Spring Clip Key Assist Device for Secure Attachment and Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key ring systems require considerable dexterity for attaching and detaching keys, leading to inefficiency and a risk of key loss, especially during activities like sports, where keys may inadvertently detach or get lost.
Innovation Solution
A spring clip-based key assist device that securely attaches to a key ring and can be easily manipulated to detach and reattach, allowing the key to be clipped onto clothing items, reducing the need for complex dexterity and preventing accidental detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a key is attached to a split ring using conventional key rings, then the key can be carried conveniently, but attaching and detaching the key requires considerable dexterity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The key assist device is divided into distinct functional components: a clamping member for gripping the key, a bridge section connecting to the split ring, and a clothing item engagement feature. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, making the overall attachment and detachment process simpler and faster than conventional key rings.
Solution Approach 2:
The key assist device acts as an intermediary between the key and the split ring. Instead of directly attaching the key to the split ring, the device provides a mediating structure that simplifies the attachment process while securing the key firmly, thereby reducing both the time and dexterity required.
2Reliability
If a key is attached to a split ring, then the key can be carried on the person, but the key may inadvertently detach during activities like sports
Solution Approach 1:
The key assist device incorporates features that prevent inadvertent detachment before it can occur. The clamping member is designed to firmly grip the key, and the bridge section is configured to resist accidental release during physical activities, thereby counteracting the potential harmful effect of key loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge section is designed with a curved configuration that allows it to flex and adapt to movements during activities like sports. This curvature enables the device to maintain secure attachment while accommodating the dynamic movements of the body, preventing the key from detaching during physical activities.
3Productivity
If a key is held or carried separately during activities, then it can be accessed when needed, but this is time-consuming and can lead to loss
Solution Approach 1:
The key assist device serves multiple functions: it secures the key to the split ring, provides a means to attach the key to clothing items, and prevents inadvertent detachment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actions of holding, carrying, and reattaching the key, thereby improving efficiency and reducing time loss during activities.
4Ease of operation
If a key is suspended from a split ring, then it can be freely accessed, but it may repeatedly hit the user's body during sports activities
Solution Approach 1:
The key assist device allows the key to be nested within its structure, with the clamping member securing the key and the bridge section connecting to the split ring. This nested configuration prevents the key from swinging freely and impacting the user's body during sports activities, while still maintaining easy accessibility when needed.
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 key assist device simplifies key handling, reduces the time and dexterity required for attachment and detachment, and prevents keys from being lost during activities by securely clipping them to clothing, ensuring safe carrying.
Implementation Method 1
a spring clip designed such that a key can be freely and suspended from a key ring's split ring
Implementation Method 2
a clamping member (103) resiliently flexibly mounted on the base member (102) for forming a clamping zone therebetween and preventing a split ring (11) from inadvertently being detached from the spring clip (100)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 4A~4C
AI summary
Key assist devices for enabling a user to conveniently and repeatedly attach a key to a key ring's split ring and detach it therefrom and, during its detachment, securely clamp the key to a clothing item for safely carrying the key. The key assist devices include a spring clip with the interchangeability functionality of freely and directly suspending a key from a key ring's split ring and clamping the key on a clothing item. The key assist devices are designed such that they are unable to merely slide off a split ring but rather requires a specific user manipulation.