Watch Housing Locking Module for Tool-Free Strap Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer products such as watches, cameras, and glasses often lack user-friendly attachment systems, requiring special tools for accessory removal or replacement, and may not provide adequate retention force, affecting aesthetics and usability.
Innovation Solution
An attachment system featuring a removable module with a spring-biased locking mechanism that securely attaches and detaches accessories from consumer products without the need for tools, allowing for easy interchangeability of accessories and products, maintaining a sleek design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional attachment mechanisms (pins, screws) are used to attach accessories to consumer products, then adequate retention force is provided, but special tools are required for attachment and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a receiving feature in the housing, a locking mechanism with movable and fixed portions, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the accessory to the housing without requiring external tools. The spring-loaded movable locking portion self-actuates upon insertion, and the release mechanism allows user-initiated detachment without specialized equipment
2Reliability
If robust attachment mechanisms are used to provide adequate retention force, then secure attachment is achieved, but the mechanism becomes large and affects product aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components are nested within the housing structure. The movable locking portion is received in a cavity within the housing, and the fixed locking portion is formed as an integral feature of the housing. This nesting allows the attachment mechanism to provide robust retention force while remaining compact and aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes the depth dimension of the housing by extending the channel and receiving features inward from the housing surface. This allows the locking components to be positioned within the housing volume rather than protruding outward, maintaining sleek external dimensions while providing adequate retention force internally
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are attached to consumer products, then functionality is enhanced, but the attachment process requires special tools or technician assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving feature and locking mechanism are designed as standardized components that can accommodate multiple different accessory types. The generic attachment system allows various accessories to be interchangeably mounted to the same housing using the same attachment mechanism, enhancing versatility while maintaining ease of operation through consistent attachment procedures
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 attachment system provides secure and tool-free attachment/detachment of accessories, enhancing user convenience and product aesthetics while allowing for various accessory and product combinations, improving usability and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased locking mechanism that securely attaches and detaches accessories
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a removable module (102) and a housing for an attachment system of a consumer product (104). The removable module includes a locking mechanism comprising a first portion having a substantially planar top surface and second portion that comprises a substantially non-planar bottom surface. The first portion and the second portion are coupled together. The locking mechanism also includes a first spring mechanism coupled between the first portion and the second portion. The first spring mechanism causes the first portion to be biased away from the second portion. The locking mechanism also includes a second spring mechanism. The second spring mechanism causes the substantially planar top surface of the first portion to be biased substantially flush with respect to the removable module and also causes the substantially non-planar bottom surface of the second portion to be biased proud with respect to the removable module.