Whip Shaft Planar Fin Flapper Anti-Twist Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing riding crops or whips face issues with the flapper twisting around the shaft during use, leading to an insecure and uncomfortable grip, and the impact force is not evenly distributed due to the cylindrical shape of the shaft.
Innovation Solution
A whip design featuring a shaft with a planar fin at the end, sheathed with a flapper, where the fin is securely attached to prevent twisting, providing a broader base for the flapper to spread the impact force and ensuring a cushioned yet secure grip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the flapper is loosely fitted over the cylindrical shaft, then the grip is comfortable, but the flapper twists during use and becomes insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a planar fin at the end of the shaft, transforming the symmetric cylindrical shape into an asymmetric structure. The flapper is fitted over this finned end, creating an asymmetric fit that prevents twisting while maintaining comfort. The fin acts as a stabilizing element that stops the flapper from rotating around the shaft.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional element by introducing a planar fin that extends radially from the cylindrical shaft. This transforms the one-dimensional cylindrical surface into a two-dimensional structure with radial extension, providing a broader base for the flapper and preventing twisting through the added geometric dimension.
2Device complexity
If the shaft is cylindrical, then the structure is simple, but the impact force is not evenly distributed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding the fin only at the specific location where impact occurs (the end of the shaft), rather than changing the entire shaft structure. This localized modification provides even force distribution at the impact point while maintaining the simplicity of the cylindrical shaft elsewhere.
Solution Approach 2:
By adding the planar fin that extends radially from the cylindrical shaft, the patent introduces an additional dimension to the structure. This transforms the impact surface from a one-dimensional cylindrical edge to a two-dimensional area, allowing impact force to be distributed across a broader base.
3Reliability
If the flapper is tightly fitted to prevent twisting, then security is improved, but comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric fin structure provides mechanical prevention of twisting without requiring tight fitting. The fin acts as a physical stop that prevents rotation, allowing the flapper to be fitted loosely for comfort while still maintaining security against twisting through the asymmetric geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
A whip comprising a shaft having a first and second end, the shaft being arranged to provide a handle at the first end and a flapper located at the second end. The shaft comprises at least one planar fin located at the second end of the shaft, the fin being at least partially sheathed with the flapper.