Buckle Lock Ledge Interface Resists Unintended Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-part buckles face difficulties in resisting unintended release under load and can be challenging to release when loaded, due to bulky components and loose fits, which affect user perception of security and operational ease.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece buckle design with a lock ledge interface that transfers pulling force outward to urge lock arms toward the latching position, incorporating flexible arms and angled interfacing surfaces to facilitate easy latching and unlatching while resisting unintended release, using material efficiently for improved strength and snug fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bulky, thick components are used to improve resistance to unintended release, then the buckle strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the buckle becomes difficult to release when under load
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle is divided into separate male and female components with distinct functional elements. The male component includes lock arms with proximal and distal portions, while the female component has a pocket with window openings. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock ledge interface is positioned at a specific axial location between the window and the entrance opening, creating a new spatial dimension for force transfer. This positioning transforms the force vector from direct pulling to outward-directed force on the lock arms, changing the dimensional approach to the locking mechanism.
2Ease of manufacture
If large tolerances are used to overcome lock surface angles, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the stability of the object's composition deteriorates because the male and female components feel loosely fit and may rattle
Solution Approach 1:
The lock arms are designed to automatically deflect inwardly during insertion and then rebound outwardly to engage the lock ledge interface. This preliminary deflection and rebound action ensures positive engagement before the final locking position is reached, eliminating play and rattling.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometry of the lock ledge interface and interfacing surfaces is specifically designed to change the force vector direction. The interface is positioned and angled to convert pulling force into outward force on the lock arms, creating a mechanical advantage that eliminates the need for large tolerances while ensuring a snug fit.
3Strength
If engaging surfaces are directed angularly forward, then the strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because release requires driving the male member deeper into the female component, increasing the load
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the engaging surfaces angle forward in the direction of latching, the lock ledge interface is positioned and configured to create outward force on the lock arms during release. This inverted approach allows the release mechanism to work against the natural latching direction, reducing the force required to unlatch the buckle.
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
The buckle latches and unlatches easily even under load, resists unintended unlatching, and provides a secure, snug fit without play, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The proximal portion is a flexible segment for bending of the arm
Implementation Method 2
a lock ledge interface located so as to transfer pulling force against the buckle to the lock arms in an outward direction, to thereby urge the arms toward the latching position
Data Source
AI summary
A two-part buckle includes a male buckle component received in a female buckle component. Lock surfaces between the male and female buckle components are provided inwardly of flexible segments of the lock arms and axially between the flexible portion of the lock arm and accessible ends of the lock arms depressed for unlatching the buckle. The lock surfaces angle toward the disengaged positions in the direction of arm movement for unlatching.