Bracelet Clasp Spacer Prevents Lateral Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracelet clasps are prone to easy opening when pressure is applied to a single pusher accompanied by simultaneous pressure on the opposite side of the yoke, compromising security against theft.
Innovation Solution
A bracelet clasp design featuring a first and second folding blade with branches and a clevis, incorporating a spacer that prevents lateral displacement of the clevis, ensuring the clasp remains locked unless both pushers are actuated simultaneously, and utilizing a locking mechanism with hooks to maintain the blades in a secure closed position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single pusher is pressed accompanied by simultaneous pressure on the opposite side of the yoke, then the clasp can be opened easily, but this compromises security against theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spacer as an intermediary element between the pusher and the yoke. This spacer acts as a mediator that transmits force only when both pushers are pressed simultaneously, preventing the harmful effect of opening the clasp when only one pusher is pressed with lateral force on the yoke.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by designing the spacer to preemptively counteract lateral forces applied to the yoke. The spacer is positioned and dimensioned to prevent the yoke from displacing laterally before the unlocking mechanism can be activated, thereby preventing unauthorized opening attempts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the clevis has clearance for movement, then the structure allows flexibility, but this enables unauthorized opening by lateral pressure on the yoke
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different degrees of freedom to different parts of the mechanism. The clevis maintains rotational freedom for normal operation, while the spacer locally restricts lateral displacement of the yoke, creating a differentiated mobility pattern that ensures security without compromising functional flexibility.
3Reliability
If the spacer is positioned to prevent lateral displacement, then security is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force transmission path by introducing the spacer as a separate component between the pusher and the yoke. This segmentation allows the spacer to independently control lateral displacement while the rest of the mechanism maintains its original simplicity, thereby enhancing security without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracelet clasp includes three strips, and a cover hinged to one of the strips. The clasp is provided with first and second push-pieces and with a safety device preventing lateral movement of the cover causing the clasp to unlock when pressure is simultaneously exerted both on a push-piece and on a flap of the cover opposite said push-piece. The safety device includes a spacer being received between the cover flaps, the ends of the spacer abutting against the cover flaps so as to prevent lateral movement of the cover causing the clasp to unlock when pressure is simultaneously exerted both on a push-piece and on a flap of the cover opposite the push-piece.