Multiple-Utility Release Buckle for Simultaneous Harness and Utility Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple-utility release buckles for vehicle safety harnesses do not allow simultaneous release of harness belts and utility connections with ease, requiring significant effort and bulkiness.
Innovation Solution
A cam release assembly with a utility release assembly featuring a special retainer pin, fitting block, and lever mechanism that enables the simultaneous release of harness belts and utility connections, such as air, water, and radio connections, using a one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional separate release mechanism is used for harness belts and utility connections, then each connection can be released independently, but the release process requires significant effort and time, and cannot be accomplished with one-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the harness belt release mechanism and utility connection release mechanism into a single integrated buckle assembly. The cam release assembly simultaneously controls both the harness belts and utility connections, allowing both to be released by a single lever operation. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate release operations, enabling one-handed operation and significantly reducing release time.
Solution Approach 2:
The buckle assembly is pre-configured with aligned cam mechanisms and retainer pins that are positioned to simultaneously engage both harness belts and utility connections. The lever is pre-positioned to trigger both release mechanisms simultaneously when actuated. This preliminary arrangement ensures that upon activation, both connections are released at the same time without requiring sequential operations.
2Ease of operation
If a simple release mechanism is used, then the operation is easy and quick, but the mechanism lacks the strength and reliability needed for safety harness applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cam surfaces with specific curved geometries that provide mechanical advantage during the release operation. The cam profiles are designed with optimized curvature to ensure smooth, controlled release while maintaining strong engagement during normal use. The curved cam surfaces distribute forces evenly and provide progressive release, enhancing both reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer pin acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the lever mechanism and the utility connections. The pin translates the rotational motion of the lever into linear displacement that simultaneously releases both harness belts and utility connections. This intermediary component ensures reliable force transmission while maintaining the simplicity of the overall mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple utility connections are integrated into the buckle, then simultaneous release is enabled, but the device becomes more complex and bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle assembly is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of utility connections (air, water, electrical) through standardized fittings. The cam release mechanism provides a universal release function that works for all connected utilities simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows a single mechanism to handle diverse connection types without increasing complexity proportionally.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility connection interface is segmented into modular fittings that can be independently attached or detached from the buckle body. Each utility connection has its own fitting and retainer pin, but all are controlled by the single lever mechanism. This segmentation allows for easy maintenance, replacement, and configuration of individual utilities without affecting the overall mechanism or other connections.
4Volume of moving object
If a compact buckle design is used, then the device is easier to handle and install, but the mechanism may lack the strength and durability required for racing harness applications
Solution Approach 1:
The utility fittings and retainer pins are nested within the compact buckle housing, with components arranged in a space-efficient configuration. The cam mechanism is integrated into the buckle body rather than being an external addition. This nesting arrangement maintains the strength and durability of traditional harness buckles while significantly reducing the overall volume and improving handleability.
Solution Approach 2:
The buckle assembly utilizes composite construction with high-strength materials for critical load-bearing components. The cam and retainer pin are made from durable, high-strength materials that maintain connection integrity despite the reduced size. This selective material usage ensures that the compact design does not compromise the strength and durability required for racing safety applications.
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 compact and efficient mechanism for releasing all harness and utility connections with minimal effort, enhancing safety and usability in racing gear applications.
Implementation Method 1
a cam release assembly surmounted by a utility release assembly
Implementation Method 2
There is a lever attached to and surmounting a cam actuator of the cam release assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple-utility release buckles used in passive restraint systems for human occupants of vehicles. These types of buckles are typically useful in one embodiment, as a buckle for a safety harness that is commonly used in racing gear, such as automobile racing.