Bracelet Clasp with Independent Length Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracelet clasps face challenges in providing a simple, tool-free mechanism for fine adjustment of bracelet length that maintains the adjustment when the clasp is opened, as they often require complex structures and risk damage during adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A bracelet clasp with a separate adjusting device that can be actuated independently of the locking mechanism, allowing length adjustment even when the clasp is closed, using a control member to unlock the clasp and a second control member to adjust the length, with a support structure and locks that define different usable lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional adjustment mechanism with holes and pointed tools is used, then the bracelet length can be adjusted, but the operation becomes difficult and risks damage to the cover
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical pointed tool insertion system with a push-button actuation system. The push-button (23) mechanically activates the locking member (21) to release the adjusting member (18), eliminating the need for pointed tools and reducing damage risk to the cover.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanism is designed to be self-operating through the push-button (23) that directly actuates the locking member (21). The system serves itself by allowing the user to simply press the button without requiring external tools or complex manipulation, making the adjustment process accessible to users of all skill levels.
2Ease of operation
If the clasp must be opened to adjust the length, then the adjustment can be made, but the adjustment is lost each time the clasp is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the adjustment function from the clasp opening/closing function. The adjusting member (18) and its locking mechanism are segmented as independent components that can be operated separately from the main clasp blades. This allows the adjusting member to be repositioned while the clasp remains closed, preventing loss of adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member (21) is designed with dynamic states - locked and unlocked - that can be transitioned independently of the clasp opening/closing action. The push-button (23) enables dynamic control of the locking member's state, allowing users to unlock, adjust, and re-lock the adjusting member without affecting the clasp's closed state.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to maintain adjustment, then the adjustment is secured, but the device structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustment locking function from the main clasp locking mechanism. The locking member (21) is a separate, dedicated component specifically for securing the adjusting member (18), rather than being integrated into the blade interlocking system. This simplification reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining reliable adjustment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member (21) is positioned locally at the adjusting member (18) where it is needed, rather than requiring a global complex mechanism throughout the clasp. This localized approach provides secure adjustment locking with minimal additional complexity, as the locking function is concentrated at the specific point where adjustment occurs.
4Measurement precision
If fine adjustment is provided with multiple positions, then the precision of length adjustment improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting member (18) is pre-configured with multiple predetermined positions marked by notches (20) on the slot (19). These positions are prepared in advance during manufacturing, allowing users to simply select from predefined options rather than requiring complex continuous adjustment mechanisms. This achieves fine adjustment precision with minimal device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves fine adjustment by changing the positional parameter of the adjusting member (18) along the slot (19) to different discrete locations marked by notches (20). Each notch represents a specific length parameter, allowing precise adjustment of bracelet length through simple positional changes rather than complex mechanical configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracelet clasp including an easily manipulated device of simple structure for adjusting the usable length of the bracelet by a firm adjustment, including when the clasp is open. The adjusting device is separate from the locking member, and the lock is arranged to move from its closed state to its open state by the user acting on the control member of the locking member such that the adjusting device is capable of being shifted independently of the open or closed state of the clasp. The clasp has a discrete structure, since it is actuated by the control member already provided for unlocking the clasp, although it is separate from the locking member of the clasp, and this additionally allows the length of the bracelet to be adjusted even when the clasp is in its closed state.