MOLLE-Compatible Locking Clip for One-Handed Tool Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MOLLE clips are cumbersome and require multiple gestures or two hands to attach and detach, posing a risk during work-related activities and limiting flexibility in tool placement.
Innovation Solution
A MOLLE and slider compatible clip that allows for one-handed attachment and detachment with a simple pulling gesture, compatible with both MOLLE straps and slider attachments, featuring a locking mechanism that secures the clip to a garment or tool box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing MOLLE clips are used for attachment, then secure attachment is achieved, but multiple gestures or two hands are required for attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states. The biasing element provides continuous force to maintain the locking element in the locked position, while a release mechanism allows easy transition to the unlocked state. This dynamic design enables secure attachment during normal use but allows quick one-handed release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element automatically maintains the locking element in the locked position without requiring continuous user input. Once the clip is attached, the spring-loaded mechanism self-secures the attachment, freeing the user's hands while maintaining reliable connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If MOLLE clips are fixed to a specific place on a garment, then stable attachment is achieved, but flexibility in tool placement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed with universal compatibility to attach to both MOLLE straps and slider attachments. The locking element can engage with the tab of a MOLLE strap or the locking flange of a slider attachment, allowing the same clip to be used in multiple attachment scenarios and providing versatility in tool placement options.
3Reliability
If conventional attachment means are used, then attachment is achieved, but ease of release is poor for workers on ladders or roofs
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is segmented from the attachment function. The release element is a separate, easily accessible component that can be actuated independently from the attachment mechanism. This allows the user to release the attachment with one hand by simply pulling or pressing the release element, without needing to manipulate the entire clip structure.
4Reliability
If MOLLE clips require multiple gestures for detachment, then secure locking is achieved, but productivity and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is integrated with the locking element such that a single action on the release element simultaneously triggers the unlocking sequence. The biasing element, locking element, and release element work together as a unified mechanism where one gesture accomplishes the entire release process, improving efficiency while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A MOLLE and slider attachment compatible clip includes a main body with a back side, an inverted V- or U-shaped front side, a top and an open bottom side. The clip receives a MOLLE strap/slider attachment element from the open bottom side. A locking element, in the main body, includes a bottom hook for securing the MOLLE strap/slider attachment element. A pull element is connected to the locking element through a top opening of the top side. A lock control mechanism unlocked the MOLLE strap/slider attachment element from the locked to open position by moving the bottom hook towards the back side when the pull element is pulled upwards. An assembly includes a MOLLE/slider attachment compatible clip and a slider attachment element with a locking flange that can be locked/unlocked in the clip and a clutch to engage/hold a garment connection element.