Interchangeable Bracelet Attachment With Elastic Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable devices with interchangeable straps are complex and costly to manufacture and maintain, requiring professional intervention for strap changes and repairs, leading to high replacement costs and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A portable object with a simple and quick attachment system featuring a locking piece with an elastic element, allowing easy insertion and attachment of the bracelet to the case, using a support with a main plate and parallel branches that cooperate with a groove on the caseband for secure fixation, enabling users to easily change or replace the bracelet without professional assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-loaded swivel mechanism with locking part and inclined cover is used for interchangeable straps, then the strap can be securely attached, but the device complexity increases significantly and manufacturing costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate functional components: a locking piece with elastic element integrated into the case, and a separate strap with insertion end. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system compared to integrated complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element automatically performs the locking function when the strap is inserted, eliminating the need for manual operation of complex spring-loaded mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the insertion action to trigger the elastic element's locking function, reducing mechanical complexity.
2Reliability
If a complex fastening system with multiple blades and springs is used, then the strap can be securely fixed, but the replacement time and cost increase when parts break
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system separates the elastic locking element from the strap body, allowing the elastic element to remain in the case while only the strap needs replacement. This reduces replacement time and cost when the strap wears out.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is designed to be replaceable and is positioned to allow easy access for replacement. By planning for potential failure beforehand, the system allows users to quickly replace worn elastic elements without professional intervention, reducing downtime.
3Reliability
If traditional metal axes and complex locking mechanisms are used, then the bracelet can be securely attached, but the ease of operation for users decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows users to attach and detach straps themselves without professional help. The elastic element automatically engages when the strap is inserted and can be released by simple manual manipulation, making the system self-servicing for end users.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical spring-loaded swivel mechanism is replaced with a simpler elastic element system that uses elastic deformation instead of complex mechanical linkages. This substitution maintains secure attachment while dramatically improving ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If significant transformations are made to the case and bracelet for interchangeable strap support, then the adaptability increases, but the manufacturing precision requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening functionality is segmented into a separate locking piece component that attaches to the case, rather than requiring permanent modifications to the case structure. This reduces manufacturing precision requirements for the case itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking piece with elastic element serves as a universal interface for different strap types. By creating a standardized fastening interface, the system achieves adaptability across multiple strap configurations without requiring custom modifications for each strap type.
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 allows for quick and cost-effective replacement of bracelets, reduces manufacturing complexity, and extends the lifespan of the device by allowing separate parts to be made from different materials, lowering overall costs and simplifying maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic element comprises a main plate from which extend two parallel branches folded so as to form, with the main plate, an angle greater than zero
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6
AI summary
The object (1) has two pairs of horns extended from a middle (4) of a case (2). The horns of each pair are connected by a guiding element (50) that defines a space in connection with the middle. A fixation unit (18) has a locking piece (20) inserted in each end of a strap (14), and a throat (22) located on the middle. The fixation unit permits the ends of the strap to be inserted into the space such that the locking piece elastically cooperates with the throat to simply fix the strap to the case. The locking piece has a support (24) and an elastic element (38) formed as a single piece. The support is made of rigid and light metal or alloy, and the elastic element is made of flexible metal or alloy.