Rotating Locking Bolt Chain Link Connector With Self-Locking Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chain locks for connecting two chains are complex, require multiple parts, and are costly due to the need for additional securing elements to prevent loosening and disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A chain lock design featuring elastic chain shackles and a locking bolt that rotates to secure the shackles, utilizing geometric shapes to create resistance and self-locking, reducing the number of parts needed and eliminating the need for additional securing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional chain locks use multiple securing elements to prevent loosening and disengagement, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function and securing function are merged into a single integrated locking bolt. The bolt simultaneously performs the locking action and prevents disengagement through its geometric design, eliminating the need for separate securing elements and reducing part count while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bolt is designed with self-locking geometric features that automatically prevent loosening and disengagement without requiring additional securing elements. The interference fit and angular geometry create inherent resistance to loosening forces, making the system self-sufficient
2Reliability
If traditional chain locks use multiple securing elements, then the prevention of loosening is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (locking and securing) are combined into a single locking bolt component, reducing the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This integration directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the prevention of loosening through the bolt's geometric design
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bolt is designed as a simple, cost-effective component with geometric features that provide secure locking without requiring expensive additional securing elements. The design prioritizes cost-efficiency while achieving the necessary reliability
3Reliability
If the locking bolt uses geometric shapes to create resistance, then the self-locking capability is improved, but the insertion complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bolt has different geometric characteristics at different locations: the insertion end has a smaller diameter or chamfered surface for easy insertion, while the locking portion has larger angular surfaces that create interference fit and self-locking. This local variation in geometry enables both easy insertion and secure self-locking
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 design simplifies assembly, reduces costs by minimizing parts, and ensures secure connection through geometric shape-based resistance, providing a self-locking mechanism that prevents loosening without additional securing elements.
Implementation Method 1
the chain loops are elastically designed, and wherein the locking bolt and/or the recesses are shaped such that, when the locking bolt is moved from the first position to the second position, a resistance occurs which consists of an interference between the recesses and the locking bolt.and which must be overcome to move the chain into the second position by briefly deflecting the chain arms elastically.
Data Source
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Figure 9~11
AI summary
The invention relates to a chain lock (10) for connecting two chains formed from links, comprising a first chain loop (12), a second chain loop (14), and a locking bolt (16) that releasably connects the chain loops (12, 14) to one another, wherein each chain loop (12, 14) has a recess (28) which, in the connected state of the chain loops (12, 14), forms a receiving opening (32) into which the locking bolt (16) can be inserted, wherein the locking bolt (16) can be inserted into the receiving opening (32) in a first position and can be moved into a second position by rotation about its longitudinal axis (L) to secure the two chain loops (12, 14) against loosening, and wherein the locking bolt (16) and/or the recesses (28) are shaped such that when the locking bolt (16) is moved from the first position into In the second position, resistance occurs.which consists of an excess between the recesses (28) and the locking bolt (16), and which must be overcome to move into the second position.