Collar and Retaining Clip for Portable Device Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing equipment for securing portable communications devices to clothing often impedes device functionality, particularly for emergency services personnel wearing protective gear, and fails to remain securely attached during charging.
Innovation Solution
A collar and retaining clip system that securely attaches to a portable communications device without obstructing controls or displays, allowing for easy operation even with protective gloves, and remains attached during charging by using a circumferential collar with inwardly-tapered surfaces and a retaining clip that restricts motion, ensuring unimpeded access and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a portable communications device is secured to an article of clothing using existing equipment, then the device becomes accessible to the user, but the equipment obstructs viewing of the display and impedes device functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into separate functional components: a collar that attaches to the device and a separate retaining clip that secures the collar to clothing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the collar can be positioned to avoid display obstruction while the retaining clip provides secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary component between the portable device and the clothing. It provides a mounting interface on the device while offering attachment points for the retaining clip, thereby mediating the connection and allowing the device to be secured without direct attachment mechanisms that would obstruct the display.
2Reliability
If existing securing equipment is used, then the device can be attached to clothing, but the equipment fails to remain securely attached during charging and rapid movement
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip incorporates a spring mechanism that provides dynamic adjustment and maintenance of securing force. The spring allows the clip to adapt to different positions and movements, maintaining reliable attachment during charging and rapid movement without requiring a rigid, inflexible connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple securing mechanisms into a unified attachment system: the collar's mechanical interface with the device, the retaining clip's spring-loaded clamping action, and the overall configuration that works together to provide reliable attachment across various activities including charging and rapid movement.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a securing system is designed to remain attached during charging, then operational continuity is maintained, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded retaining clip is designed to maintain its own securing force automatically through the spring mechanism. The spring continuously applies clamping force without requiring external power, control systems, or complex adjustment mechanisms, thereby achieving prolonged attachment duration with relatively simple construction.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a collar, which may be adapted for removably securing a portable device to a user, are disclosed. In embodiments, the collar may be secured to the portable device, wherein a retaining clip may be inserted into a receiving volume which restricts movement of a claw in contact with a surface of the portable communications device.