Push-Button Slide Mechanism With Annular Channel Cord Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push button slide mechanisms for adjusting jewelry chain or cord length require precise alignment of multiple holes, making them difficult to assemble and manufacture, and challenging to use due to the need for precise rotational alignment during the threading process.
Innovation Solution
A push button slide mechanism featuring an outer member with upstanding side walls and an inner member with a single annular channel, allowing the elongated member to pass through in all rotational positions, with a spring-biased design that aligns holes upon pressing the inner member against the spring force, enabling easy assembly and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple holes are provided in both inner and outer members for cord passage, then the mechanism can secure the cord effectively, but precise alignment of all holes becomes extremely difficult during assembly and use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cord passage function into two separate components: the outer member provides structural support and positioning, while the inner member with the single annular channel provides the cord passage path. This segmentation eliminates the need for multiple aligned holes, as the cord passes through the annular channel which can be positioned relative to the outer member's single hole when the button is pressed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism acts as an intermediary that enables temporary alignment between the outer member's hole and the inner member's annular channel. When the button is pressed, the spring allows the inner member to shift position, aligning the channel with the hole for cord insertion. Upon release, the spring returns the inner member to its clamping position, securing the cord without requiring permanent precise alignment.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise rotational alignment is required during threading, then proper hole alignment can be achieved, but the operation becomes challenging and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic alignment mechanism where the inner member can move relative to the outer member during the threading operation. The spring allows the inner member to shift dynamically when pressed, enabling alignment of the annular channel with the outer hole temporarily for cord insertion. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for precise static rotational alignment, making the operation much easier and faster.
3Reliability
If a spring-biased design is used to provide clamping force, then secure cord retention is achieved, but the mechanism requires additional components increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the spring mechanism: it provides the clamping force for cord retention, enables the dynamic alignment movement during threading, and acts as the return mechanism for the inner member. By combining these functions into a single spring component, the overall complexity is minimized despite the multi-functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is self-actuating and requires no external power source or control system. It automatically provides the clamping force to retain the cord and automatically enables alignment movement when the button is pressed, then automatically returns the inner member to its clamping position upon release. This self-service capability reduces the need for additional control components, keeping the mechanism relatively simple.
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
Facilitates easy assembly and use by eliminating the need for precise rotational alignment, allowing the elongated member to pass through with ease, and provides a secure clamping force once released, simplifying the adjustment and re-adjustment of jewelry cords.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member, the spring member spring-biasing the outer member relative to the inner member
Data Source
AI summary
A push button slide mechanism, includes an outer member having a bottom wall and an upstanding side wall. The outer member defines at least one pair of holes through the upstanding side wall. The mechanism includes an inner member having a top plate and a bottom plate defining a single annular channel therebetween. The single annular channel receives an elongated member in all rotational positions of the inner member relative to the outer member. A spring member spring-biases the outer member relative to the inner member. Pressing the inner member toward the outer member against the spring forces of the spring causes the single annular channel to align with the holes through the upstanding side wall of the outer member.