Bi-fold Knife Locking Mechanism with Segmented Latch and Detente
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bi-fold knives lack a simple, inexpensive, and fail-proof locking mechanism to securely maintain the blade in both extended and closed positions, posing safety risks due to potential inadvertent opening or closure.
Innovation Solution
A bi-fold knife locking mechanism that uses a minimal number of components, featuring a rotatable locking mechanism with a latch engaging a slot to secure the open position and a détente mechanism with a locking post for the closed position, allowing easy activation and secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the blade in extended and closed positions, then safety and reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two separate functional components: a locking mechanism with latch and slot for securing the open position, and a détente mechanism with locking post for securing the closed position. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall system manageable in complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on blade position. When the blade is opened, the latch automatically engages with the slot to secure it. When the blade is closed, the détente mechanism's locking post automatically engages with the locking mechanism. This self-service feature reduces the need for additional control components
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent inadvertent opening or closure, then safety is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism and détente mechanism are integrated into a unified system where the locking mechanism's latch and slot work together with the détente mechanism's locking post. Both mechanisms share common components such as the spring-loaded détente element and the hinge assembly, reducing the total number of discrete parts that need to be manufactured and assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures the blade in the open position via the latch and slot, and it also serves as an engagement surface for the détente mechanism's locking post to secure the closed position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate securing mechanisms for each position
3Reliability
If existing locking mechanisms are used to prevent inadvertent closure, then safety is improved, but ease of operation and cost-effectiveness deteriorate due to complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on blade position. When the blade is opened, the latch automatically engages with the slot to secure it. When the blade is closed, the détente mechanism's locking post automatically engages with the locking mechanism. This self-service feature reduces the need for additional control components
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded détente element changes its operational state based on the blade position. When the blade is closed, spring pressure forces the locking post into engagement with the locking mechanism. When the blade is opened, the latch engages with the slot, changing the mechanical parameters and disengaging the détente mechanism. This parameter change based on position simplifies operation
Data Source
AI summary
A bi-fold knife locking mechanism is provided which maintains the open and closed positions associated with the bi-fold knife. A locking and release mechanism for changing the bi-fold knife from the closed to the open position is also disclosed. An aperture in the blade portion of the bi-fold knife for ergonomically gripping the bi-fold knife is also disclosed. A locking plate for securing the locking and release mechanism and bi-fold knife in the closed position is also disclosed.