Lockable Snap-Clip Fastener With Integrated Spring-Locking Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap-clip fasteners are complex and require multiple parts, making them difficult to use and manufacture, and lack a simple mechanism to maintain a locked or unlocked configuration without user intervention.
Innovation Solution
A lockable snap-clip fastener with two jaw members pivoted by a spring and a locking bar that can block or allow passage, allowing the user to easily switch between locked and unlocked states by positioning the locking bar, using fewer components and a simple mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art snap clips use multiple parts and complex mechanisms, then they can achieve locking functionality, but they become difficult to use and manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional components into a unified structure where the locking bar integrates the locking mechanism, and the spring provides both biasing and locking engagement. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining reliable locking functionality through the coordinated interaction of the jaw members, locking bar, and spring assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener is divided into distinct functional segments: two jaw members for gripping, a locking bar for securing the locked state, and a spring for providing biasing force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall mechanism compared to integrated complex designs.
2Reliability
If prior art snap clips use multiple parts and complex mechanisms, then they can achieve locking functionality, but they increase manufacturing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the locking mechanism into the jaw member structure with the locking bar passing through one jaw and engaging with the spring, the design reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration simplifies manufacturing processes while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring serves multiple functions: providing biasing force to keep the jaw members closed, enabling the locking bar to engage and disengage, and maintaining the locked or unlocked configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying manufacturing.
3Ease of manufacture
If a snap clip uses a simple mechanism with fewer parts, then it is easier to manufacture, but it may lack the ability to maintain locked or unlocked configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The spring automatically maintains the locked or unlocked configuration by exerting biasing force on the jaw members and locking bar. Once the user positions the locking bar to switch between locked and unlocked states, the spring sustains the configuration without requiring continuous user intervention, providing both simplicity and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism allows dynamic transition between locked and unlocked states through the movable locking bar that can pass to one side or the other of the jaw member. The spring provides continuous force to maintain whichever configuration is currently established, enabling stable yet changeable states.
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 solution provides a user-friendly, economical, and intuitive fastener that remains in the desired configuration until intentionally changed, suitable for various applications requiring secure and temporary fastening.
Implementation Method 1
two jaw members joint at a pivot and biased by a spring in a closed position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention is a lockable snap-clip fastener (10) with two spring-biased jaw members (12, 14) and a slidable locking bar (16). The same spring (13) that biases the jaws (12, 14) holds the locking bar (16) in position. Since the bar (16) is held in either the locked or unlocked position, it is more secure and must be positively actuated in order to transition from one configuration to the other.