Plastic Deformation Strap Buckle for Secure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buckles lack simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in design and manufacturing, with a need for improved methods to secure strap portions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A strap buckle design featuring parallel clamp members with pliable walls that undergo permanent plastic deformation when moved closer, securing a strap loop between them for full retaining engagement, and a method of using a double-sided center frame section with end members and second clamp members connected by pliable walls for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional buckle designs are used, then manufacturing costs and device complexity are reduced, but securing effectiveness and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle is divided into distinct functional segments: clamp members for securing, pliable walls for deformation, and a center frame section. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, improving securing effectiveness while keeping individual components simple to manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The pliable walls are designed to dynamically change from an undeformed state during insertion to a permanently deformed state during securing. This dynamic behavior enables the buckle to transition from an open state (easy insertion) to a locked state (secure retention), improving reliability without adding complex mechanical mechanisms
2Reliability
If permanent deformation mechanism is implemented, then retaining engagement is maintained, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pliable walls are designed with specific material and geometric parameters that enable controlled permanent deformation. By optimizing the wall thickness, material properties, and initial geometry, the buckle achieves reliable retaining engagement through deformation without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 2:
The buckle is designed as a single-use disposable device where the pliable walls undergo permanent deformation to secure the strap and cannot be reset. This approach prioritizes reliability and simplicity over reusability, allowing for cost-effective manufacturing with moderate precision requirements since the buckle is replaced rather than reused
3Ease of operation
If clamp members are positioned parallel and spaced apart, then ease of operation is improved, but structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The center frame section acts as an intermediary structure that connects the clamp members and provides stable positioning. It maintains the parallel arrangement and spacing of clamp members while enabling easy strap insertion, resolving the conflict between operational ease and structural stability
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 buckle provides a cost-effective, efficient, and easy-to-use solution for securing strap portions with a one-time use option, maintaining engagement through permanent deformation and allowing for mass production with low manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
the pliable walls being subjected to a permanent plastic deformation when the second clamp member is moved from an initial first position
Data Source
AI summary
The buckle includes a first and a second clamp member positioned substantially parallel to one another. End members are provided at the opposite ends of the first clamp member. The buckle includes a set of pliable wall directly interconnecting one of the end members to the second clamp member. The pliable walls are subjected to a permanent plastic deformation when the second clamp member is moved closer to the first clamp member.