Crossbow Security Unit Automatic Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crossbows lack automatic security activation during bolt loading, leading to potential accidental bolt projection and safety risks, as security devices are not automatically engaged until the string is pulled and hooked by the trigger, which can be easily forgotten by users.
Innovation Solution
A crossbow design featuring a supporting body, a hook unit, and a triggering device with security units that automatically lock during bolt loading and unlock only when the bolt is properly loaded, utilizing a combination of hooks, springs, and security levers to prevent accidental trigger activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a security device is provided on the crossbow, then safety against accidental bolt projection is improved, but the device complexity increases and the security device may not be automatically activated
Solution Approach 1:
The security unit is automatically activated during the bolt loading process itself. The loading handle's movement during normal operation triggers the security unit to engage the blocking element, which then prevents trigger activation. This preliminary action ensures safety is built into the loading sequence without requiring separate manual activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The security function is merged with the existing loading mechanism. The loading handle serves dual purposes: loading the bolt and simultaneously activating the security unit. The blocking element is integrated into the trigger mechanism, combining the security function with the firing mechanism rather than adding a completely separate system.
2Reliability
If the security unit automatically locks during bolt loading, then safety is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The security locking action is merged with the bolt loading motion. As the user naturally pulls the loading handle rearward to load a bolt, this same motion automatically engages the security unit. The user does not perform separate actions for loading and securing; one continuous motion accomplishes both tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The security unit is self-activating through the loading process itself. The loading handle's rearward movement directly drives the cam mechanism that engages the blocking element with the trigger. The system serves itself by using the necessary loading motion to automatically activate the safety feature without requiring additional user input.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the security unit prevents trigger activation during loading, then accidental projection is prevented, but the productivity decreases due to extended loading time
Solution Approach 1:
The security blocking element is engaged during the normal bolt loading sequence itself, not as a separate subsequent step. As the loading handle is pulled rearward and the bolt is inserted, the cam mechanism simultaneously positions the blocking element to prevent trigger activation. The safety action occurs preliminarily within the existing loading time frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The security engagement is merged into the bolt loading motion. The rearward pull of the loading handle that loads the bolt also activates the cam mechanism that engages the blocking element. These two actions—loading the bolt and engaging security—occur simultaneously through one continuous user motion, not as separate sequential steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A crossbow includes a supporting body, a hook unit, a bow and a triggering device. The supporting body includes an elongated portion and a butt detachably connected to the elongated portion. The hook unit is provided on the butt. The bow is provided on the supporting body. The triggering device is located in the elongated portion to control the bow. The triggering device includes a shell, a trigger unit located in the shell, and a security unit movable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The security unit abuts against the trigger unit in the locking position to restrain the trigger unit. The hook unit moves the security unit to the unlocking position when the butt is connected to the elongated portion. The security unit moves to the locking position when the butt is moved from the elongated portion.