Pocket Clip With Cam Assembly And Draw Latch For Narrow Pockets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing belt and pocket clips often fail to securely attach to clothing or belts, leading to dislodgment under upward forces, and are too wide for vertical pocket openings, making them unsuitable for narrow pockets.
Innovation Solution
A pocket clip with a spring-loaded or cloth-retaining cam assembly at the upper end and a strap holder with a draw latch or snap at the lower end, featuring a spacer for secure attachment to clothing and the ability to fit narrow pockets, while accommodating objects that are too wide for vertical pockets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pocket clip is used, then it can attach to wide horizontal pockets, but it cannot fit narrow vertical pocket openings
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is divided into two distinct functional sections: a narrow cam assembly at the top for engaging vertical pocket openings, and a wider draw latch mechanism at the bottom for securing the object. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, enabling the clip to fit narrow pockets while still accommodating wider objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-width clip design to a multi-width design by adding the vertical dimension of a narrow top section. This allows the clip to engage narrow vertical pocket openings at the top while maintaining sufficient width at the bottom to secure wider objects, effectively solving the dimensionality conflict between pocket fit and object capacity.
2Ease of operation
If an upward force is applied to the clip or suspended object, then the object can be removed from the pocket, but the clip dislodges from the belt or clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The cam assembly is designed with a cam surface that, when rotated, creates a locking action that resists upward forces. The cam geometry is specifically engineered so that removal forces must overcome the mechanical advantage of the cam lock, preventing accidental dislodgment while allowing intentional removal through the draw latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip employs dynamic elements including a spring-loaded cam that can rotate to lock and unlock positions, and a draw latch that can be opened and closed. These dynamic components allow the clip to transition between a locked secure state (resisting upward forces) and an unlocked removable state, providing both reliability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If a spring-loaded cam assembly is used for secure attachment, then the clip resists upward forces, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the cam assembly and draw latch mechanisms into a single integrated clip structure, sharing common components such as the housing, spring, and mounting features. This consolidation reduces the overall part count and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the security benefits of both mechanisms working together.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the primary locking action to resist upward forces, guides the draw latch operation, and structures the narrow top section for pocket engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining high reliability.
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 clip provides secure attachment to belts and pockets, resisting upward forces and accommodating wider objects in narrow pockets, ensuring reliable retention of items.
Implementation Method 1
spring-loaded strip- or cloth-retaining cam assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A pocket clip for holding various articles on a person's clothing has a spring-loaded strip- or cloth-retaining cam assembly at the upper end and a strap holder at the lower end. The strap holder is pinched closed by a draw latch or snap. The lower end of the clip may include a spacer so dimensioned as to provide space for the latch or snap between the clothing and the cam assembly.