Adjustable Buckle Assembly With Rigid Central Bar Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable strap fasteners or buckles are prone to failure due to malleable central cross bars, which limits their ability to withstand higher loads and maintain stability under pressure.
Innovation Solution
A buckle design featuring removable ends with spring-loaded locking pins, enclosed grease wells, and adjustable loop ends with recessed slots and tabs for enhanced stability and durability, allowing the use of stronger materials like 17-4 stainless steel for the central bar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If malleable cross bars are used to allow deformation and straightening for fitting within the adjustable loop end, then ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but reliability and durability deteriorate due to proneness to failure with continued use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from malleable to rigid, eliminating the need for deformation while maintaining fit through precision manufacturing. This resolves the contradiction by prioritizing reliability over ease of deformation, using rigid materials that don't fatigue from repeated bending.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary action by pre-forming the central bar to the exact dimensions needed, eliminating the need for field deformation. The bar is manufactured to fit precisely within the adjustable loop end without requiring bending or shaping during assembly or use.
2Strength
If stronger materials are used for the central bar to withstand higher loads, then load capacity and durability are improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to difficulty in deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from malleable to rigid, enabling the use of high-strength materials like 17-4 stainless steel. This resolves the contradiction by eliminating the deformation requirement, allowing stronger materials to be used without compromising manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-forming the central bar to exact specifications during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field deformation. This allows stronger materials to be used while maintaining ease of manufacture through precision pre-forming rather than field bending.
3Reliability
If the central bar is made rigid to prevent deformation and improve durability, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates as it cannot be deformed to fit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from malleable to rigid, resolving the contradiction by making the central bar non-deformable for reliability while achieving adaptability through precision manufacturing and modular design that allows replacement rather than field deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-forming the central bar to exact dimensions during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field deformation. This allows rigid, reliable bars to be manufactured with precise dimensions for different applications, maintaining adaptability through pre-manufactured variations rather than field adaptability.
4Reliability
If spring-loaded locking pins with enclosed grease wells are used to secure ends, then reliability and stability under load are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the locking pin assembly: the spring provides continuous engagement force, the grease well provides lubrication and corrosion protection, and the pin provides the locking function. This resolves the contradiction by combining these elements into a single integrated component that improves reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses self-service through the enclosed grease well that automatically lubricates the locking mechanism and protects against corrosion without external intervention. The spring automatically maintains engagement force, eliminating the need for external adjustment or maintenance during normal operation.
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 buckle design provides improved load capacity and durability by minimizing deformation, reducing corrosion, and enhancing alignment and stability under external loads.
Implementation Method 1
one end comprises two opposing locking pins coupled together by a spring. The spring is encased within a fully enclosed grease well or cavity and the pins are operable to move in a lateral direction in and out of the grease well. When extended, the spring-loaded pins protrude in a lateral direction beyond the exterior surface of the end of the buckle.
Implementation Method 2
The spring is encased within a fully enclosed grease well or cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A buckle and method of assembly is disclosed. The buckle may include one or more plugs attached to the adjustable loop end to secure the central bar in place during use. Alternatively, each end of the buckle may a plurality of overlapping tabs that guide the ends of the buckle for fastening and aid in the stability of the buckle.