Bracelet Clasp With Articulated Arms And Interlocking Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bracelet clasps are difficult to handle for adjusting length and lack secure locking, often requiring fingernail operation and being prone to unlocking during wear.

Innovation Solution

A clasp with four articulated branches that move from a deployed to a closed position, featuring toothed wheel meshing and locking mechanisms, allowing easy adjustment and secure locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional hinged base plate with lateral locking means is used, then the clasp structure is simple to implement, but the clasp is difficult to operate and not securely locked

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidclasp mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clasp is divided into four separate articulated arms that can move independently yet cooperatively. Each arm is pivotally connected to the bracelet strand and to adjacent arms, allowing the clasp to be segmented into manageable units that simplify operation while maintaining overall functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The four articulated arms are combined with interlocking means at their free ends, merging the functions of movement and locking into a single integrated mechanism. This combination allows the arms to move freely during adjustment and automatically lock when folded against the bracelet, eliminating the need for separate locking operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If a traditional lateral locking mechanism is used, then the clasp structure is simple, but the locking is not secure and the cover can unlock during wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The interlocking means at the free ends of the arms automatically engage when the arms are folded against the bracelet, creating a self-locking mechanism. The user simply needs to fold the arms into position, and the interlocking means take over to secure the clasp, eliminating the need for separate locking actions and reducing the risk of accidental unlocking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The clasp transitions from a static locked position to a dynamic adjustable position and back to a secured locked position. The articulated arms can move freely during adjustment but automatically assume a fixed, locked configuration when folded against the bracelet, providing both flexibility and security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the clasp uses four articulated arms with interlocking means, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidnumber of articulated components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each articulated arm serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables movement for adjustment, and participates in the locking mechanism through its free end interlocking means. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, offsetting the increased complexity of having four articulated arms with integrated capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4005427B1Clasp for a bracelet or belt
Publication Date: 2024.03.27 DRESS YOUR BODY SA
  • EP4005427B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4005427B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4b

AI summary

The invention relates to a bracelet clasp comprising at least one set of four arms articulated relative to each other so that the clasp can move from a first position, called the deployed position, in which the arms are oriented radially outwards from the bracelet, to a second position, called the closed position, in which the arms are folded against each other so as to be placed under the bracelet, said set of four articulated arms comprising two compasses formed of two arms joined by a joint, the free end of the arms being pivotally mounted, to a first and a second strand of the bracelet.