Detachable Connector With Pivoting Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems require complex manual operations to lock and unlock, necessitating additional mechanisms and compromising worker posture and workstation space, especially when supporting multiple types of workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a first connector body with an attachment hole and a second connector body featuring a shaft with a keyway, where the engagement is facilitated by a pivoting member and elastic return mechanism, allowing easy locking and unlocking through rotational motion of the second connector body relative to the first, eliminating the need for additional mechanisms and enabling one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hooks are fitted into grooves by pressing and swinging the lever member, then the exclusive unit is locked in the general-purpose unit, but the worker cannot work in a stable posture as they need to hold the exclusive unit with one hand and press the lever member with the other
Solution Approach 1:
The lever member is designed to automatically engage with the hole in the exclusive unit when inserted into the attachment hole. The elastic member automatically pushes the lever member to swing and lock the exclusive unit without requiring manual operation, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for workers to manually press and swing the lever
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of pressing and swinging the lever member is replaced by an automatic mechanical system where the elastic member provides the forcing power to swing the lever member automatically. This substitution eliminates the need for manual two-handed operation while maintaining reliable locking
2Extent of automation
If additional mechanisms are added to enable automatic assembly, then the locking process becomes automated, but the cost increases and the workstation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The forcing power mechanism and the locking mechanism are merged into a single integrated lever member. The lever member simultaneously serves as both the locking element and the actuator, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms. The elastic member integrated within the lever member provides automatic operation without requiring additional external mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The lever member performs multiple functions: it acts as a locking element, an actuator, and a guide for the shaft portion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity while achieving automated locking
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of supporting jigs are prepared for different workpieces, then each workpiece type can be properly supported, but the complexity of preparation and detachment increases when changing workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment hole is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate shaft portions of different dimensions through the same locking mechanism. The lever member and elastic member system works universally for different workpiece types, allowing a single general-purpose unit to support multiple exclusive units without requiring separate locking mechanisms for each workpiece type
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting system is segmented into a general-purpose base unit and detachable exclusive units for different workpieces. This segmentation allows the exclusive units to be independently attached and detached from the universal base, enabling quick changes between different workpiece types without reconfiguring the entire system
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
Enables stable worker posture during operation, reduces workstation complexity, and facilitates automation with minimal additional mechanisms, as the second connector body can be locked and unlocked by simple rotation, supporting various workpieces with different shapes and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member for returning the pivoting member that has pivoted to an original position
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a first connector body with an attachment hole and a second connector body provided with a shaft portion. A keyway is formed in a sidewall of the shaft portion. Moreover, the first connector body includes a pivoting member pivoting by being pressed by the shaft portion rotating inside the attachment hole and an elastic member for returning the pivoting member that has pivoted to an original position. The pivoting member is provided with an engaging portion engaging with the keyway.