Band Clasp Extension Link Structure for Easy Length Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bands attached to devices like watches lack efficient mechanisms for easily adjusting length between normal wear and wear over thick fabrics, such as wetsuits, without compromising reliability and durability.
Innovation Solution
A clasp design featuring a U-shaped first extension link rotatably supported at one end of the clasp cover and a second extension link connected via a spring bar, allowing for compact storage and easy extension of the band length by pulling out the second link from the clasp cover without releasing the connected state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring bar connected to a band link is slidable in a longitudinal direction of the band within a sliding window of a length adjusting plate, then fine adjustment of the band length is possible, but the adjustment mechanism becomes complex and prone to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The extension link is divided into a first extension link and a second extension link that can be independently manipulated. The first link remains fixed to the clasp cover while the second link can be pulled out and extended, creating a segmented adjustment system that simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining adjustment functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The second extension link is disposed inside the first extension link when not in use, similar to nested dolls. This nesting arrangement allows the extension mechanism to be compact when not needed while providing easy access to the extendable portion when adjustment is required, reducing complexity compared to a fully exposed sliding mechanism
2Adaptability or versatility
If the band length is made adjustable for wearing over thick fabrics, then versatility is improved, but the reliability and durability of the connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The extension link is pre-configured with the first link fixed to the clasp cover and the second link ready to be extended. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when adjustment is needed, the user simply pulls the second link outward without compromising the secure connection of the first link to the clasp cover, maintaining reliability while providing versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The extension link transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic extendable structure. The first link maintains a fixed secure connection to the clasp cover, while the second link provides dynamic adjustability by being pullable outward, allowing the system to adapt between secure fixed state and versatile extended state
3Ease of operation
If the extension link is made pullable outward from the clasp cover, then ease of adjustment is improved, but the risk of accidental detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the extension link into two separate links with different connection methods, the system allows the second link to be easily pulled outward for adjustment while the first link remains securely fixed to the clasp cover, creating a natural barrier against accidental detachment of the entire extension mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the extension link have different connection qualities: the first link has a fixed secure connection to the clasp cover that prevents detachment, while the second link has a movable connection that allows intentional extension. This local differentiation of connection qualities enables easy adjustment while preventing accidental complete detachment
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 easy and reliable adjustment of band length to accommodate different wear scenarios, maintaining durability and preventing accidental detachment, with reduced wear and tear, ensuring high reliability even under harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a second extension link connected to an open end side of the first extension link via a spring bar
Data Source
AI summary
A clasp including: a first extension link in which one end side is rotatably supported at one end of a clasp cover of a band; and a second extension link connected to a side opposite of the one end side of the first extension link via a connecting member, wherein, one of the first extension link or the second extension link is fixed to the other of the first extension link or the second extension link at a position different from a connected position in the connecting member, and the first extension link is fixed to the clasp cover at a position different from the one end of the clasp cover where the first extension link is rotatably supported.