Cross-Shape Tilting Bolt Deposit Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deposit lock mechanisms for trolleys are complex to assemble due to the need for multiple springs acting in opposite directions, complicating the mounting process and increasing the size of the mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A compact deposit locking mechanism featuring a tilting bolt in the shape of a cross with support studs and a one-piece flat spring that acts on both the levers and the tilting lock, facilitating assembly and reducing the mechanism's size, allowing it to be housed in a cassette.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple springs are used to act on levers and tilting lock in opposite directions, then the locking mechanism can achieve reliable locking and unlocking, but the assembly complexity increases and the mechanism size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple springs (first spring acting on the tilting lock and second spring acting on the levers) into a single integrated flat spring structure. This flat spring has multiple functional zones that simultaneously provide the necessary forces for both the tilting lock and levers, thereby reducing the number of separate components while maintaining the reliable locking and unlocking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The flat spring is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple roles: it acts as a spring for the tilting lock, a spring for the levers, and provides structural support. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized springs, reducing assembly complexity while preserving the reliability required for secure locking.
2Reliability
If multiple springs are used to act on levers and tilting lock in opposite directions, then the locking mechanism can achieve reliable locking and unlocking, but the mechanism size increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple springs into a single flat spring structure, the overall volume occupied by the spring assembly is significantly reduced. The flat spring is designed to fit within the existing mechanism housing, eliminating the need for separate spring mounting spaces and reducing the total mechanism size while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The flat spring utilizes a two-dimensional planar structure instead of three-dimensional coiled springs. This dimensional change allows the spring to be compressed into a thinner profile, reducing the mechanism's overall volume while still providing the necessary elastic forces for reliable locking and unlocking operations.
3Reliability
If multiple springs are used to act on levers and tilting lock, then the locking mechanism can achieve reliable locking and unlocking, but the mounting operations become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple springs into a single flat spring component simplifies the mounting process by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be installed. The flat spring can be mounted as one piece, eliminating the complex alignment and securing operations required for multiple separate springs, while still providing reliable locking and unlocking forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The flat spring is designed with segmented functional zones (first zone for the tilting lock, second zone for the levers) that are integrated into a single component. This segmentation allows the spring to perform multiple functions while being mounted as one piece, significantly simplifying the manufacturing and assembly operations compared to installing multiple separate springs.
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 solution simplifies the assembly process and reduces the mechanism's size, enabling it to be housed in a compact cassette while effectively locking and unlocking the trolley, with the flat spring providing a brake for the deposit coin and ensuring secure key engagement.
Implementation Method 1
a flat spring comprising on one side two lugs resting on the bearing studs of the transverse bar of the tilting bolt and on the other two lugs each cooperating with one of the two pivoting levers to urge in the direction of one of the on the other the ends of said levers directed towards the tilting lock
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A locking mechanism with a setpoint, of the type with pivoting levers acting on one side in direct contact with the setpoint and on the other on a toggle bolt, one end of which carries a bolt engaging in a keyhole, characterized in that the toggle bolt has the general shape of a cross, the ends of the crossbar (26) of said cross each having a support pad (27, 28) and a flat leaf spring (29-33) being disposed over the levers (14) and the toggle bolt (20-22, 27-28), said spring (29-33) having on one side two tabs (29, 30) resting on the support pads (27, 28) of the crossbar (26) of the toggle bolt and on the other side two tabs (31, 32) each cooperating with one of the two pivoting levers (14) to exert pressure on the ends in the direction of each other said levers directed towards the tilting lock.