Compact Locking Structure for Multi-Functional Vegetable Cutter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vegetable cutters with locking mechanisms require a handle with a grip cavity, increasing their longitudinal dimension, necessitating a more compact locking structure for convenient storage and operation.
Innovation Solution
A locking structure for a multi-functional vegetable cutter featuring a sliding bracket with a chute, a locking block, and a cam mechanism that allows for compact design without relying on a hollow cavity, utilizing a reset mechanism and cam edges to transition between locked and unlocked states, and a conversion handle for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a handle with a grip cavity is used for locking, then the locking function is achieved, but the longitudinal dimension of the vegetable cutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a longitudinal grip cavity design to a lateral locking block design. The locking block extends horizontally from the sliding bracket to engage with the housing, changing the locking action from a longitudinal handle grip to a lateral extension and engagement mechanism. This dimensional shift eliminates the need for a deep grip cavity while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a sliding bracket for movement, a locking block for engagement, and a cam for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring a large integrated grip cavity, thereby reducing the overall longitudinal dimension while maintaining locking reliability.
2Volume of moving object
If a locking block with cam mechanism is used, then the space occupied is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it actuates the locking block for locking/unlocking, provides mechanical advantage for easy operation, and guides the locking block's movement path. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby minimizing space occupation while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The reset mechanism automatically returns the locking block to its initial position after locking/unlocking action, eliminating the need for manual resetting. The cam's rotational geometry self-guides the locking block through its movement cycle, reducing the need for additional guiding components and simplifying the overall structure despite the compact space constraints.
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 enables secure locking and unlocking of the sliding bracket on the housing, reducing the overall dimension of the cutter, providing a simple, convenient, and space-efficient design for storage and use.
Implementation Method 1
a rear side of the locking block is provided with a cam hinged on the sliding bracket, the cam is in abutting connection with a rear end face of the locking block, when rotating, the cam drives the locking block to slide forward and lock the sliding bracket
Implementation Method 2
the locking block is connected to a reset mechanism driving the locking block to slide backward
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a locking structure of a multi-functional vegetable cutter including a housing and a sliding bracket. The sliding bracket is slidably disposed in the housing, an upper end of the sliding bracket is provided with a chute with an opening on a front side, a locking block extendable from the opening on the front side is slidably disposed in the chute, a rear side of the locking block is provided with a cam hinged on the sliding bracket, the cam is in abutting connection with a rear end face of the locking block, when rotating, the cam drives the locking block to slide forward and lock the sliding bracket, and the locking block is connected to a reset mechanism driving the locking block to slide backward.