Propellant Container Latching Mechanism for One-Handed Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propellant container systems for combustion-powered setting tools require multiple hand movements and additional components for secure attachment and detachment, making them inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A propellant container with a latching mechanism integrated into the connecting element, allowing one-handed removal and secure attachment via a spring clip design, along with non-rotational fixing features and counter-locking elements to prevent radial forces and ensure easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the latching means is arranged on the end region of the propellant container remote from the valve outlet, then the ease of operation is improved (one-handed removal), but the device complexity increases (additional latching mechanism)
Solution Approach 1:
The latching means is integrated directly into the connecting element at the end region of the propellant container remote from the valve outlet. This merging of the latching function into the existing connecting structure allows one-handed operation without requiring separate, additional components, thus improving ease of operation while avoiding excessive device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves as an intermediary structure that combines both the fluid connection function (via valve outlet) and the mechanical latching function (via integrated latching means) at the same location, enabling secure attachment and easy one-handed removal without requiring multiple separate components
2Reliability
If the propellant container is supported at both ends, then the reliability is improved (secure fluid connection), but the device complexity increases (additional support structure)
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides fluid connection through the valve outlet, mechanical latching through the integrated latching means, and structural support at both ends of the propellant container. This merging of functions into a single integrated component achieves reliable support without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is designed as a multi-functional component that combines fluid connection, mechanical latching, and structural support functions, allowing the propellant container to be securely supported at both ends while maintaining a secure fluid connection without requiring additional separate components
3Ease of operation
If the latching means is easily accessible for one-handed operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may worsen (latching means vulnerability to radial forces)
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element acts as an intermediary that transmits and distributes radial forces away from the latching means during removal operations. By positioning the latching means at the end region remote from the valve outlet and integrating it into the rigid connecting structure, the system allows easy one-handed operation while the connecting element protects the latching means from damaging radial forces
Data Source
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AI summary
Propellant container has locking means (25) which has a connecting element (24). A valve outlet (23) is provided for releasing propellant. The connecting element with the locking means is arranged on an end area (29) turned away to the valve outlet. A control element (26) is provided for the locking means. An independent claim is also included for the propellant container retainer.