Cam-Handle Axle Lock for Single-Sided Roller Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional axle locks for conveyor rollers are difficult to install as they require simultaneous manipulation on both sides of the conveyor frame, posing a challenge for efficient locking and alignment.
Innovation Solution
An axle lock mechanism featuring a locking plate with apertures, a bolt with threads and a cam handle, and a nut, allowing for secure locking and alignment by rotating the cam handle on a pin axis, enabling installation from a single side of the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional axle locks are bolted onto the conveyor frame, then the locking mechanism is secure, but the installation requires simultaneous manipulation on both sides of the frame making it difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking plate that interfaces with the frame, a bolt with threaded portion and non-threaded shank, a cam handle assembly with cam portion and lever, and retaining elements. This segmentation allows the installer to manipulate only the cam handle from one side while the locking plate and bolt secure the other side, eliminating the need for simultaneous two-sided manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate is pre-positioned against the frame with the bolt inserted through it before the cam handle is engaged. The cam handle is then rotated to preliminarily position the lever, which is subsequently locked by the retaining element. This preliminary arrangement of components allows the final securing action to be performed from a single side.
2Productivity
If conventional axle locks require simultaneous manipulation on both sides, then the locking is secure, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the locking mechanism into a locking plate assembly and a cam handle assembly that can be operated independently, the installation process is streamlined to require manipulation from only one side. The locking plate with pre-positioned bolt reduces the steps needed, and the cam handle with lever provides quick engagement, significantly reducing installation time compared to conventional two-sided manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam handle mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the retaining element that locks the lever in place after rotation. Once the cam handle is turned to the locked position, the retaining element automatically secures it, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations or assistance from another side, thereby reducing installation time.
3Ease of operation
If the cam handle is pivoted on the pin axis, then single-sided access is enabled, but the mechanism requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The cam handle assembly merges multiple functions into a compact unit: the cam portion engages with the locking plate to provide leverage, the lever provides the manual input interface, and the pin axis serves as both the rotation pivot and the mounting connection. This merging of functions into integrated components achieves single-sided accessibility without requiring a disproportionate number of separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin axis serves multiple functions: it acts as the rotation pivot for the cam handle, provides the mounting connection between the cam portion and locking plate, and serves as the axis around which the retaining element locks the lever. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components while enabling single-sided operation.
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
Facilitates easy and secure installation of conveyor rollers by allowing single-sided access, ensuring proper alignment and durability, while replacing cumbersome conventional bolted mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
pivoting the cam handle on the pin axis locks the locking plate to the frame
Implementation Method 2
a bolt defining a first portion having a plurality of threads, and a second portion having a pin aperture
Data Source
AI summary
An axle lock for coupling a roller to a frame is disclosed. The axle lock comprises a locking plate having a first locking plate aperture and a second locking plate aperture. Further, the first locking plate aperture allows an axle of the roller to be positioned within a cam handle. A bolt extending through the second locking plate aperture, the bolt having a first portion having a plurality of threads, a second portion having a pin aperture. Further, a pin is positioned within the cam aperture and the pin aperture, and a nut. Further, the locking plate is positioned between the nut and the cam handle. Further, the nut is configured to pass through a frame aperture of the frame. Further, pivoting the cam handle on the pin axis locks the locking plate to the frame when the frame is positioned between the nut and the locking plate.