Removable Clasp Coupling for Metal Detector Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional belt clasps with metal components pose challenges for security checks, as they require removal to avoid triggering metal detectors, and offer limited adjustment precision and aesthetic appeal.

Innovation Solution

A clasp design featuring a removable metal-free coupling device that allows for easy detachment from the belt ends, enabling secure passage through metal detectors, while providing fine length adjustment and a harmonious, non-protruding aesthetic.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a metal clasp is used for belt connection, then the clasp provides strong locking capability, but it triggers metal detectors during security checks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking capabilityVSAvoidmetal detector alarm

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The clasp is divided into two separate parts: a body portion and a removable coupling device. The coupling device can be detached from the body, allowing the metal-containing body to remain on the belt while the removable portion can be taken off for security checks, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable locking and metal detector compatibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The metal component (body) is extracted as a separate removable element from the belt assembly. The coupling device can be removed and kept separately during security checks, eliminating the harmful effect of metal detection while maintaining the locking function when reattached

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If the clasp body is permanently attached to the belt end, then the connection is secure, but the clasp cannot be easily removed for security checks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidremovability for security checks

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clasp system is segmented into a body and a removable coupling device that can be easily separated and reattached. This provides secure connection during normal use while enabling quick removal for security checks, resolving the contradiction between connection security and ease of removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If a toothed belt mechanism is used for length adjustment, then fine adjustment is achieved, but the clasp requires a specialized toothed belt configuration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelength adjustment precisionVSAvoidcompatibility with pre-existing belts

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling device is designed with universal compatibility to work with various belt types and configurations. It can accommodate different belt widths and materials while maintaining precise length adjustment capability, resolving the contradiction between adjustment precision and adaptability to pre-existing belts

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of operation

If the clasp has protruding elements for operation, then the actuating mechanism is functional, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised and clothing may be caught

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveactuating mechanism functionalityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating mechanism is nested within the contours of the clasp body, with the actuator integrated into the overall shape rather than protruding outward. This maintains full functionality while achieving a smooth, aesthetic appearance that prevents clothing from catching, resolving the contradiction between operational functionality and aesthetic shape

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP4265145A1Clasp for adjusting a useful length, the clasp comprising a coupling device

Publication Date: 2023.10.25 DEXEL SA

Figure 1~9C
Figure 3~4E
Figure 4A~4C

AI summary

The present invention relates to a clasp for connecting two ends of a band, for example a belt, the clasp being arranged to allow fine adjustment of the length of the belt by means of an actuating element arranged on the clasp, the clasp further comprising first and second coupling elements allowing the second end of the clasp to be detached.