Cam Buckle Tie-Down with Integrated Quick-Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tie-down devices require the cam buckle to be secured or sewn to a specific location, limiting their adjustability and convenience when securing objects of varying sizes.
Innovation Solution
A buckle assembly with a cam-shaped locking button and serrated teeth, integrated with a pivoting member and biasing spring, allowing for secure attachment anywhere with loops or MOLLE mounting points, and a quick-release mechanism for easy detachment without removing the strap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cam buckle is secured or sewn to a specific location, then the device provides stable attachment, but the adjustability and convenience for securing objects of varying sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cam buckle mechanism directly into the strap by molding the buckle as an integral part of the strap assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate buckle components that need to be secured or sewn to specific locations, thereby providing adjustability while maintaining simple construction with fewer parts
Solution Approach 2:
The cam buckle mechanism is designed to be universally applicable by integrating it into the strap itself, allowing the same strap-buckle assembly to be used for securing various objects of different sizes. The buckle can engage with loops or MOLLE mounting points at different locations, providing multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized components
2Ease of operation
If the cam buckle is secured or sewn to one place on an object, then the connection is stable, but the convenience for tying down certain objects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cam buckle mechanism incorporates a pivoting member that allows dynamic adjustment and engagement at different positions. The cam-shaped locking button can pivot to engage with serrated teeth at various locations on the strap, enabling the user to adjust the attachment point according to the specific object being secured while maintaining reliable connection through the cam locking mechanism
3Ease of operation
If a quick-release mechanism is added for easy detachment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam buckle mechanism is designed to be self-releasing through the natural operation of the cam and biasing member. When the cam-shaped locking button is released, the biasing member automatically pushes the cam to disengage from the serrated teeth, providing quick release functionality without requiring additional complex mechanisms or manual intervention beyond simply releasing the cam button
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 secure, adjustable, and convenient attachment of loads to objects, allowing for easy removal without disengaging the strap, improving usability and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member is carried on the pivoting member... the locking button having a central bore formed therethrough and receiving the pivoting member. A row of serrated teeth is provided on the locking button on a projecting surface thereof, the serrated teeth biased downwardly by the biasing member into substantial engagement with the second end wall
Data Source
AI summary
A tie-down device for securing a load to another object has a buckle assembly that includes an outer housing having two parallel side walls, a bridge, and first and second end walls connected to the side walls. A pivoting member extends through the side walls. The buckle assembly further includes a cam-shaped locking button which is located on the pivoting member and is normally biased by a biasing member into a locked position, the locking button having a central bore formed therethrough and receiving the pivoting member. A row of serrated teeth is provided on the locking button and is biased downwardly by the biasing member into substantial engagement with the second end wall. A hook extends from the first end wall and has a bar that defines a space with the first end wall. The hook is provided in the same piece and same material as the outer housing.