securement pressure without requiring a second person to assist with tightening. The single operator simply needs to insert the webbing and activate the release mechanism, and the spring force automatically establishes the securement.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical ratcheting system requiring multiple operations is replaced with a simple spring-loaded wedge mechanism that provides automatic securement. This substitution reduces the number of manual steps required and eliminates the need for coordination between multiple persons.
4Device complexity
If webbing is secured manually, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and consistency suffer
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides a consistent force parameter that ensures uniform securement pressure across different installations. The wedge angle and clamp jaw geometry are designed to create reliable friction-based holding, ensuring consistent securement characteristics regardless of operator skill or manual tightening variation.
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
Enables rapid and secure attachment of webbing, reducing the time and effort required for securing items, while also enhancing safety by ensuring proper and quick release of the webbing when needed.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded retaining clip
Implementation Method 2
pivot rods
Data Source
AI summary
A securement and release device for webbing (SRDFW) comprised of two design configurations. Both configurations of the SRDFW allow a length of webbing to be quickly and securely attached to or removed from a structure. Both designs essentially function as a quick secure/release device into which webbing is inserted. Both configurations of the SRDFW are comprised of a securing and release assembly having a first side member, a second side member, an upper jaw, a center wedge and a lower jaw. Pivot rods extend outward from the jaws and the wedge. The pivot rods allow the jaws and the wedge to pivot into an open configuration to allow webbing to be inserted into/through the first assembly, and then to pivot into a closed position that locks the webbing within the assembly. The jaws and wedge can then pivot to remove the webbing.