Block Lock Comb Interlocking for Short Latching Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing block lock arrangements for connecting chain ends in the mining and materials handling industries have a lengthy locking path, which complicates handling and maintenance within chain conveyor channels.
Innovation Solution
A block lock arrangement with comb-like interlocking ends and a pin and pin receptacle system, where the locking path is reduced by minimizing the displacement path to less than 10% of the chain link diameter, eliminating the need for additional projections or cams, and utilizing angled pins and complementary bevels for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If traditional block lock designs with additional projections or cams are used, then the locking mechanism provides secure engagement, but the locking path becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes unnecessary additional projections or cams from the block lock design, retaining only the essential pin and pin receptacle mechanism. This extraction of redundant elements directly shortens the locking path while preserving the core locking function through the comb-like interlocking of the two block lock halves.
Solution Approach 2:
The block lock is divided into two complementary halves that interlock in a comb-like manner. Each half has corresponding teeth that engage with each other, allowing the locking mechanism to achieve secure engagement through multiple distributed contact points rather than a single long cam movement, thereby reducing the overall locking path length.
2Ease of operation
If the locking path is reduced to less than 10% of chain link diameter, then handling and maintenance become easier, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated mechanism. The comb-like interlocking of block lock halves performs both the guiding and locking functions simultaneously, while the pin and pin receptacle provide both positioning and securing functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate cams or additional projections, reducing device complexity despite the shortened locking path.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a block lock (1) for connecting two chain ends (2). In the latched state, the block lock (1) has two opposing block lock halves (5) which extend in a longitudinal direction (L), interengage in a positively locking manner in each case via a peg (8) and a peg receptacle (9), and latch by forming at least one receiving opening, preferably two receiving openings, for receiving a chain link (3). The block lock halves (5) interengage by meshing with one another at their ends (7).