Compact Folding Buckle Clasp Using Spring Bar Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding buckle clasps for jewelry and watch bracelets are complex and not very compact due to the large size required for their locking systems, particularly the latches inside the cover.
Innovation Solution
A compact folding buckle clasp design featuring a spring bar with retractable studs and push buttons, where the studs protrude from a tubular body and are maintained in a moved-out position by a return force, allowing secure locking and easy opening by user action, with the cap's beveled surface facilitating automatic retraction when folded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latches and pushbuttons are used in the cover, then the locking function is achieved, but the device size increases and compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the cover by using a separate spring bar with retractable studs that engages with the cap. This removes the need for complex latch mechanisms inside the cover, significantly reducing its size while maintaining reliable locking through the stud-opening engagement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is segmented into distinct functional components: the spring bar with retractable studs for locking, the cap with openings for engagement, and pushbuttons for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the cover being compact since it only needs to house the cap and openings, not the entire locking mechanism.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact design is implemented, then the device size is reduced, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the spring bar component: it provides the locking studs, houses the return spring mechanism, and interfaces with the pushbuttons. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts needed, simplifying the overall mechanism while achieving compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring bar automatically returns the retractable studs to their locking position through the integrated return spring mechanism after the cap is released. This self-service feature eliminates the need for additional reset mechanisms or complex control systems, simplifying the locking mechanism while maintaining compact size.
3Reliability
If retractable studs with return force are used, then secure locking is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring in the spring bar provides a cushioning force that ensures the retractable studs reliably return to their locking position within the cap openings. This pre-loaded spring mechanism compensates for variations in manufacturing tolerances and ensures consistent locking engagement without requiring extremely tight precision control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses elastic deformation of the spring bar and its integrated spring to create a forceful, reliable engagement between the studs and cap openings. By changing from a rigid, precision-dependent mechanical linkage to an elastic, force-driven system, the locking security is enhanced while tolerance requirements are relaxed.
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 provides a compact and secure locking mechanism that is easy to operate, ensuring reliable closure and opening of the clasp without the need for complex latches, enhancing user comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a spring bar (19) comprising at least one retractable stud (25) that axially protrudes from a tubular body (19a) comprised by said bar, said retractable stud being subjected to a return force that tends to maintain it in a moved-out position
Implementation Method 2
said cap comprises at least one beveled surface situated on one of its inner faces, said beveled surface being arranged so as to push said retractable stud back automatically
Data Source
AI summary
Folding buckle clasp (1) designed to be attached to two bracelet strands or to a one-piece bracelet at two locations on the latter, comprising: —a first clasp element (3); —a second clasp element (7) hinged to said first element (3) via a hinge (9); —a locking system designed to keep said clasp in a folded-up state and to make it possible to put said clasp into an unfolded state in response to an action by a user; the locking system having —a spring-loaded pin (19) comprising a tubular body (19a) and at least one retractable stud (25) protruding axially from the tubular body (19a), said retractable stud (25) being subjected to a return force (F) that tends to keep said retractable stud (25) in an extended position, said pin (19) being situated in said first clasp element (3); —a cover (11) that is fastened to said second clasp element (7) and comprises at least one opening (27) having a shape corresponding to the retractable stud (25), said opening (27) being made in an inner face (11a) of the cover (11) and being able to cooperate with said retractable stud (25), —at least one pusher (29) mounted in said cover and designed to cooperate with said retractable stud (25) in order to remove the latter from said opening (27) in response to said action by the user.