C-Shaped Clip Fastener for Rapid Ballistic Vest Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ballistic vests have complex systems for donning and doffing, which are time-consuming and heavy, and their rapid release mechanisms are cumbersome to reassemble, especially in challenging conditions, and may malfunction in adverse environments.
Innovation Solution
A C-shaped clip and pin assembly with a detent element that allows for quick and secure attachment and detachment of garment components, providing a quiet and rapid operation for both standard and emergency situations, while minimizing weight and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If complex systems of belts and straps are used for donning and doffing ballistic vests, then secure attachment is achieved, but the operation becomes time-consuming and the device becomes heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The vest system is divided into modular components (front panel, rear panel, cummerbund) that can be independently assembled and disassembled using simple pin-and-clip connectors, eliminating the need for complex continuous belting systems while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of secure attachment from complex multi-component belt and strap systems, replacing them with simplified pin-and-clip connectors that provide equivalent security with minimal complexity and time requirement
2Speed
If rapid release mechanisms are added to existing vest systems, then emergency removal speed is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rapid release function is merged with the normal donning and doffing mechanism by using the same pin-and-clip connectors for both standard operation and emergency release, eliminating the need for separate rapid release systems and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The pin-and-clip connector system serves multiple functions: it provides secure attachment during normal wear, enables rapid doffing through simple pin removal, and allows quick reassembly, making the system universal for both standard and emergency operations without requiring additional components
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional rapid release systems are integrated with normal donning systems, then emergency release capability is achieved, but the vest weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the emergency release capability with the standard donning system by using identical pin-and-clip connectors for both functions, eliminating the need for additional rapid release components and thereby preventing weight increase
Data Source
AI summary
The assembly and release apparatus and method utilizes a C-shaped clip defining a channel and a smaller slot extending along the channel, both open at at least one end, attachable to a first location on a garment. A pin of the apparatus is slidably receivable in the channel through the open end to assemble the C-shaped clip and the pin together. The pin has a tab or strip that extends through the slot, for attaching the pin to a second location on the garment. The apparatus includes at least one detent element associated with one of the C-shaped clip and the pin, cooperatively engageable with the other of the C-shaped clip and the pin for retaining the pin in the channel, and releasable in a predetermined manner to allow slidably removing the pin from the channel through the open end, to provide a quiet and rapid manner of operation.