Low-Profile Coupler Base With Tool-Free Rotational Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical couplers require tools for coupling and decoupling objects from supports, limiting their usability and flexibility, especially in applications where quick and tool-free attachment and rotation are necessary, such as with recording devices like digital video recorders (DVRs) attached to clothing.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical coupler system comprising a base, cover, and ring that allows for tool-free coupling and rotation of objects relative to a support, using a mechanism where the base couples to the object and the cover couples to the support, enabling manual positioning and orientation without the need for tools, with the ring retaining the base at specific orientations to secure the object in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical couplers are used, then secure coupling is achieved, but tool requirement reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into separate base and cover components that can be independently assembled. The base attaches to the object and the cover attaches to the support, allowing tool-free manual assembly while maintaining secure coupling. This segmentation enables ease of operation without requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing couplers are designed for secure attachment, then reliability is improved, but inability to rotate without tools worsens adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler incorporates a dynamic ring mechanism that allows the base to rotate relative to the cover during assembly. Once positioned, the ring engages with the cover to lock the rotational position, providing both adaptability for positioning and reliability for secure attachment. The mechanism transitions from dynamic (rotatable) to static (locked) state.
3Ease of operation
If low-profile design is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but coupling strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base is inserted into the cover in a nested configuration, with the ring mechanism positioned within the cover structure. This nesting approach creates a compact low-profile design while maintaining strong coupling through the interlocking surfaces and engagement features of the nested components.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for removeable coupling an object to a support. The coupler includes a cover, a ring, and a base. The cover couples to the support. The ring includes a first arm, a second arm, a third arm, a fourth arm, a first stop, and a second stop. Each arm of the ring is formed of a resilient material. The ring is positioned in a cavity of the cover. The base couples to the accessory. The base cooperates with the cover and the ring to couple to the cover and to rotate from a decoupled position to an intermediate position and further to a clocked position.