Cam-Actuated Dual Lock for Woodworking Support Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing woodworking accessories face challenges in securely locking their position relative to woodworking supports, particularly in maintaining alignment and stability during operations, as they rely on friction fits that can be unreliable and require multiple actuatable locks for precise positioning.
Innovation Solution
A dual-lock mechanism integrated with a mechanical actuator that allows simultaneous locking and unlocking of the accessory's position within the guide recess of the woodworking support, using a cam system to adjust the width of the locks and secure the accessory in place with a single actuator input, ensuring precise alignment and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple individually actuatable locks are used to lock the accessory in the guide recess, then the reliability of positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The lock engages with the guide recess at multiple points simultaneously through a unified structure, eliminating the need for multiple separately actuatable locks while maintaining reliable positioning. This merging approach reduces device complexity while preserving positioning reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a friction fit is used to lock the accessory position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static friction fit to a dynamic engagement system. The lock is designed to actively engage with complementary features in the guide recess, creating a positive mechanical interlock rather than relying on friction alone. This dynamic engagement provides reliable positioning while maintaining ease of operation through smooth engagement and disengagement movements.
3Reliability
If the lock width is increased to improve gripping in the guide recess, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to tighter fit
Solution Approach 1:
The lock design incorporates dimensional variation along its length, with different sections having different widths. The engagement portion has a width that provides reliable gripping in the guide recess, while the actuator portion maintains dimensions that facilitate easy operation. This dimensional differentiation allows the lock to achieve both reliable positioning and ease of operation by optimizing different sections for different functions.
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 dual-lock mechanism provides enhanced security and stability by ensuring both locks are engaged simultaneously, maintaining the accessory's position accurately along the guide recess and angled directions, improving the reliability of woodworking operations.
Implementation Method 1
using a cam system to adjust the width of the locks and secure the accessory in place with a single actuator input
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary accessories for use with woodworking supports of woodworking devices may include a first number of locks actuatable by a second number of actuators, the second number being less than the first number. An exemplary actuator is a cam type actuator.