Swivel-Lock Quick Release for Single-Handed Tool Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current securing mechanisms for tools, such as drills, require two hands to release, posing a risk for workers who need to use both hands for tasks, especially when working at heights, as they can lead to accidental drops and injuries.
Innovation Solution
A swivel-lock quick release system that allows a tool to be securely attached to a user's harness or belt, enabling single-handed release by a slight upward motion followed by rotation, utilizing a male and female member with a specific slot and protrusion design to lock and unlock the tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is used to securely attach a tool to a user, then the tool security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because both hands are required to remove the tool
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic release state through a simple rotational motion. The cam-shaped protrusion rotates within the slot to disengage the locking engagement, allowing the tool to be removed with a single hand through a dynamic motion rather than requiring static force application with both hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional elements: a cam-shaped protrusion on the tool and a corresponding slot on the harness. This segmentation allows the protrusion to rotate independently within the slot, enabling a simple rotational release motion that separates the locking and releasing functions into different mechanical actions.
2Reliability
If a two-handed locking mechanism is used, then the tool security is improved, but the productivity deteriorates because the user cannot perform other tasks with both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism uses a dynamic rotational motion of the cam-shaped protrusion that can be executed quickly with one hand. This allows the user to secure the tool safely during work, then rapidly release it when needed to perform other tasks, maintaining both security and productivity through efficient one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-shaped protrusion is designed to be manipulated by the user's natural hand motion when grasping the tool handle. The geometry of the cam and slot arrangement allows the user's own gripping action to initiate the release sequence, making the system self-serviceable with one hand without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to prevent accidental drops, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam-shaped protrusion creates a dynamic locking system where the tool remains securely locked during normal use but can be quickly released through a specific rotational motion. This simple geometric design provides reliable accidental drop prevention while maintaining low complexity, as the cam mechanism naturally resists unintended release forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-shaped protrusion has an asymmetric geometry that provides different mechanical characteristics in different directions. The shape is designed to engage firmly in the locked position while requiring a specific rotational motion to disengage, creating reliable security without complex components. The asymmetric cam profile simplifies the mechanism compared to symmetric locking designs.
Data Source
AI summary
A swivel-lock quick release is described. Embodiments of the swivel-lock quick release can include, but is not limited to, a male member adapted to mate with a female member wherein the male member can be disengaged by lifting and then rotating the male member while continuously lifting the male member. The male member can include a slot adapted to interface with a protrusion from the female member. The male member and the female member can each include an attachment mechanism to couple to various objects and/or tools.