Linkless Snap-Hook with Integrated Attachment Loop

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing snap-hook devices require intermediate attachment links, which increase complexity, cost, and risk of accidental actuation, and do not allow for direct and versatile attachment of different mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A linkless snap-hook design with a unique body member configuration featuring an open attachment loop and slot, enabling direct connection of various attachment mechanisms without an intermediate link, utilizing forged or stamped heat-treated metal for enhanced strength and safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If intermediate attachment links are used to connect attachment mechanisms, then connection versatility is achieved, but device complexity and risk of accidental actuation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the attachment mechanism and the linkless connection apparatus into a single integrated body member. The U-shaped attachment mechanism is formed as one piece with the body, eliminating the need for separate intermediate links while maintaining connection versatility through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The body member is designed with a universal interface that can directly accommodate various attachment mechanisms (carabiners, snap-hooks, D-rings) without requiring intermediate links. The U-shaped attachment mechanism provides multi-functional capability to connect different types of safety equipment directly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If intermediate attachment links are used, then connection flexibility is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism and body member are merged into a single forged or stamped component. This integration eliminates the need to manufacture, inventory, and assemble multiple separate parts (intermediate links), significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining connection flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes forging or stamping processes to create the integrated body member with specific geometric parameters that enable direct attachment. The U-shaped attachment mechanism is formed with precise dimensions during manufacturing, allowing direct connection without additional components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If intermediate attachment links are used, then attachment capability is achieved, but risk of accidental actuation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment capabilityVSAvoidsafety risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism and attachment mechanism are merged into a single integrated body member with shielded internal components. This integration protects the locking mechanism from external interference and accidental actuation while maintaining full attachment capability through the U-shaped interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a shielded locking mechanism that prevents accidental actuation before it can occur. The interacting grips and release trigger are positioned and protected to require intentional simultaneous action, providing preliminary protection against unintended release.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

4Device complexity

If a traditional eye attachment is used, then simple structure is maintained, but direct attachment of various mechanisms is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidattachment versatility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The body member incorporates a universal U-shaped attachment mechanism that can directly accommodate various attachment types (carabiners, snap-hooks, D-rings) while maintaining overall structural simplicity. The integrated design provides multiple attachment capabilities without adding complex sub-assemblies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9382939B1Linkless attachment arrangement for a locking snap-hook or the like

Publication Date: 2016.07.05 BUCKINGHAM MFG CO INC

AI summary

A linkless attachment for use with snap-hooks or similar devices. Snap-hooks typically include a locking mechanism and release mechanism requiring the simultaneous depression of interacting grips. The keeper grip member of the hook apparatus functions in a dual-purpose capacity. It forms the eye of the hook loop, and it functions as one of the grip members of the release mechanism. Further, the body member features an open attachment loop terminating in a slot, whereby various attachment devices may interchangeably be added to the novel linkless snap-hook at the time of its assembly.