Cam-Locked Retaining Assembly for Tool-Free Secure Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems require multiple fasteners and tools for installation and removal, making them cumbersome and difficult to use in hard-to-reach locations, especially when interchangeability and quick installation are needed.
Innovation Solution
A retaining system with a cam and alignment guides that allows for tool-free insertion and secure attachment of a support shoe to a base plate, using a pin to bias the cam into a locked position and a keyway for easy rotation to the unlocked position for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple fasteners (e.g., bolts in each corner) are used to secure an object, then the retention strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring multiple fasteners and tools for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single cam mechanism. The cam, when rotated, simultaneously engages with multiple alignment guides and locking surfaces, replacing the need for multiple separate fasteners (bolts in each corner) with one integrated locking component that secures the object at multiple points simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as a locking element, an alignment device, and a retention mechanism all in one component. By rotating the cam, it can lock the object in place by engaging with alignment guides and locking surfaces, while also providing the fastening action that would otherwise require separate fasteners.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners and tools are used for installation and removal, then the retention security is improved, but the installation time and ease of operation worsen due to requiring tools and multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed to be self-servicing in terms of fastening and unfastening operations. The cam can be rotated by hand without requiring external tools, and the alignment guides automatically guide the cam into the correct position during installation. The system uses its own structural elements (alignment guides, locking surfaces) to facilitate the locking action, eliminating the need for separate installation tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism transitions from a static locking position to a dynamic unlocking position through rotation. This dynamic action allows rapid transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling quick installation and removal without the time-consuming process of threading and tightening multiple bolts with tools.
3Ease of operation
If a cam mechanism is used for tool-free fastening, then the ease of operation and installation speed are improved, but the retention strength under severe forces and impacts may deteriorate compared to permanent fastening methods
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism utilizes curved surfaces and rotational motion to create a mechanical advantage that generates high locking forces. The cam's curved profile, when rotated into the locked position, exerts significant force against the locking surfaces and alignment guides, creating a strong retention that can withstand severe forces and impacts despite the simplicity of the hand-operated mechanism.
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
Enables quick, tool-free installation and removal of devices without requiring multiple fasteners, allowing for secure retention in various orientations and easy access, even in challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
a cam mechanism with alignment guides and a pin for secure, tool-free attachment and detachment
Implementation Method 2
the cam may be configured to engage the locking surface of the support shoe and bias at least one of the alignment tabs into engagement with at least one of the alignment guides
Implementation Method 3
The cam may be configured to be retained in the unlocked position by a pin when the pin is in a raised position and engaged with the cam
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining system according to example embodiments of the present invention may include a base plate that includes a cam and alignment guides, where the cam defines both a locked position and an unlocked position, and a support shoe that includes alignment tabs and a locking tab, where the support shoe is configured to be inserted into the alignment guides when the cam member is in the unlocked position. Upon insertion of the support shoe into the alignment guides, the cam may be configured to engage the locking tab of the support shoe and bias at least one of the alignment tabs into engagement with at least one of the alignment guides as the cam advances from the unlocked position to the locked position.