Spherical Quick-Release Coupling With Magnetic Sliding Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing devices fail to securely release the first part from the second part under full loading and allow movement between the parts in the closed position, making them impractical for applications requiring secure and adjustable connections.
Innovation Solution
A closing device featuring a spherical engaging part with a retaining device and a sliding unit in the second closing unit, which provides a form-fitting connection and magnetic interaction to ensure secure holding and allow rotational movement of up to 360° and swiveling of 45°, enabling easy release under full loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking element is used to secure the peg in the engagement recess, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element automatically returns to its base position after being moved aside during attachment, securing the peg without requiring additional manual operation. This self-service mechanism improves connection reliability while avoiding the need for complex manual locking procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic means are introduced to support the attachment process, replacing purely mechanical interaction with a combination of magnetic attraction and mechanical engagement. This substitution simplifies the attachment operation while maintaining secure connection
2Ease of operation
If the receiving opening size corresponds to the end fitting extension, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connection reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving opening is divided into two functional zones: an opening area for easy insertion and a cut out area for secure retention. This segmentation allows the end fitting to be easily inserted through the opening while being securely held in the cut out, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The slider dynamically changes the effective size of the receiving opening. During insertion, the opening remains large for ease of operation. After insertion, the slider moves to reduce the free cross section, creating a secure fit that prevents accidental disengagement
3Reliability
If engagement protrusions with undercut are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic means are used to assist the attachment process, providing attractive force that guides the engagement protrusions into their recesses. This magnetic assistance overcomes the difficulty of aligning undercut features, maintaining high engagement reliability while significantly improving ease of operation
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 device ensures reliable and secure attachment and detachment of the first part from the second part under full loading, allowing for movement and flexibility in the closed position, suitable for various applications including sports, seafaring, and industrial uses.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic means act between the first closing unit and the second closing unit, being adapted to supporting the attachment of the first closing unit to the second closing unit by providing a magnetic force of attraction
Data Source
AI summary
A closing device for releasably connecting a first part to a second part. The closing device may have a first closing unit including a spherical engaging part, and a first retaining device for attaching the first part. The closing device also may include a second closing unit which has a second retaining device for attaching the second part, and a cut out, which is delimited by a wall, for receiving the spherical engaging part, where the cut out has an opening for inserting the spherical engaging part. A sliding unit may be located in the cut out, the sliding unit being preloaded in the direction of the opening, and the sliding unit can be displaced into an open position and a closed position. In the open position of the sliding unit, the spherical engaging part may be received in the cut out.