Bowden-Cable Locking Bolt Assembly With One Handle for Multi-Bolt Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Bowdenzug-operated locking bolt systems require multiple handles for securing large components, making it cumbersome and time-consuming to operate multiple locking bolt arrangements simultaneously, especially when components are difficult to access manually.
Innovation Solution
A locking bolt system with a single handle that operates multiple Bowden trains in parallel, allowing for simultaneous actuation of multiple locking bolt arrangements via a common handle, eliminating the need for complex cable distributors and multiple handles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple handles are used to operate multiple locking bolt arrangements, then each locking bolt can be actuated individually, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple Bowden cable actuating mechanisms into a single integrated handle assembly. The handle (41) serves as a common actuating element that simultaneously controls multiple locking bolt arrangements (3a, 3b) through separate Bowden cables (15a, 15b). This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate handles, allowing a single operator to actuate all locking bolts by manipulating one handle, thereby significantly improving ease of operation and reducing the time required to secure or release components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single handle (41) is designed with multi-functionality to serve as the actuating mechanism for multiple locking bolt arrangements simultaneously. The handle incorporates multiple abutments (42a, 42b) that interface with different Bowden cable sheaths (17), enabling one universal component to control several locking functions. This universal design allows the same handle structure to perform the work of multiple specialized handles, improving operational efficiency without sacrificing individual control over each locking arrangement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cable distributor is used to couple Bowden cables, then multiple locking pins can be actuated with one handle, but the installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the handle assembly into distinct functional zones, with separate abutments (42a, 42b) for each Bowden cable sheath (17). Each abutment is independently positioned and structured to receive and interface with its corresponding Bowden cable, while all segments are integrated into the single handle body. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and simplifies installation, as each cable can be independently routed and connected to its designated abutment within the handle, eliminating the need for complex cable distributor assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle (41) itself serves as an intermediary structure that directly couples the Bowden cables (15a, 15b) to the actuating mechanism, eliminating the need for a separate cable distributor component. The abutments (42a, 42b) formed on the handle act as intermediate coupling points where each Bowden cable sheath (17) is received and secured. This direct intermediary approach simplifies the overall system architecture by integrating the cable distribution function into the handle structure itself, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining the capability to actuate multiple locking pins.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking bolt system (1) comprising: - at least two locking bolt assemblies (3a, 3b), each with a locking bolt (2) that is movable in a bolt sleeve (5) along a bolt axis (BA), and - an actuating arrangement (4) with a handle (41), a handle sleeve (40) and at least two Bowden cables (15a, 15b), wherein the handle is movable in the handle sleeve between a retracted position and an extended position along a handle axis (GA), and is in particular captive, wherein each Bowden cable comprises a Bowden cable sheath (17) and a core (16), and each Bowden cable couples one of the locking bolts to the handle, wherein the handle sleeve directly or indirectly forms at least two handle-side abutments (42a, 42b) for a respective rear stop end (44) of a respective Bowden cable sheath.and wherein at least two cores of the Bowden cables are securely attached to the handle. The invention facilitates, with minimal effort, the remote actuation of several locking bolt assemblies that together secure two components against mutual displacement.