Bracelet Link Pin Locking Mechanism for Reversible Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracelet technologies with articulated links face challenges in allowing easy length adjustment without losing components, and existing solutions are either complex, expensive, or prone to accidental disassembly due to small screws.
Innovation Solution
A reversible assembly system for bracelet links using a locking element with a non-cylindrical portion that can be rotated to secure or release the pin, preventing accidental disassembly and ensuring the locking element remains associated with the link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If small fixing screws are used to secure pins in bracelet links, then the assembly system is simple and links can be added or removed, but the screws are easily lost and can accidentally unscrew during wear
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a locking element as an intermediary component between the pin and the link. This locking element engages with the pin through a locking surface and groove, providing secure retention without requiring small exposed screws. The locking element acts as a mediator that prevents direct contact between the pin and external forces, eliminating the risk of accidental unscrewing and loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be self-retaining within the link structure. It features a non-cylindrical portion that fits into a recess in the pin, creating a self-locking mechanism that maintains the pin's transverse position without requiring additional fastening elements. The locking element serves itself by using its own geometry to prevent disassembly.
2Reliability
If complex reversible assembly devices with multiple intermediate elements are used, then pins can be securely held, but the device becomes very complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate elements from the assembly system. Instead of using covers, multiple locking elements, and complex mechanisms, the solution uses a single integrated locking element that performs all necessary functions: securing the pin, preventing transverse movement, and enabling reversible assembly. This extraction of excess components directly reduces complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element combines multiple functions into a single component: it acts as both a retaining element and a locking mechanism, integrates directly with the link structure, and provides both security and reversibility. By merging these functions into one element rather than using separate components, the invention achieves reliable pin retention with minimal complexity.
3Ease of operation
If pins are allowed to move transversely for easy assembly, then links can be easily connected, but the pins cannot be held in place once assembled
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element provides dynamic control over pin movement. During assembly, the pin can move freely for insertion. Once assembled, the locking element engages with the pin's locking groove to prevent transverse movement. The system transitions from a dynamic (movable) state during assembly to a static (fixed) state during operation, providing both ease of assembly and operational stability.
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 simple and effective length adjustment of bracelets without losing components, ensuring the locking mechanism remains secure even when worn, preventing accidental disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
the locking element being arranged in a first and second link so as to be able to be rotated around its axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
the locking element has a non-cylindrical portion, relative to said axis of rotation, an outer part of which is located at least partially in a recess arranged in the cylindrical surface of the pin
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The bracelet is formed of a plurality of links (4, 5) assembled in an articulated manner by means of pins (8). Each pin passes through interlocking portions of links in which a cylindrical channel is arranged, allowing the pin to slide relatively freely. To secure the pin's position once the links are assembled, a locking element (12) is arranged in a cavity (18) made in one of the links so as to partially intercept the channel in which the pin is located. This pin includes a groove (22) into which an external portion (35) of the locking element enters when it is in a closed position. By pressing on the locking element and then rotating it through an angle of 90°, the external portion of the pin is disengaged from the groove, thus releasing the pin.The pin locking device therefore allows for a reversible assembly of the links and in particular to vary the length of the bracelet by adding or removing at least one link.