Camera Strap Attachment Mechanism Using Spring-Locked Modular Anchor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera strap attachment systems using friction mechanisms are cumbersome, making it difficult to attach or remove straps, and the use of short webbing sections with male buckles can be bulky and prone to accidental release.
Innovation Solution
A male/female connection system featuring a cord overmolded into a plastic disc with varying diameters, a spring-locked housing, and a method for attaching to webbing or other objects, allowing secure and easy attachment and removal of straps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a friction mechanism is used to attach webbing to a camera, then the strap can be attached, but it becomes cumbersome and difficult to attach or remove
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is divided into separate modular components: a camera-mounted unit with a female receptacle and a strap-mounted unit with a male anchor. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex friction mechanisms while enabling simple push-to-attach and release operations, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
2Volume of moving object
If short webbing sections with male buckles are used, then the strap can be removed, but the male buckle and short sections become bulky compared to the camera
Solution Approach 1:
The male anchor features a compact disc-shaped design that nests within the female receptacle when attached. The anchor's smaller diameter portion fits inside the larger diameter portion, creating a space-efficient connection that minimizes bulk while maintaining full removability and adaptability.
3Reliability
If short webbing sections with male buckles are used, then the strap can be removed, but the side release buckle can be accidentally released with too much tension
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded detent mechanism applies preliminary counteracting force to prevent accidental release. The spring continuously pushes the anchor toward the engaged position, creating a pre-existing counter-force that opposes any tensile force attempting to disengage the strap, thereby enhancing reliability without compromising ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides continuous mechanical feedback by maintaining constant contact force between the anchor and receptacle. This feedback ensures the strap remains securely engaged under tension while still allowing intentional release when sufficient force is applied by the user, balancing reliability and ease of operation.
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 solution provides a secure, easy-to-use, and space-efficient method for attaching and detaching camera straps, preventing accidental release and addressing bulkiness issues, while being adaptable to various objects beyond cameras.
Implementation Method 1
the housing containing a spring which locks the anchor into a specific place within the housing
Implementation Method 2
the anchor including a cord that is overmolded into a plastic disc
Data Source
AI summary
A male/female connection system is disclosed. The system is specifically designed as a novel way of attaching straps to cameras. The device includes a male attachment anchor with an overmolded loop, as well as a female housing inclusive of a spring to lock the male and the female together. The anchor connects to a camera at the neck strap loops using a cow hitch knot. The anchor connects to the housing by entering an open end, and being pulled through to an end where it is strapped. A strap connects to the housing by way of a loop being sewn around it.