Elastic Tag Anchor With Deflectable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching informational cards to merchandise are time-consuming and insecure, as string or plastic ties require twisting and do not allow for easy replacement or secure attachment.
Innovation Solution
A flexible and elastic tag anchor with a loop and deflectable anchor, comprising a shank, opposed arms, and a crown, which can be easily assembled and disassembled by inserting the crown into a hole and deflecting the arms through, providing a secure attachment without the need for twisting or tying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If string or plastic ties are used to couple a card with a product, then the card can be attached to the product, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tag anchor is divided into distinct functional segments: a loop portion for attaching to the product, an anchor portion with deflectable arms for securing to the card, and a crown for insertion. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick assembly without twisting or tying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor arms are designed to be deflectable, allowing them to flex during insertion and then return to a fixed position to secure the card. This dynamic characteristic enables the arms to pass through the card hole easily and then lock into place, providing secure attachment without time-consuming manual manipulation.
2Productivity
If string or plastic ties are used to secure a card to a product, then the card can be attached, but the attachment does not provide secure and reliable fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The crown is inserted into the card hole first, followed by the anchor arms which pass through the same hole and nest around the crown. The arms position themselves around the crown and card edges, creating a nested structure that provides secure fixation. This nesting arrangement ensures the card is firmly held between the arms and the loop without requiring twisting or complex tying.
3Reliability
If traditional ties are used, then cards can be attached to products, but replacement and updates become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The deflectable arms can be manually flexed outward to release their grip on the card, allowing for easy removal and replacement. This dynamic feature enables quick card updates while maintaining secure attachment during normal use, as the arms return to their fixed position to hold the card firmly in place.
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
Enables quick and secure assembly and disassembly of the tag anchor to cards and objects, eliminating the need for twisting or tying, and allowing for easy updates by providing a reliable and efficient attachment mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic loop having opposed outer and inner surfaces, and an elastic anchor extending radially from the elastic loop
Data Source
AI summary
A tag anchor comprises an elastic loop having opposed outer and inner surfaces and an elastic anchor that extends radially from the elastic loop. The anchor includes a shank that extends from one of the outer and inner surfaces and a pair of opposed arms that extend laterally from the shank toward the elastic loop and which are sized to not contact one of the surfaces when deflected toward the shank. The anchor further includes a crown that extends radially from the shank.