Removable Attachment Module for Secure Tool-Less Accessory Swaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer products often lack user-friendly attachment systems, requiring special tools for accessory removal or replacement, and may not provide adequate retention force, affecting both functionality and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A removable module with a spring-biased locking mechanism that securely attaches and detaches accessories from consumer products without the need for tools, allowing for easy interchangeability and compatibility across various products and accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional attachment mechanisms (pins, screws) are used to secure accessories, then adequate retention force is provided, but the mechanism becomes robust and large thereby adversely affecting the elegance of the consumer product
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system embeds the locking mechanism within the housing structure itself. The channel is formed directly in the housing, and the locking mechanism includes a catch member that engages with features within the channel, nesting the retention function inside the existing product form rather than adding external robust components.
Solution Approach 2:
A removable module acts as an intermediary component between the accessory and the housing. This module includes the locking mechanism and can be easily attached and removed, providing secure retention while maintaining a sleek appearance as the module itself can be designed to match the product's aesthetic.
2Strength
If traditional attachment mechanisms are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but special tools and technician assistance are required for accessory removal and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is designed to be self-servicing for the user. The release mechanism can be actuated by the user without special tools - for example, by pressing a button or sliding a component that triggers the catch member to disengage from the channel, allowing easy accessory removal and replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separable components: the accessory, the removable module, and the housing with channel. This segmentation allows the accessory to be easily detached by removing the module, which can be done without tools by actuating the release mechanism, making the system user-friendly while maintaining secure attachment when assembled.
3Strength
If a robust locking mechanism is used to ensure secure attachment, then adequate retention force is provided, but the mechanism becomes complex and large
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within the removable module and housing structure. The catch member engages with features formed in the channel, utilizing the housing's own structure as part of the locking system. This reduces the need for additional complex external components while maintaining secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system merges multiple functions into integrated components. The channel serves both as a guide for the removable module and as part of the locking mechanism itself. The release mechanism is integrated into the housing or module rather than being a separate complex assembly, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining secure attachment.
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
The solution provides a robust, tool-less attachment system that ensures secure coupling while maintaining a sleek design, enhancing user convenience and flexibility in using different accessories with various consumer products.
Implementation Method 1
A removable module with a spring-biased locking mechanism that securely attaches and detaches accessories from consumer products
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a removable module (102) and a housing for an attachment system of a consumer product (104). The removable module includes a locking mechanism comprising a first portion having a substantially planar top surface and second portion that comprises a substantially non-planar bottom surface. The first portion and the second portion are coupled together. The locking mechanism also includes a first spring mechanism coupled between the first portion and the second portion. The first spring mechanism causes the first portion to be biased away from the second portion. The locking mechanism also includes a second spring mechanism. The second spring mechanism causes the substantially planar top surface of the first portion to be biased substantially flush with respect to the removable module and also causes the substantially non-planar bottom surface of the second portion to be biased proud with respect to the removable module.