Adjustable Cam Arrangement for Lock Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cam arrangements for lock mechanisms are limited to two fixed sizes (7.7mm and 9mm), failing to provide a flexible solution for applications requiring different cam sizes, and lack an efficient mechanism for automatic adjustment between these sizes.
Innovation Solution
A cam arrangement with a moveable cam that can adjust between two axial positions using a biasing member, such as a compressible or extendable spring washer, allowing it to project either 7.7mm or 9mm from the supporting member, with automatic resetting capabilities, and optional rotatability for adjusting contact pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single cam type is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability is worsened because conventional cams are limited to two fixed sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The cam is made dynamically adjustable between two axial positions (7.7mm and 9mm projection distances) through a biasing member mechanism. This allows a single cam design to adapt to different size requirements by moving between positions, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size cam types while maintaining size adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the projection distance parameter of the cam by allowing it to move between two axial positions. The biasing member enables the cam to be positioned at either 7.7mm or 9mm from the supporting member surface, effectively changing the cam size parameter without requiring different cam designs.
2Ease of operation
If automatic resetting mechanism is added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member provides automatic resetting functionality by utilizing elastic potential energy storage and release. When the cam is displaced from its neutral position, the biasing member stores energy and automatically returns the cam to its original position when the displacement force is removed, enabling self-service resetting without additional complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member creates periodic action through its elastic deformation and recovery cycle. Each displacement of the cam followed by release triggers a periodic return motion, providing automatic resetting through the natural oscillatory behavior of the elastic element.
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
Enables a single cam type to cover both conventional sizes, providing flexibility and ease of use by allowing automatic adjustment between axial positions, ensuring secure engagement with corresponding slots or apertures in closure frames.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member, the biasing member being compressible between the supporting member and the cam upon movement of the cam from the first axial position to the second axial position
Implementation Method 2
the biasing member being compressible between the supporting member and the cam upon movement of the cam from the first axial position to the second axial position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A cam arrangement (10) is provided for a lock mechanism (12) of a closure (50), e.g. a window or door closure. The cam arrangement (10) is configured to be mounted on a supporting member (16) of the lock mechanism (12) and comprises a cam (14) which is moveable between first and second axial positions with or against a biasing force provided by a biasing member (18). The first axial position may comprise a position at which the cam (14) projects a first distance from a surface (28) of the supporting member (16), and the second axial position may comprise a position at which the cam (14) projects a second distance from the surface (28) of the supporting member (16).