Quick-Release Coupler Vertical Detachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional couplers and workpiece holders for machine tools, as well as accessory mounting systems for firearms, face limitations such as requiring recalibration, complex operation, increased manufacturing costs, and restricted accessory dimensions due to angular movements and multiple components, which hinder efficient interchangeability and performance.
Innovation Solution
A universal quick-release coupler that allows objects or workpieces to be vertically detached from a base without pivoting or rotation, enabling rapid and precise interchangeability between different support structures using a lifting force, and incorporating a keeper and release assembly for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional mounting systems require angular movement or pivoting for coupling and securing, then the accessory can be attached to the block, but the accessory dimensions are limited and contact with the firearm occurs which can damage the accessory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional mounting approach by using a vertical lifting motion instead of angular pivoting. The accessory is secured by moving it vertically onto the block where it is retained by a finger mechanism, rather than pivoting it into place. This inversion eliminates contact between the accessory and firearm during attachment, preventing damage while maintaining securement strength.
2Reliability
If conventional mounting systems use control knobs or levers for actuation, then the accessory can be locked in place, but the operation becomes time-consuming and the components are subject to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex control knob or lever actuation mechanism from conventional mounting systems and replaces it with a simple finger-retained block that can be quickly engaged and disengaged. The finger mechanism provides reliable locking through a simple geometric constraint rather than a threaded or lever-based system, eliminating wear-prone components and reducing operation time while maintaining locking reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional workpiece holders require recalibration when moving workpieces between bases, then accurate positioning can be maintained, but the interchangeability is hindered and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal mounting interface where the block and accessory design allow for interchangeability without recalibration. The standardized vertical engagement mechanism and finger-retained system enable the same accessory to be mounted on different bases or tool stations while maintaining consistent positioning accuracy, eliminating the need for recalibration and increasing adaptability across multiple workstations.
4Reliability
If conventional mounting systems require two hands for operation, then secure attachment can be achieved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting operation into two simple independent actions: vertical insertion and finger retention. The block design separates the attachment function (vertical movement) from the retention function (finger mechanism), allowing the entire operation to be completed with one hand. This segmentation maintains attachment security while dramatically improving ease of operation compared to two-handed conventional systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler apparatus for releasably securing an object to a support member, is described. The mounting apparatus includes a connector joined to the object and having a tapered plug with a slot that extends inward from an outer wall of the plug. The apparatus further includes a base with an internal cavity extending between opposed side walls of the base. The base may be integral with the support member and has an aperture with an internal wall arrangement including an orifice wherein the aperture is dimensioned for reception of the plug. A keeper is slidable positioned within the internal cavity and has a finger that extends though the orifice and into the slot to retain the plug within the aperture. The apparatus is moveable between a secured position wherein the keeper finger extends through the orifice and into the slot of the plug positioned within the aperture, a released position wherein the keeper finger is disengaged from the orifice, and a detached position wherein the connector and the object are removed from the base by applying a linear lifting force.