Comb-Interlocking Block Lock for Shorter Chain Locking Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing block locks for connecting chain ends require a longer locking distance, which complicates handling and maintenance in chain conveyor systems.
Innovation Solution
A block lock design with two oppositely located halves that interengage in a form-fitting comb-like manner, utilizing stubs and sockets for locking, and comb-like fork extensions for interengagement, reducing the locking distance in the longitudinal direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional block-lock halves with additional projections and protuberances are used, then the locking state is reliable, but the locking distance in the longitudinal direction becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes unnecessary additional projections and protuberances from the block-lock halves, extracting only the essential stub and stub socket components needed for reliable locking. This simplification reduces the locking distance while maintaining the core locking function through the stub-stub socket engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The block-lock halves are segmented into functional zones: the stub region for primary engagement, the comb-like fork extensions for secondary interengagement, and the accommodating opening for chain links. This segmentation allows each component to contribute specifically to locking reliability without adding excessive longitudinal distance.
2Ease of operation
If the block-lock halves are placed one inside the other in the transverse direction, then the initial meshing is improved, but the overall locking distance may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions the primary locking mechanism from longitudinal engagement to transverse engagement by placing block-lock halves one inside the other. The stub and stub socket are positioned to engage in the transverse direction, allowing the halves to nest closely together and reducing the longitudinal locking distance while improving ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If comb-like fork extensions are used for interengagement, then the structural complexity is reduced, but the transmission of tensile force may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple locking functions into the comb-like fork extensions: they provide structural interengagement between halves, guide the stub-stub socket engagement, and contribute to tensile force transmission. This integration achieves reliable strength transmission while maintaining simplified structure without additional projections.
Data Source
AI summary
A block lock for connecting two chain ends, wherein, in the locked state, the block lock has two oppositely located block-lock halves which extend in the longitudinal direction, interengage in a form-fitting manner via a respective stub and stub socket and lock to form at least one accommodating opening, preferably two accommodating openings, for accommodating a chain link. The block-lock halves interengage in a comb-like manner at their ends.