Quick-Detach Belt Clamp with Self-Resetting Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing belt-mounted tools and accessories lack efficient and ergonomic mechanisms for quick detachment and interchangeability, particularly for military and law enforcement personnel, leading to potential damage and inconvenience during reconfiguration.
Innovation Solution
A belt clamp with pivotally coupled inboard and outboard plates, a spring-biased locking mechanism, and rotatable latching members, allowing for easy attachment and detachment by pressing the plates together and using thumb and index finger to unlock, with features like ramped ribs and interior adjustment for varying belt sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a traditional locking mechanism is used for belt-mounted tools, then the tool is securely attached to the belt, but the detachment process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The belt clamp incorporates a spring-biased locking mechanism that automatically locks when the clamp is attached to the belt and automatically unlocks when the release button is pressed. The spring automatically returns the latching members to their locked position after detachment, eliminating the need for manual resetting and enabling rapid reattachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: latching members for engagement, a release button for actuation, and spring elements for automatic resetting. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick one-handed operation.
2Strength
If a rigid locking mechanism is used to secure belt-mounted tools, then the tools are firmly held in place, but the mechanism becomes difficult to operate with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system with movable latching members that can be actuated by a spring-loaded button. The latching members move between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing the mechanism to maintain strong holding force during normal use while enabling easy one-handed release through the button actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The release button serves as an intermediary element that translates a simple pressing motion into the actuation of the latching members. The button leverages spring force to move the latching members out of engagement, providing a mechanical advantage that enables one-handed operation while maintaining strong locking force.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size belt clamp is manufactured, then the manufacturing process is simple and cost-effective, but the clamp cannot accommodate different belt sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment bar is designed to be movable along the belt clamp, allowing it to be positioned at different locations to accommodate various belt sizes. The bar can be shifted to different slots or positions, providing adaptability without requiring multiple fixed-size clamps. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains relatively simple construction while achieving versatility.
4Reliability
If excessive force is applied during belt clamp attachment, then the locking mechanism engages securely, but damage may occur to the belt or mounted tools
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-biased locking mechanism is pre-loaded with spring force that cushions the engagement process. When the belt clamp is attached to the belt, the spring gradually compresses and absorbs excess force, preventing sudden impacts that could damage the belt or mounted tools. The spring acts as a shock absorber that maintains reliable locking while protecting against damage.
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 quick and ergonomic attachment and detachment of belt-mounted tools, reduces damage risk, and accommodates different belt sizes, enhancing usability and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring biased locking mechanism that selectively and releasably connects the lower end of the inboard plate to the lower end of the outboard plate
Implementation Method 2
Unlocking forces may be formed by ramp portions of the latching members and the complementary portions
Data Source
AI summary
In embodiments, a belt clamp includes an inboard plate and an outboard plate that are pivotally coupled at their upper ends. The belt clamp may also include a spring biased locking mechanism that selectively and releasably connects the lower end of the inboard plate to the lower end of the outboard plate by way of locking posts in the inboard plate that are displaced upwardly from the lower edge of said plate. The outboard locking plate may have latch members that are entirely contained (except for opposing actuation buttons) within a compartment formed by two portions of the outboard plate connected by a living hinge. The opposing actuation buttons require a motion in a first direction, such as upwardly, to allow motion in a second direction, such as inwardly, to rotate the latching members inwardly to release the locking posts.