Spring-Loaded Locking Clip for Secure Device Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spring-loaded attachment clips for electronic devices are prone to inadvertent disconnection due to external forces, posing safety risks and potential loss of communication devices for emergency responders.
Innovation Solution
The attachment clips incorporate a locking mechanism that secures the clip in a closed position using a rotating or sliding locking member, coupled with a torsion spring to ensure secure attachment, allowing single-handed operation and automatic return to a locked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring-loaded attachment clip is used, then easy attachment and detachment are achieved, but inadvertent disconnection occurs due to external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment clip is segmented into distinct functional components: a spring-loaded clip member for attachment/detachment operations and a separate locking member for securing the attached state. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function - the spring mechanism provides ease of operation while the locking member provides reliability, resolving the contradiction between easy operation and secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is positioned and configured in advance to engage with the clip member before any external forces can cause disconnection. The locking protrusion is pre-aligned with the receiving structure, and the spring is pre-loaded to maintain the locked state. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when attachment occurs, the locking mechanism is already in place to prevent inadvertent disconnection, thus achieving both ease of operation and reliability.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent inadvertent disconnection, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing spring-loaded clip structure rather than being a completely separate system. The locking member is integrated into the clip body, sharing common components such as the spring assembly and pivot points. This merging approach allows the locking function to be added while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity, as the new locking features utilize the structural framework already provided by the spring-loaded mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the existing spring force. When the clip member is pushed into the attached position, the spring automatically drives the locking member into the locked state without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. Similarly, the locking member self-unlocks when the clip is pulled away from the attachment. This self-service design achieves reliable locking while keeping the structure simple, as the mechanism uses its own internal forces rather than requiring external control.
3Reliability
If a locking member is incorporated, then accidental opening is prevented, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member serves multiple functions within a single component: it provides the locking protrusion to prevent accidental opening, acts as a lever for user-operated unlocking, and works in conjunction with the spring mechanism to maintain the locked state. By designing the locking member to perform these multiple functions, the patent reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in the number of parts while still achieving reliable prevention of accidental opening.
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 solution provides a secure and reliable attachment that prevents accidental opening, ensuring devices remain connected under various conditions, particularly in hazardous environments, while maintaining ease of use and quick detachment when needed.
Implementation Method 1
a spring coupled to the first member and configured to apply a torque to rotate the first member toward the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods are provided for an attachment clip with a locking member, the attachment clip providing a secure connection between an object and a device, such as a portable communication device. The attachment clip may be configured to pivot on an axis between a closed position and an open position with a spring configured to apply a torque to return the attachment clip to the closed position. Once a device has been secured and the attachment clip is in the closed position, a locking member may enter a locked position and thereby prevent the attachment clip from inadvertently pivoting to the open position.