Electronic Tag Latch Mechanism for Secure Strap Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage tags, particularly those with printed or handwritten information, are limited in the amount of personal information they can convey and often become outdated, and electronic tags face challenges in effective attachment to luggage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic tag with a strap and ratchet latch mechanism that secures to luggage handles, featuring a wireless RF receiver, processor, and a programmable display that updates without power, using NFC for data transfer and maintaining images post-power-off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ratchet latch mechanism is used to secure the strap to the electronic tag, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states dynamically, allowing the strap to be securely fastened during normal use and easily removed when needed. This dynamic state change provides reliable attachment while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet latch mechanism automatically locks the strap in place through its own mechanical action when the latch is closed, without requiring additional fastening steps or external forces. The tensioning arm and ratchet teeth work together to self-secure the attachment.
2Reliability
If a tensioning arm is added to urge the strap forward into the channel, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning arm is pre-positioned to automatically engage the strap and urge it forward into the channel as the latch closes. This preliminary action ensures proper strap positioning and tensioning before the locking action occurs, improving attachment reliability without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the latch is designed to lock the strap in place when closed, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is extracted as a separate functional element that can be independently activated. By providing a dedicated release mechanism, the user can easily open the latch without having to apply significant force or perform complex manipulation, thus maintaining ease of operation while preserving secure locking during normal use.
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
Provides a secure, efficient, and updatable means of identifying luggage with a display that retains information without continuous power, enhancing luggage identification and tracking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless radiofrequency (RF) receiver
Implementation Method 2
using NFC for data transfer
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic tag comprises a body housing a wireless radiofrequency (RF) receiver and a processor that is in communication with the wireless RF receiver. The body has an opening therein. The opening leads to a channel in the body sized to receive a section of a strap or similar mechanical fastener. The body has a latch or similar means for clasping this strap. The latch is coupled to the body to move between a closed position and an open position. An underside of the latch has a tensioning arm attached thereto. The tensioning arm presses against the strap and urging the strap forward into the channel when the latch is moved toward the closed position and disengaging from the strap when the latch is moved into the open position. The latch locks the strap in place when in the closed position.