Interlocking Clasp for Flexible Bands Preventing Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible bands, such as wrist straps, often have insecure connecting ends that can be accidentally or intentionally dismantled, compromising their integrity and security.
Innovation Solution
A clasp with interlocking members, including hooks and recesses, is designed to permanently secure the connecting ends of flexible bands, preventing slippage and disengagement by creating a permanent interlock around the strap, using identical or identical-like pieces that can be easily assembled without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adhesive portions or unsecure interlocking features are used to attach band ends, then the band can be easily assembled and applied, but the connecting ends can be accidentally or intentionally dismantled
Solution Approach 1:
The clasp is divided into two separate interlocking members that can be independently applied to the band ends. Each member has complementary geometric features (protrusions and recesses) that segment the securing function while maintaining overall integrity. This segmentation allows easy application of individual members while creating a secure combined structure that resists dismantling.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking members feature asymmetric geometric profiles with specific protrusions and recesses that mate together in a non-reversible manner. The asymmetric design includes features such as angled surfaces, interlocking tabs, and complementary shapes that provide easy insertion but prevent removal without breaking the interlock, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of assembly and security of connection.
2Reliability
If a secure interlocking mechanism is used to prevent dismantling, then the band connection becomes more reliable, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking members incorporate localized geometric features (specific protrusions and recesses at particular locations) rather than complex mechanisms throughout the entire structure. Each member has simple overall geometry with specific local features that provide the interlocking function. This local quality approach maintains simplicity of the overall device while achieving secure connection through strategically placed geometric elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking members are designed to self-align and self-secure through their geometric features. The protrusions and recesses are shaped to guide proper orientation during assembly, and the interlocking action automatically secures the connection without requiring additional fastening steps, tools, or complex mechanisms. This self-service design achieves reliable security while minimizing device complexity.
3Reliability
If the clasp is designed to be permanently interlocked, then the band remains secure and intact, but the clasp cannot be removed or adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The clasp is designed to be applied in a preliminary state where the interlocking members can be easily connected to secure the band, creating a permanent interlock that prevents subsequent adjustment or removal. The geometric features are configured to establish the secure connection immediately upon assembly, eliminating the need for or possibility of later adjustment, thus prioritizing integrity over adaptability through preliminary securing action.
Data Source
AI summary
A clasp is configured to permanently interlock around a flexible strip of material and includes first and second interlocking members. Each interlocking member includes a plurality of hooks and a corresponding plurality of recesses, where the recesses of one interlocking member receive the hooks of the other interlocking member to secure a band within the clasp between the interlocking members. The recesses can be completely internal to the clasp to prevent external tampering. Each of the interlocking members can include various protrusions and ribs that compress and secure the band within the clasp, so as to prevent movement of the band between the interlocking members when interlocked.