Two-Stage Quick Release Interconnect Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick release connectors lack a two-stage mechanism for reversible attachment and locking of objects while allowing rotation along an axis, and often rely on pawls or flexible cams, which are not universally applicable.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage quick release interconnect and locking device featuring a uniquely shaped female receptacle that accepts a male structure only in specific rotational orientations, utilizing a cylindrical male post with a D-disc and a contoured central channel with initial and final stops, allowing secure attachment and easy release through rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional quick release connector is used, then easy release is achieved, but secure locking and rotational stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two distinct stages: an initial engagement stage where the male element inserts into the female receptacle, and a secondary locking stage where rotation engages additional locking surfaces. This segmentation allows the connector to provide both easy initial attachment and secure locked positioning through rotational movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static engagement state to a dynamic rotational state. The male element is designed to rotate within the female receptacle after initial insertion, transforming the connection from a simple insertable joint to an actively locked position through controlled rotational movement, thereby enhancing security while maintaining ease of release.
2Reliability
If a pawl or flexible cam mechanism is used, then secure locking is achieved, but device complexity and limited applicability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for traditional pawl or flexible cam mechanisms from the connector design. Instead, secure locking is achieved through the geometric configuration of the male and female elements themselves, where the shape of the male element and its interaction with the female receptacle during rotation provides the locking action without requiring separate pawl or cam components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector elements are designed to perform their own locking function through their geometric shapes. The male element's specific geometry allows it to engage and lock within the female receptacle through rotation, without requiring external locking mechanisms or additional components to provide the securing action.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal connector design is used, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The male and female connector elements feature asymmetric geometric profiles that guide rotational orientation during engagement. The specific asymmetric shapes of the male element and its corresponding female receptacle create natural alignment features that guide the connector into the correct rotational position, reducing the need for high-precision manufacturing tolerances while ensuring proper orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The initial insertion phase of the connector performs a preliminary alignment function. The male element's geometry is designed to guide itself into the correct rotational orientation as it enters the female receptacle, establishing the proper angular position before final locking engagement occurs, thereby reducing precision requirements for the final locked position.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release interconnect and locking device having a base plate with a post A circular and planar D-shaped disc is disposed on an end of the post. The apparatus has a female element with a contoured channel. A keeper plate with a vertical slot is placed over the contoured channel. A medial portion of the contoured channel includes an upper locking face terminating at a lower end in radius, such that when the D-disc is aligned parallel with the upper locking face, the D-disc may be translated downwardly until it encounters a locking portion, where it may again be rotated to bring the sliding face into alignment with a locking face and may then be translated downwardly to a semi-circular portion at the bottom of the contoured channel, where it may be rotated to lock it in the lower locking portion.