Quick Release Connector With Audible Locking and Ejector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick release connectors for buffing pads with power tools often fail to ensure proper attachment and easy release, leading to potential damage during use and difficulties in pad removal.
Innovation Solution
A quick release connector with a hexagonal head and aperture, featuring spring-biased balls for secure locking and audible confirmation, and a manually-operated ejector for easy detachment, allowing reversible use of two-sided buffing pads with power tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a quick release connector uses spring-biased balls for locking, then the attachment security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into functional segments: the body, the connector head with locking mechanism, and the ejector system. The locking function is segmented into spring-biased balls that engage with the accessory hub, providing reliable attachment while keeping each component relatively simple in design
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased balls automatically engage with the accessory hub when the connector is assembled, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional manual intervention. The springs provide continuous force to maintain the locked state, ensuring reliable attachment security
2Reliability
If an audible click indication is added to confirm proper attachment, then the reliability of attachment confirmation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
An audible click mechanism is incorporated into the connector to provide immediate feedback to the user when the accessory is properly attached. This feedback system confirms the locking action without requiring visual inspection or additional complex electronic components
Solution Approach 2:
The audible click indication is generated automatically by the mechanical interaction of the connector components during assembly, providing confirmation without requiring external power sources or complex electronic circuits
3Ease of operation
If a manually-operated ejector is included for easy detachment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ejector is implemented as a separate manual actuator that operates independently from the locking mechanism. This segmentation allows the detachment function to be activated only when needed, maintaining simplicity during normal operation while providing easy release when required
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring force to maintain attachment and release by removing force, the connector is designed to automatically lock through spring force and requires a brief manual ejection action to release. This inversion of the traditional lock-release mechanism simplifies the detachment operation
4Reliability
If the connector head and aperture use a non-circular shape for secure engagement, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector head and aperture use a non-circular shape (such as hexagonal or square) to prevent rotational movement and ensure proper orientation during attachment. This asymmetric design provides engagement security while remaining compatible with standard machining and molding processes
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
Ensures secure attachment and easy release of buffing pads, preventing damage and facilitating efficient pad replacement with audible confirmation of proper positioning and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
spring-biased balls for secure locking
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release connector for a power tool accessory having a center aperture. The connector comprises a body having a first end adapted to be attached to a shaft of a power tool and a second end that includes a connector head that is adapted to be moved axially into and to fit within the center aperture of the accessory for transferring motion from the power tool to the accessory. In one embodiment, the connector includes an indicator for providing a positive indication to a user that the connector head is properly secured to the accessory and, in another embodiment, the connector includes an ejector for pushing the accessory off of said connector head.