One-Handed Quick-Release Connector for Load Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infantrymen and individuals in emergency roles face significant burden from heavy equipment loads, which impede mobility and agility, and existing solutions have not effectively alleviated this burden despite efforts in equipment design and logistics.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a buckle and a buckle male that allows for swift fastening and dismantling of loads from a belt worn by a carrier, enabling one-handed release and rotation to prevent load shifting, using a release cord to disconnect the latches from a circular groove, facilitating easy load exchange and reduction of equipment weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional backpacks and equipment are carried on the shoulders, then team assets and personal gear can be transported, but the soldier's mobility and agility are significantly impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The equipment load is segmented into modular components that can be independently attached and detached from the belt system. The belt itself is segmented with multiple attachment points, allowing the soldier to carry only necessary equipment at any given time, improving mobility while maintaining load capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system enables dynamic adjustment of the load configuration. Soldiers can quickly attach or detach equipment based on operational requirements, changing the load from static to dynamic, thereby maintaining both high equipment capacity and mobility as needed.
2Duration of action of moving object
If heavy equipment loads are carried for significant distances, then mission requirements are met, but the soldier experiences increased fatigue and reduced performance
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic connector system allows soldiers to adjust their load in real-time during missions. When fatigue sets in or operational conditions change, equipment can be quickly detached, reducing the load and physical strain while extending the soldier's effective mission duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in the load configuration by allowing soldiers to modify weight distribution and equipment selection during the mission, optimizing physical performance while maintaining mission capability over extended periods.
3Reliability
If standard buckles are used for fastening equipment, then the load can be secured, but the fastening and release process is time-consuming and requires two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system incorporates self-latching mechanisms that automatically secure the load when attached, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations. The one-handed release mechanism allows the soldier to detach equipment quickly by simply pulling a release tab, maintaining load security while dramatically improving operational speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional multi-step mechanical buckling system is replaced with a simplified cam-based or spring-loaded latch mechanism that provides secure fastening with minimal manual intervention, and enables rapid one-handed release, improving both reliability and speed.
4Stability of the object's composition
If equipment is firmly secured to prevent movement, then load stability is maintained, but the soldier cannot quickly adjust or remove equipment when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system provides dynamic security - firmly securing equipment during normal operation through positive latching, while enabling rapid adjustment or removal when operational conditions change. This transforms the static load configuration into a dynamic one that adapts to mission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates preliminary securing mechanisms that prevent accidental disengagement during movement, while simultaneously providing a designated release mechanism for intentional quick-release, thus preventing harmful load shifts while enabling necessary adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is disclosed for fastening and dismantling a load to or from, respectively, a belt that can be worn by a carrier that comprises a buckle male configured for swift fastening the load to the belt and a buckle configured for swift dismantling the load from the belt using one hand of the carrier.