Identical Clasp Half Sections with Deformable Interlocking Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design of clasps for wristbands is complex and costly due to the need for separate male and female sections, which requires two sets of tooling and can lead to assembly mistakes, and existing solutions do not efficiently prevent non-destructive removal.
Innovation Solution
A clasp assembly with identical half sections that interlock through deformable features such as wedge-shaped posts or cutouts, allowing for a non-reversible connection without the need for separate tooling sets and ensuring secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If separate male and female clasp sections are used, then secure interlocking engagement is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to requiring two sets of tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the clasp half-sections with asymmetric deformable features (such as asymmetric posts or cutouts) that enable secure interlocking engagement. The asymmetric geometry ensures proper orientation and prevents incorrect assembly, while allowing identical half-sections to be used on both sides of the wristband, thereby reducing tooling requirements to a single set.
2Strength
If separate male and female clasp sections are used, then interlocking engagement is achieved, but assembly mistakes increase due to sorting requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by making both clasp half-sections identical in design and geometry. Each half-section contains the same deformable features (posts or cutouts), eliminating the need to distinguish between male and female sections. This homogeneous design simplifies the assembly process, reduces sorting requirements, and minimizes assembly mistakes while maintaining secure interlocking engagement.
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesive is used instead of clasp, then manufacturing cost decreases, but placement precision and comfort decrease due to alignment skill requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the clasp mechanism to automatically align and secure itself without requiring skilled manual placement. The deformable features (posts or cutouts) guide the assembly process, enabling the clasp to self-align and engage securely. This eliminates the need for adhesive application skills while maintaining manufacturing cost effectiveness and achieving precise alignment.
4Ease of operation
If reversible clasp connection is used, then ease of removal is improved, but tamper-proof capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by designing the deformable features to undergo irreversible deformation during the engagement process. The posts or cutouts are configured so that when engaged, they create permanent dimensional changes that prevent non-destructive removal. This parameter change from reversible to irreversible deformation ensures tamper-proof capability while maintaining ease of initial assembly.
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
This design simplifies manufacturing, reduces costs, and provides a secure, tamper-proof attachment mechanism that prevents non-destructive removal, ensuring the wristband remains in place without the need for complex assembly.
Implementation Method 1
Each half section includes one or more deformable features that are designed to deform during closure to create an interlocking engagement between each half section
Data Source
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Figure 5A~6
AI summary
A clasp assembly includes a pair of identical half sections configured to be coupled to one another. Each half section comprises one or more deformable features that are designed to deform during closure to create an interlocking engagement between each half section.