A slat in a core shaft is used to lock a core that is placed over it. Five slats in a shaft are pushed outwards to provide friction between core and shaft. The problem is that the slats do not provide enough friction in combination with some core materials. This project aims to solve this problem.

The problem was studied by looking at the current situation, doing experiments and reading friction theory.

About thirty concepts were generated by competition analysis, going through the TRIZ databases, doing a patent survey, interviewing, brainstorming and making a combination table.

Two concepts were selected by screening and selection matrices. One concept is a rubber slat with a different shape than the current one, the other concept a laminate with an aluminum bottom and rubber top.

Prototypes were made for the rubber slat and they were tested, resulting in a technical drawing. This was used to order several meters of the slat so final testing can be done. A cost analysis was made.

For the laminate concept, the necessary strength of the aluminum part was calculated and the cost was examined.