Closure Device with Magnetic Pivot and Arc Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices are not secure against unintentional opening when subjected to loads in any direction, lacking a mechanism to absorb such loads without releasing the connection.
Innovation Solution
The closure device features guiding sections with a circular arc shape on both connecting modules, arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, which allows for a load application point closer to the axis than the magnetic means, creating a lever arm that enables the device to absorb loads in any direction without opening, and includes an emergency release mechanism when a predetermined load is exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the closure device uses magnetic means to support the transfer of connecting modules in the closed position, then the closure can occur almost automatically and opening is haptically comfortable, but the device is not secure against unintentional opening when loads act in the opening direction
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into two connecting modules (first and second), each with distinct functional elements. The first connecting module contains the magnetic means and guiding section, while the second contains the mechanical latch and corresponding guiding section. This segmentation allows independent optimization of magnetic attraction for easy closing and mechanical latching for secure holding, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding sections are formed with a circular arc shape concentric to a pivot axis, creating a curved path of movement for the load application point. This curvature allows the load to follow an arc-shaped trajectory during opening, while the magnetic means positioned at a greater radius provide a stabilizing moment that prevents unintentional opening under normal loads, yet allows controlled opening when deliberately actuated.
2Reliability
If the load application point is positioned closer to the pivot axis than the magnetic means, then the device can absorb loads in any direction without unintentional opening, but the lever arm for opening force is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The solution transitions from a linear force balance to a two-dimensional moment balance around the pivot axis. By positioning the magnetic means at a greater radius than the load application point, the system creates a moment arm difference that provides rotational stability. The magnetic attraction force acts at a larger radius, creating a stabilizing moment that counteracts the opening moment from loads applied at smaller radii, enabling the device to absorb loads in any direction while maintaining ease of opening through the curved guiding path.
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 design provides a secure, easy-to-open closure that can withstand significant loads in any direction without unintentional release, with an emergency release function activated only when the load exceeds a defined limit, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic means are provided, which cause a magnetic attraction force between the connecting modules for supporting the transfer of the connecting modules in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device for connecting two parts includes a first connecting module and a second connecting module. The first connecting module can be arranged on the second connecting module in a closing direction and is mechanically latched with the second connecting module in a closed position. The device also includes magnetic means which cause a magnetic attraction force between the first connecting module and the second connecting module to support the transfer of the first connecting module into the closed position. The first connecting module can be released from the second connecting module by means of a movement of the first connecting module or a part of the first connecting module in an opening direction that differs from the closing direction. The magnetic means counteract a movement of the first connecting module in the opening direction.