Skate Quick Release Tab Slot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current skate assemblies require cumbersome processes to change frames and wheels, necessitating the removal of center wheels, frame bolts, and often the liner to access and replace components, making it difficult to switch between different skating styles efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A tab and slot engagement mechanism combined with a push button release system allows for quick and tool-free removal and replacement of soul plates and grind plates, enabling secure attachment and easy exchange of skate components, such as frames and wheels, between different skating styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fastening systems with T-nuts and frame bolts are used, then secure attachment of soul plate and components is achieved, but the process of changing frames and wheels becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into modular components: a retention member with multiple retention elements, a soul plate with corresponding engagement features, and a frame with mounting features. This segmentation allows independent replacement and adjustment of components without affecting the entire assembly, enabling quick changes while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system transitions from a static, permanent fastening method to a dynamic, adjustable system. The retention elements can be quickly engaged and disengaged, allowing the soul plate and frames to be dynamically reconfigured between different skating styles without time-consuming removal and reinstallation of multiple bolts and T-nuts.
2Strength
If multiple fasteners and T-nuts are used to secure components, then structural integrity is maintained, but the complexity of the assembly process increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single integrated retention member. The retention member combines multiple retention elements, engagement features, and locking mechanisms into one component that secures the soul plate to the frame, eliminating the need for separate T-nuts and multiple frame bolts while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the soul plate to the frame, provides adjustment capability for different skating styles, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functional design replaces several specialized fasteners with a single universal component that performs all necessary functions.
3Reliability
If traditional bolt and T-nut systems are used, then components are securely fastened, but tool removal and reinstallation is required for component changes
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is designed to be self-servicing, allowing users to quickly engage and disengage components without external tools. The retention elements feature self-locking mechanisms that maintain secure fastening during use but allow tool-free release when needed, enabling easy component replacement while maintaining reliable attachment during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Quick release systems and methods are provided which may be used with a skate assembly comprising a boot, a soul plate, and a grind plate. A first component, which may be a soul plate, has a tab and slot engagement mechanism. A second component, which may be a grind plate, defines at least one aperture and is engaged with at least a portion of the first component. At least one push button is accessible via the at least one aperture. When the second component is in an inward position it maintains the tab and slot engagement mechanism in a locked position and when the second component is in an outward position it unlocks the tab and slot engagement mechanism. When the push button is not pressed, it maintains the second component in the inward position and when the push button is pressed it facilitates movement of the second component to the outward position.