Spring-Biased Attachment Module for Secure Tool-Free Accessory Swaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer products such as watches, cameras, and glasses often lack user-friendly attachment systems, requiring special tools for accessory removal or replacement, and may not provide adequate retention force, affecting their elegance and usability.
Innovation Solution
An attachment system with a removable module that uses a spring-biased locking mechanism to securely attach and detach accessories from consumer products, allowing for tool-less operation and interchangeability with various products and accessories, maintaining a low profile for aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pin mechanism is used to attach the band to the case, then the attachment is secure, but special tools are required for removal and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system allows the user to perform attachment and detachment operations without requiring external tools or technician assistance. The release button mechanism enables the user to easily detach the band by simply pressing the button, while the attachment tool integrated into the case enables secure attachment without requiring separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a release button for detachment, an attachment tool for attachment, and a pin mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system both secure and user-friendly.
2Reliability
If a robust attachment mechanism is used to provide adequate retention force, then the attachment is secure, but the mechanism becomes large and affects the elegance of the consumer product
Solution Approach 1:
The pin mechanism is nested within the case structure, with the attachment tool and release button integrated into the existing case design. This nesting allows the attachment mechanism to provide robust retention force while maintaining a compact and elegant appearance, as the mechanism components are housed within or on the case rather than extending outward.
3Reliability
If traditional attachment mechanisms are used, then adequate retention force is provided, but user-friendly operation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system allows the user to perform attachment and detachment operations independently without requiring tools or technician assistance. The release button enables easy detachment by simple pressing, and the integrated attachment tool enables secure attachment, making the entire process user-friendly while maintaining robust retention.
4Ease of operation
If a simple attachment mechanism is used for ease of operation, then user-friendly attachment is achieved, but adequate retention force is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The pin mechanism acts as an intermediary between the simple release button operation and the secure attachment requirement. When the release button is pressed, it actuates the pin to detach; when attached, the pin provides robust retention force. This intermediary mechanism translates simple user input into both easy operation and 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 attachment system enhances user convenience by enabling easy and secure attachment/detachment of accessories without tools, providing a robust retention force while maintaining the product's elegance and allowing for interchangeable accessories to adapt to different environments and functions.
Implementation Method 1
spring-biased locking mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A removable module and a housing for an attachment system of a consumer product is described. 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.