Double Lock Connector for Archery Stabilizer Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stabilizer connectors for archery bows fail to securely maintain the stabilizer's angular position due to vibrations, leading to loosening and reduced effectiveness, which is frustrating and distracting for archers.
Innovation Solution
A dual connector system featuring a base with tapered end portions and a fitting with a chamber, utilizing a first locking assembly with a screw and a second locking assembly with a locking pin and screw to provide a double-lock connection, ensuring the stabilizer remains securely positioned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single locking assembly is used to connect the stabilizer to the bow, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of maintaining the stabilizer's angular position deteriorates due to vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two independent locking assemblies: a first locking assembly with a screw that clamps the fitting onto the tapered base, and a second locking assembly with a locking pin and screw that provides additional securing. This segmentation allows each locking mechanism to perform its specific function, with the first locking assembly providing primary clamping force and the second locking assembly preventing rotational loosening, thereby improving overall reliability without requiring an overly complex integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is designed with a tapered interior surface that preliminarily secures the stabilizer base through friction and geometric constraint before the locking assemblies are fully engaged. This preliminary action provides initial stability against vibrations, allowing the locking assemblies to then secure the position without requiring immediate high clamping force, thus improving reliability while maintaining reasonable device complexity
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent stabilizer loosening, then the reliability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple locking steps
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin is designed to be movable between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing the user to quickly switch between locked and unlocked states. The pin can be manually positioned to engage with the base feature or disengage for removal, providing dynamic control over the connection state. This dynamic design maintains high connection security when locked while enabling rapid operation when adjustment or removal is needed
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered geometry of the base and fitting creates a self-aligning and self-seating mechanism that automatically positions components correctly during assembly, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment. The friction fit provided by the tapered surfaces also provides automatic preliminary securing, reducing the operational effort required for the locking assemblies and improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability
3Ease of manufacture
If the connector design is simplified for ease of manufacture, then the ease of manufacture improves, but the strength of the connection deteriorates under vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into modular components (base, fitting, screw, locking pin) that can be manufactured independently using standard machining processes. Each component has simple geometric features that are easy to manufacture: the tapered base can be turned on a lathe, the fitting can be milled with standard features, and the locking pin is a simple cylindrical element. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured with standard tolerances and processes while the assembled combination provides the required connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes composite construction combining different material properties: the metal components provide structural strength and rigidity, while the tapered geometric design provides friction-based securing. The combination of mechanical interlocking (tapered fit) and friction (surface contact) creates a composite locking mechanism that achieves high connection strength through simple metal components manufactured with conventional processes
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 dual locking system effectively prevents the stabilizer from shifting, providing a stronger and more reliable connection that maintains the preferred angular position, enhancing the archer's accuracy and reducing the need for frequent adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
the locking assembly includes a screw which passes through an opening in the fitting and into the threaded opening of the tapered end of the base. Tightening of the screw clamps the fitting onto the base tapered end portion.
Implementation Method 2
The locking pin first portion is pressed into the annular recess when the second screw is rotated in the locking direction.
Implementation Method 3
A base is provided having a tapered end portion... A fitting is also provided which includes a chamber configured to receive the base tapered end portion... Tightening of the screw clamps the fitting onto the base tapered end portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A double locking connector includes a base having a tapered end portion and a fitting having a chamber configured to receive the tapered end portion. Two independent locking assemblies are provided to connect the fitting with the base tapered portion to provide a secure connection. The first locking assembly includes a screw which passes through an opening in the fitting for connection with a threaded opening in the tapered portion. The second locking assembly includes a locking pin arranged in a channel in the fitting and a screw which is operable to draw the locking pin against a portion of the tapered portion. The tapered portion preferably includes three symmetrical contact surfaces which engage an inner surface of the fitting chamber to evenly distribute clamping forces from the fitting onto the tapered portion when the first locking assembly is operated.