Magnetic Fastener Assembly With Multi-Direction Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking devices are not intuitive to operate and lack a firm, resilient hold between locking parts, making them difficult for users to engage and disengage securely.

Innovation Solution

A locking device with an adjustable assembly that allows for multiple opening movements, including parallel, opposite, diagonal, or rotational directions, combined with magnetic interaction to ensure a firm hold and easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single-direction adjustment mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment assembly is designed to accept multiple types of opening movements (parallel, opposite, diagonal, rotational) through a single mechanism. The actuating element can be operated in different directions to achieve the same functional result of moving the locking element, making the mechanism universal and multi-functional while maintaining relatively simple structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment assembly allows dynamic operation where the user can choose different movement directions based on convenience. The mechanism responds to various actuation directions (parallel, opposite, diagonal, rotational) and converts them all into the effective motion needed to disengage the locking element, providing operational flexibility without requiring multiple fixed mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If magnetic interaction is used, then the hold between locking parts is firm and resilient, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirm holdVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces purely mechanical locking mechanisms with a magnetic interaction system. The magnetic attraction between locking elements provides automatic engagement and a firm hold without requiring complex mechanical interlocks, springs, or adjustment mechanisms. This substitution achieves reliable holding with simpler overall device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic interaction allows for adjustable holding force by changing magnetic field parameters (strength, polarity, distance). This enables the locking device to provide both firm holding when engaged and easy release when needed, achieving reliable yet controllable connection without complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 device provides a firm, resilient connection that is easy and intuitive to operate, allowing users to engage and disengage locking parts through various movements, enhancing usability and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

The locking elements are magnetic, so that in the closed position they are magnetically tensioned in the direction of engagement with the engagement element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic interaction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4493018B1Fastener
Publication Date: 2026.03.04 FIDLOCK GMBH
  • EP4493018B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~2B
  • EP4493018B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3D
  • EP4493018B1 patent drawingFigure 4A~4D

AI summary

The invention relates to a closure device (1) comprising a first closure part (2) having a body (20), and a second closure part (3). The first closure part (2) and the second closure part (3) can be placed on one another in order to close the closure device (1) along a closing direction (X) and they can be connected to one another in a closing position of the closure device (1). At least one locking element (23) is adjustably arranged on the body (20) of the first closure part (2). At least one engaging element (31) is arranged on the second closure part (3) and forms at least one engaging section (310). An adjusting assembly can be actuated with different opening movements for moving the at least one locking element (23) relative to the body (20), wherein the adjusting assembly can be actuated in order to perform a first opening movement along a first adjusting direction (V1) directed along the closing direction (X) or deviating from the closing direction (X) relative to the body (20), and can be actuated in order to perform a second opening movement, different from the first opening movement, along a second adjusting direction (V2-V5), deviating from the first adjusting direction (V1), relative to the body (20).