Auto-Reset Locking Coupling with Shuttle and Movable Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing releasable mechanical couplings require manual intervention for reconnection and can be hazardous, with complex engagement and locking mechanisms that may lead to damage if not correctly aligned, and lack automatic resetting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism featuring a movable stop that automatically resets for reconnection, utilizing resilient biasing means and a bistable mechanism to ensure reliable locking and unlocking, allowing for automatic re-engagement without manual intervention and enhanced safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual means are provided for moving the plunger to the released position, then the coupling can be remade, but the mechanism becomes more complex and presents safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism automatically resets the plunger to the released position using a resilient biasing means (spring) after the locking balls are retracted. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual intervention to reset the coupling, simplifying the operation while maintaining the ability to remake the coupling connection.
2Reliability
If the plunger is biased towards the locked position, then the mechanical connection is maintained, but the coupling cannot be easily released
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two states: during normal operation, the resilient biasing means keeps the plunger in the locked position for reliable connection; during release, a release mechanism (such as a button or lever) temporarily overcomes this bias to allow plunger movement to the released position, enabling easy release when needed.
3Productivity
If forcing engagement without correct alignment is attempted, then connection speed increases, but damage occurs and coupling becomes inoperative
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling design incorporates preliminary alignment features such as tapered surfaces or guide elements that automatically align the locking balls with the recesses before final engagement. This preliminary action ensures correct positioning is achieved automatically during the engagement process, allowing fast connection without risk of damage or misalignment.
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 mechanism provides a robust, adaptable, and reliable automatic locking and unlocking system, ensuring foolproof operation and reducing the risk of damage during reconnection, with automatic resetting capabilities for efficient and safe use.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing resilient biasing means and a bistable mechanism to ensure reliable locking and unlocking
Implementation Method 2
utilizing resilient biasing means and a bistable mechanism to ensure reliable locking and unlocking
Data Source
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AI summary
A coupling mechanism (10) for securing a first object (16) to a second object (24) comprises a well (14) formed in or securable to the first object and a lug (22) formed on or securable to the second object. A shuttle (34) is movable within the lug (22). A first resilient biasing means (48) is arranged to bias the shuttle (34) away from a base of the well (14) when the lug (22) is inserted in the well. A plurality of locking elements (36) are each movable radially in the lug (22), between a retracted position allowing free insertion and withdrawal of the lug (22) into and from the well (14), and an extended position in which the locking element (36) projects into a recess (38) formed in a side wall of the well so as to lock the lug in the well. Each locking element (36) is movable from the retracted position and retained in the extended position by a first surface profile of the shuttle (34). The coupling mechanism (10) comprises a movable stop (30, 32, 42, 44) having: a first position in which the biased movement of the shuttle (34) is limited so that the locking elements (36) interact with the first surface profile of the shuttle (34), and a second position in which the biased movement of the shuttle (34) is extended so as to cause the locking elements (36) to interact with a second surface profile of the shuttle (34) which moves the locking elements (36) from their extended position to their retracted position, thereby allowing withdrawal of the lug (22) from the well and disconnection of the first and second objects (16, 24).