Spring-Loaded Load Disconnect With Multidirectional Force Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-carrying systems suffer from untimely disconnections and blockages, and the force required for disconnection varies significantly based on the mass of the payload, often requiring a single directional action.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically actuated disconnecting device using spring-loaded jaw carabiners with guides that ensure a constant opening force, allowing disconnection in multiple directions through a system of connecting members and triggering means, independent of the load's mass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a mechanical connection system is used to secure the load-carrying system, then the connection strength is improved, but the force required for disconnection increases significantly due to payload mass transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnection function is segmented into two independent mechanical connection parts (e.g., two carabiners) instead of relying on a single connection point. This segmentation distributes the load and allows independent operation of each connection part, reducing the force required on any single component while maintaining overall connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
A connecting member (rope, cable, or chain) acts as an intermediary element that transmits the disconnection force from the triggering means to both mechanical connection parts. This intermediary allows the user to apply force in a convenient direction while the guides redirect it to effectively open both connections simultaneously, regardless of the load mass.
2Ease of operation
If a single directional action is used for disconnection, then the operation simplicity is improved, but the reliability decreases due to untimely disconnections and blockages
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from single-directional operation to multi-directional operation by introducing guides that redirect forces from any spatial direction onto the mechanical connection parts. The guides convert forces applied in various directions (up, down, left, right) into the specific directional force needed to open the carabiners, making the disconnection reliable regardless of the load orientation or user position.
Solution Approach 2:
The triggering means and connecting member system serves multiple functions: it can be actuated from any direction, it simultaneously controls both mechanical connection parts, and it works effectively regardless of the load's mass or orientation. This multi-functionality enhances both ease of operation and reliability.
3Reliability
If the disconnection force depends on the payload mass, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to variable and potentially excessive force requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism in the mechanical connection parts (e.g., spring carabiners) provides a counteracting force that balances the load weight. The spring force is pre-calibrated to overcome the gravitational force on the payload, allowing disconnection with a constant, manageable force independent of the actual load mass. The guides ensure this spring force is effectively utilized regardless of the direction of the applied disconnection force.
4Reliability
If a complex mechanical system with guides and multiple connection parts is used, then the disconnection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection parts (spring carabiners) are self-actuating through their built-in spring mechanisms. When the connecting member is pulled in any direction, the guides redirect this force to automatically trigger the spring-loaded opening mechanism. The system serves itself by using the user's input force (in any direction) to activate the pre-loaded spring, eliminating the need for complex control systems or multiple actuation points.
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
Ensures reliable and consistent disconnection regardless of load mass, preventing untimely openings and allowing multi-directional operation, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The mechanical connection part can be a spring-loaded jaw carabiner
Implementation Method 2
the force required for disconnection may be significant due to a transfer of forces due to the mass of the payload
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for disconnecting by means of a mechanical action, comprising at least one mechanical connection piece (5), in particular a spring-loaded buckle (5), connected to at least one trigger means (6) via at least one connecting member (8a, 8b), and a release lever configured to be triggered by applying a force in a predefined opening direction. The disconnect device also comprises at least one guide (9a, 9b, 9c) for the connecting member (8a, 8b) configured to redirect a force applied to the trigger means (6), when the opening is required, to the mechanical connection piece (5) connected to the connecting member (8a, 8b) in the predefined direction.