Plug-In Fastener Layout for One-Handed Release and Secure Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap fasteners require two-handed operation for disconnection, are prone to accidental re-locking, and have limited actuation surfaces, making them difficult to use and inefficient in material usage.
Innovation Solution
A snap fastener design with a guide device offset from the spring mechanism, allowing for a longer guide and increased spring travel, ensuring single-handed operation and improved holding force, while maintaining geometric flexibility and reducing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the guide device is integrated closely with the spring mechanism in existing snap fasteners, then the structure is compact, but the actuation surfaces are limited and difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The guide device is offset from the spring mechanism in the longitudinal direction, creating spatial separation that allows actuation surfaces to extend beyond the hollow body. This dimensional repositioning enables fingers to access and manipulate the plug and spring hooks without being constrained by the limited internal space of the connector receptacle.
2Ease of operation
If the spring hooks are contained within the hollow connector receptacle, then the structure is protected, but the actuation surfaces are limited in size
Solution Approach 1:
The guide device extends in the longitudinal direction beyond the hollow body, allowing the spring mechanism and actuation surfaces to project outward. This enables larger actuation surfaces that are accessible from the outside while the spring hooks remain protected within the hollow body during normal operation.
3Reliability
If the plug connector is designed with traditional integration, then manufacturing is simple, but accidental re-locking cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The offset arrangement of the guide device creates a geometric configuration where the spring travel path is separated from the guide device. This spatial separation prevents the spring hooks from accidentally re-engaging with the guide device during insertion, eliminating the risk of accidental re-locking while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.
4Manufacturing precision
If the guide device is made longer for better alignment, then connection precision is improved, but material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide device is offset and extended in the longitudinal direction, allowing it to achieve sufficient alignment precision without requiring excessive length in other dimensions. This optimized spatial configuration provides the necessary guidance function while minimizing overall material consumption compared to traditional integrated designs.
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 design facilitates easy, single-handed operation with improved holding force and reduced material usage, preventing accidental re-locking and enhancing user control throughout the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
The plug has at least one spring mechanism for securely locking and holding the plug in its position within the plug receptacle
Data Source
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AI summary
A plug connector, in particular for the detachable connection of two connecting partners or two textile sections, with a plug to which a first connecting partner can be attached, and with a plug receptacle to which a second connecting partner can be attached, wherein the plug can be inserted into the plug receptacle for detachable connection, wherein the plug has a guide device for bringing the plug and plug receptacle together, wherein the plug has at least one spring device for securely locking and holding the position of the plug in the plug receptacle, and wherein the guide device is arranged offset in a height direction to the spring device.