Double-Locking Buckle with Dual Levers for Inadvertent Opening Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening buckles for climbing and work-at-height applications fail to prevent inadvertent opening, particularly under load, due to complex and time-consuming unlocking mechanisms that require multiple actions and do not guarantee reliable locking.
Innovation Solution
A fastening buckle design featuring two independent locking elements with pivotally mounted levers, each with a stopper and operating button, allowing simultaneous actuation to prevent inadvertent opening and ensuring double locking of the retaining ring, even under load, using a return spring and ramp mechanism for secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single locking element with a tilting latch is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of preventing inadvertent opening deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking elements (first and second locking elements) that operate separately. Each locking element has its own stopper and operating button, creating redundant safety layers. This segmentation ensures that a single inadvertent action cannot release the retaining ring, as both locking elements must be actuated simultaneously.
2Reliability
If two distinct consecutive actions are required for unlocking, then the reliability of preventing inadvertent opening is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The two locking elements are positioned such that their operating buttons can be actuated simultaneously by a single hand motion. The buttons are arranged on opposite sides of the buckle, allowing the user to press both with thumbs or fingers in one coordinated action. This merging of the two required actions into a single simultaneous operation maintains reliability while improving ease of use.
3Ease of operation
If the locking elements are arranged in alignment in the transverse direction with buttons protruding on either side, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of locking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of arranging the operating buttons in a simple transverse alignment that could be accidentally activated, the buttons are positioned on opposite sides of the buckle body, requiring deliberate bilateral action. The stoppers are arranged to engage with the hook in a way that provides mechanical interlocking, adding a spatial dimension to the locking reliability that goes beyond simple button placement.
4Device complexity
If a single operating button is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the time required for opening the loop increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two locking elements are pre-positioned and spring-loaded so that both stoppers are ready to engage or disengage simultaneously. The return springs maintain constant readiness of the locking mechanism, allowing for rapid simultaneous actuation of both locking elements when the buttons are pressed, thus minimizing the time required to open the loop while maintaining the dual-locking structure.
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 buckle provides reliable and easy release of the retaining ring with both hands without load and prevents involuntary release, ensuring secure attachment and detachment by requiring simultaneous action of both buttons, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring is associated with each pivoting lever to urge it towards the raised blocking position
Implementation Method 2
The lever of each locking element may be provided with a ramp on which the retaining ring bears during its insertion into the hook
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
A fastening loop (10) includes a base (11) with a hook (12) for attaching a retaining ring (13), and control means capable of occupying a locked position and an unlocked position, respectively, to retain and release the retaining ring (13) in the hook (12). The control means comprise two independent locking elements, each having a stop (16) and an operating button. The locking elements (EV1, EV2) are formed by two levers (20) pivotally mounted inside the cover (15), the stop (16) being arranged at one end of each lever (20), and the operating button (17) at the other end. The ring (13) can be detached when there is no load, and when the buttons (17) of the two levers (20) are simultaneously activated towards the unlock position.