Quick Disconnect Coupling for Garments Using Release Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick disconnect couplings for garments, such as vests worn by law enforcement or soldiers, are not designed to be easily and rapidly removable in emergency situations, lacking a reliable mechanism for instant disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A quick disconnect coupling comprising an outer coupling part, an inner coupling part, and a release pin that allows for selective locking and unlocking, enabling rapid assembly and disassembly by varying the width of a pin passage using bendable arms and detent teeth, facilitating secure engagement and quick release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional coupling mechanism is used for garment connection, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the disconnection process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate components: an outer coupling part, an inner coupling part, and a release pin. This segmentation allows the connection to be secured through multiple engagement points while enabling rapid disconnection by simply removing the release pin, which simultaneously releases all engagement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The release pin is pre-positioned within the inner coupling part, ready to be removed at any moment. The detent teeth are pre-configured to engage with the outer coupling part's corresponding features, so that when the release pin is removed, the entire disconnection process occurs automatically and rapidly without requiring additional manual intervention.
2Loss of time
If a simple coupling mechanism is used for rapid disconnection, then the disconnection speed is fast, but the connection security and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions between two states: a locked state where the release pin engages the detent teeth to secure the connection, and an unlocked state where the release pin is removed allowing rapid disconnection. This dynamic design enables the system to provide strong connection security when needed while allowing instant release when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The release pin acts as an intermediary element that controls the entire coupling mechanism. When engaged, it mediates the connection between the outer and inner coupling parts through the detent teeth, ensuring secure attachment. When removed, it immediately releases all engagement points, enabling rapid disconnection without compromising connection security during normal use.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple components is used, then the connection security is enhanced, but the ease of operation and user simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through its detent teeth and release pin configuration. Once the release pin is removed, the detent teeth automatically disengage from the outer coupling part, and the entire inner coupling part can be quickly pulled out. This eliminates the need for complex manual manipulation or multiple steps, making the system both secure and easy to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick disconnect coupling for releasably connecting first and second garment parts includes a tubular outer coupling part having a central opening and a garment portion that is configured to be connected with the first garment part. An inner coupling part has a garment portion that is configured to be connected with the second garment part. The inner coupling part is selectively movable into and out of the central opening of the outer coupling part to releasably connect the first and second garment parts. The coupling further includes a release pin that is movable along a pin passage in the inner coupling part to change the configuration of the inner coupling part from a locking configuration in which the inner coupling part is locked to the outer coupling part, to an unlocked configuration in which the inner coupling part can be pulled out of the central opening of the outer coupling part thereby to disconnect the coupling.