Spring-Loaded Actuating Arm with Detachable Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuators for moving furniture flaps are prone to injury risks due to lightweight actuating arms that can shoot out if not properly connected, and they are difficult to handle and package due to their design.
Innovation Solution
The actuating arm features mechanical locking connections at both ends for detachable attachment to a base body on the furniture and the flap, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, reduced packaging, and adjustable length for various flap sizes, using interlockable locking elements and spring-loaded retainers for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the actuating arm is made lightweight, then the actuator becomes easier to operate, but the actuating arm can shoot out like a bullet causing injury if not connected
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating arm is divided into separate components that can be detached. The locking mechanism is segmented into a locking element on the actuating arm and a corresponding locking receptacle on the base body, allowing the arm to be safely disconnected when not in use while maintaining lightweight construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage before the actuating arm can be accidentally ejected. The spring-loaded locking element automatically locks into the locking receptacle when the arm is inserted, preventing ejection before the user intentionally disassembles it.
2Reliability
If the actuating arm is fixed onto the base body, then the connection is secure, but the actuator becomes difficult to handle and requires large packaging space
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the actuating arm and base body is made dynamic rather than static. The locking mechanism allows the arm to be firmly fixed during operation for reliability, but can be quickly released when handling or packaging is needed, transforming the connection from permanent to temporarily fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is extracted as a separate functional component that can be engaged or disengaged independently. The actuating arm can be removed from the base body when not in use, allowing compact packaging and easy handling while maintaining secure connection during operation.
3Ease of operation
If the actuating arm is made detachable, then handling and packaging are simplified, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes elaborate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through spring-loaded automatic engagement. When the actuating arm is inserted into the base body, the spring-loaded locking element automatically locks into place without requiring manual assembly steps, simplifying the attachment process while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-step mechanical assembly process is replaced with a simple insertion and locking mechanism. The spring-loaded locking element automatically engages with the locking receptacle through a single pivoting movement, eliminating the need for elaborate assembly procedures while ensuring reliable connection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single base body design is used for various flaps, then adaptability increases, but the locking mechanism must accommodate different sizes and weights
Solution Approach 1:
The base body and locking mechanism are designed with universal compatibility for different flap sizes and weights. The locking element and locking receptacle are designed with standardized dimensions and engagement features that work across various flap configurations, allowing one base body design to serve multiple purposes without requiring complex adjustments.
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
This design enhances safety by preventing actuating arm ejection, simplifies handling and packaging, and allows for versatile attachment to different furniture sizes with the same base body, reducing logistical complexities and structural costs.
Implementation Method 1
one locking element of the mechanical locking connection comprises a preferably spring-loaded retainer which can be locked together with the other locking element
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator for moving a flap of a piece of furniture includes a spring loaded actuating arm and a mechanical locking connection provided at each end of the actuating arm. The mechanical locking connections connect the arm in a detachable manner to a body of the piece of furniture and to the flap of the piece of furniture. By this arrangement the actuating arm can be hinged in a simple manner to the base body and removed again if necessary.