Quick-Attach Clip With Front Latch and Side Mounting Tabs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-piece clips with bottom latching mechanisms are difficult to access, limit mounting area, and hinder visibility during manipulation, especially when securing larger items, and lack versatility in attachment points.
Innovation Solution
The SQUAD™ Clip features a forward-facing latch mechanism and side-mounted attachment areas, allowing easy access and visibility, with a rotatable hinge assembly that can accommodate larger items and provide independent mounting regions on either side of the face plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the latch mechanism is positioned on the bottom edge of the clip, then the clip structure is compact, but the latch becomes difficult to access and manipulate, particularly when larger items are attached
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is repositioned from the bottom edge to the front face of the clip, inverting the conventional arrangement. This allows the latch to be easily accessible and visible when larger items are attached to the clip face, resolving the accessibility problem while maintaining structural integrity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the front face of the clip constitutes the attachment area, then the clip provides a mounting surface, but the mounting area is inherently limited by the size of the clip itself
Solution Approach 1:
Mounting tabs are extended laterally beyond the front face of the clip, adding horizontal dimension to the mounting area. This allows equipment to be mounted on the sides of the clip, effectively increasing the available mounting surface area without increasing the overall clip size
3Ease of operation
If the latch mechanism is positioned on the bottom edge, then the clip structure is simplified, but visual assistance during manipulation is completely negated
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is positioned on the front face where it can be visually observed during manipulation. The latch components may incorporate visual indicators such as color coding or contrasting materials to enhance visibility and provide visual feedback during operation
Data Source
AI summary
Described are various embodiments of a two-piece clip. The clip being a secure quick attach/detach (SQUAD™) clip described herein. The clip having a front mounted latch mechanism on the SQUAD™ Clip that is readily visible and accessible. The result is greater ease of use and operation of the locking latch, compared to similar attachment devices that utilize a bottom mounted locking mechanism. The SQUAD™ Clip also utilizes side mounting tabs that can be configured and sized to accommodate attachment of a variety of host components. The SQUAD™ Clip is both waist belt and Molle compatible.