Coaxial Locking Assembly for Secure Positioning in Tight Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for mutual positions between bodies are often bulky and unsuitable for applications with limited space, necessitating a compact and secure locking solution.
Innovation Solution
An assembly comprising an adjustment assembly with an adjustment head and a coaxially positioned locking element, allowing for mutual adjustment and secure locking along a longitudinal axis, using screw thread engagements and compact keys for easy manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms (screws, nuts, pin-slot mechanisms) are used to lock mutual position between primary and secondary bodies, then secure locking is achieved, but the assembly becomes bulky and unsuitable for limited space applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the adjustment head and locking element into a single integrated assembly that fits within the secondary body's adjustment bore. The locking element is positioned coaxially within the adjustment head, merging multiple functions (adjustment and locking) into one compact unit, thereby achieving secure locking without increasing overall assembly volume
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is nested within the adjustment head, which itself is positioned inside the adjustment bore of the secondary body. This nested arrangement allows the locking mechanism to occupy minimal space while maintaining full locking functionality, directly addressing the space constraint problem
2Volume of moving object
If a compact locking mechanism is designed to fit limited space, then volume is reduced, but locking reliability and security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element features a curved locking interface surface that complements the curved adjustment interface surface of the adjustment head. This curved geometry enables effective locking engagement within a compact coaxial arrangement, maintaining locking reliability while minimizing assembly volume
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes thread engagement between the locking element and adjustment head, combining multiple structural elements (threads, interface surfaces, abutting surfaces) into a composite locking system that achieves high reliability within a compact form factor
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
Provides a small and robust locking mechanism suitable for confined spaces, ensuring secure and efficient locking of mutual positions between bodies.
Implementation Method 1
The adjustment head and locking element are mutually moveable along the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for locking a mutual position between a secondary body (3) positioned inside a primary body (2), comprising an adjustment assembly (10) connectable to the primary body (2) and the secondary body (3) for mutual adjustment thereof along a longitudinal axis (A). The adjustment assembly (10) comprises an adjustment head (11) comprising an adjustment interface surface (13) for adjusting the mutual position, and a locking element (14) comprising a locking interface surface (13a). The locking element (14) is positioned coaxially to the adjustment head (11), wherein the adjustment head (11) and locking assembly (14) are mutually moveable along the longitudinal axis (A).