Rotating Locking Assembly for Camera Slider Rapid Re-Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sliding apparatuses for photographic equipment lack a suitable locking mechanism for multiple instances, as the conventional locking braking screw is not efficient for repeated locking and unlocking operations.

Innovation Solution

An electrically controlled sliding apparatus with a locking assembly featuring a rotating locking fitting that includes a main shaft with non-circular and circular portions, allowing it to lock or unlock the driven member by rotating relative to the fixed base, utilizing an elastic member and a locking member to engage or disengage with the driven member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking braking screw is used to lock the sliding block on the guiding rail, then the sliding block can be locked securely, but the locking mechanism is not suitable for repeated locking and unlocking operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidrepeated locking and unlocking operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking fitting is designed to rotate relative to the fixed base, transforming the static screw mechanism into a dynamic rotating mechanism. This allows the locking member to be engaged or disengaged from the driven member through rotation, enabling rapid repeated locking and unlocking operations while maintaining secure locking when engaged

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a locking braking screw is used to lock the sliding block, then the sliding block can be secured on the guiding rail, but the operation becomes time-consuming and not rapid

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoidlocking and unlocking time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The rotating locking fitting with engaging portions that can be quickly engaged or disengaged from the driven member through rotation significantly reduces the time required for locking and unlocking operations compared to threading a screw, while maintaining reliable locking when engaged

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking member is pre-positioned on the main shaft with engaging portions ready to engage with the driven member. When the locking fitting rotates into position, the locking action occurs immediately without requiring additional adjustment or tightening time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 locking assembly allows for rapid and convenient locking or unlocking of the sliding block on the guiding rail, enhancing operational simplicity and effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member abutting between the body and the fixed base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11868031B2Electrically controlled sliding apparatus for photographic equipment and locking assembly thereof
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 ZHONGSHAN DASHAN PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIP
  • US11868031B2 patent drawing
  • US11868031B2 patent drawing
  • US11868031B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to an electrically controlled sliding apparatus for photographic equipment and a locking assembly thereof. The locking assembly for the electrically controlled sliding apparatus includes a fixed base mounted on the electrically controlled sliding apparatus and a locking fitting mounted on the fixed base. A driven member of the electrically controlled sliding apparatus is mounted within the fixed base. The locking fitting is capable of rotating relative to the fixed base after being pressed against the fixed base, so as to lock or unlock the driven member. The locking assembly for the electrically controlled sliding apparatus provided by the present disclosure is convenient to operate and simple in structure, and is capable of achieving that the sliding block is rapidly locked or unlocked on the guiding rail.