Compact Key Ring With Tension-Based Catch And Rigid Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key ring systems lack simplicity, compactness, security, and reliability in managing and organizing keys, and are often costly.
Innovation Solution
A compact key ring design featuring a ring portion with a rigid loop and a catch affixed to one end, where the catch and loop can be oriented in various planes to secure engagement, using wire electro discharge machining (EDM) from a single metal piece, such as titanium, to provide tension-based securement and prevent inadvertent disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional spring coiled key rings are used, then keys can be stored and organized, but the device lacks security and reliability as keys can easily detach
Solution Approach 1:
The key ring employs a dynamic spring-loaded catch mechanism that automatically engages with the rigid loop when keys are added. The catch moves between engaged and disengaged states based on the presence of keys, providing reliable retention without complex manual operation. The spring force ensures the catch maintains secure engagement while allowing easy addition/removal of keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The key ring system is self-regulating through the spring-loaded catch that automatically engages with the rigid loop when keys are placed on the ring. The mechanism self-adjusts to maintain secure engagement without requiring user intervention or complex control systems, thereby achieving reliable key retention with minimal complexity.
2Volume of moving object
If traditional key ring designs are used, then key storage is possible, but the devices are not compact and occupy excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid loop is designed to nest within the circular ring portion when not in use, creating a compact configuration. The loop can be stored inside the ring's inner circumference, minimizing the overall volume occupied by the key ring while maintaining full functionality for key storage and retrieval operations.
3Reliability
If simple key ring designs are used, then the structure is compact, but the reliability and security of key engagement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The key ring is segmented into distinct functional components: a circular ring portion for key storage, a rigid loop for engagement, and a spring-loaded catch for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness. The rigid loop and catch work together as a secure engagement mechanism without requiring excessive volume.
4Reliability
If conventional key ring materials and manufacturing methods are used, then production is simple, but the cost is high and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid loop and spring-loaded catch are combined into a single integrated component manufactured from titanium using wire electro discharge machining (EDM). This merging of components simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing assembly steps while simultaneously improving reliability through the use of high-strength titanium material that resists wear and corrosion over many uses.
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 offers a secure, efficient, and cost-effective method for managing keys, ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement while maintaining a compact form, reducing the likelihood of accidental key release.
Implementation Method 1
The ring portion and the catch can be wire electro discharge machining (EDM) cut from a single metal piece
Implementation Method 2
engaging the catch and the rigid loop holds tension between the first end and the second end to secure engagement of the catch and the rigid loop
Data Source
AI summary
A key ring comprising a ring portion having a first end and second end, a rigid loop affixed to the first end, and a catch affixed to the second end for securely engaging and disengaging the rigid loop affixed to the first end is disclosed. The rigid loop and the catch can be typically disposed apart from each other with the ring portion in a relaxed state such that engaging the catch and the rigid loop holds tension between the first end and the second end to secure engagement of the catch and the rigid loop. The catch can be a hook having a tip extending into an enclosed area of the hook. The catch and the rigid loop can be oriented either in or transverse to the plane of the ring portion.