Rotatable Quick Disconnect Coupling With Keyed Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems in apparel and footwear fail to provide secure attachment with rotational capability, ease of use, and reliable locking mechanisms that minimize complexity and force requirements for engagement and disengagement, especially in dynamic applications.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable quick disconnect coupling system with a keyed post and receiver having a non-radially symmetric cross-sectional profile, a latching mechanism with a spring-biased protrusion, and a bearing shaft for rotational movement, allowing secure attachment and controlled rotation with intuitive release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a keyed post with non-radially symmetric profile is used to prevent unintended rotation, then rotational control is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for complementary internal profiles and alignment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The keyed post employs a non-radially symmetric cross-sectional profile (such as D-shaped, oval, or polygonal) that corresponds to a complementary internal profile in the receiver. This asymmetric geometry prevents unintended rotation while facilitating proper alignment during insertion, resolving the contradiction by using shape asymmetry rather than complex mechanical mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is divided into separate keyed post and receiver components that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The keyed post integrates the bearing shaft and latching mechanism, while the receiver provides the retention structure, allowing each segment to be optimized independently for its specific function
2Reliability
If a latching mechanism with spring-biased protrusion is implemented to provide secure retention, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to increased force requirements for engagement and disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The latching protrusion is spring-biased to automatically engage with the retention edge when the keyed post is inserted, providing secure retention without requiring user intervention. For release, the user simply needs to apply minimal force to the tab, which overcomes the spring bias and allows the protrusion to disengage, making the operation self-actuating for engagement and user-friendly for release
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism transitions from a static fixed-position protrusion to a dynamic spring-biased system that can automatically engage and disengage. The spring provides continuous force to maintain engagement during normal use, while allowing easy release when the tab is actuated, adapting the mechanism's behavior based on operational needs
3Adaptability or versatility
If a bearing shaft is added to enable rotational movement, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing shaft is rigidly coupled to the keyed post and integrated with the latching mechanism, merging multiple functions into a single component. The bearing shaft enables rotational movement while the keyed post provides the connection interface, and the latching protrusion secures both, reducing the need for separate alignment and retention mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The keyed post serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical connection interface, supports the bearing shaft for rotational movement, and integrates the latching mechanism for secure retention. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and simplifies the assembly process
4Productivity
If quick disconnect capability is implemented for rapid assembly and disassembly, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential unintended disconnection during physical activities
Solution Approach 1:
The tab is configured with a curved or ergonomic shape that provides mechanical advantage when pulled, allowing users to easily overcome the spring bias and disengage the latching protrusion. The curved geometry concentrates the applied force effectively, enabling quick release with minimal effort while maintaining secure engagement during normal use
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
Enables secure, reliable, and user-friendly connections with controlled rotational movement, enhancing performance and comfort in athletic footwear, performance apparel, and modular systems by minimizing complexity and maintaining secure mechanical attachment.
Implementation Method 1
A latching mechanism includes a latching protrusion that selectively extends proud of an outer surface of the keyed post to engage with a retention edge of the receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable quick disconnect coupling system for apparel and footwear applications provides secure attachment and detachment between components while enabling rotational movement. The system includes a keyed post with a non-radially symmetric cross-sectional profile that inserts into a receiver with a complementary internal profile, preventing unintended rotation of the post within the receiver. A spring-biased latching protrusion extends from the keyed post to engage a retention edge of the receiver when fully inserted. A user-activated release mechanism allows easy detachment by retracting the latching protrusion, via configurations such as an upstanding tab or a push-button. A bearing shaft extending from the keyed post rotatably couples with an annular portion of a connected component, enabling rotational movement while maintaining secure attachment.