Drill Stand Column End Locking Assembly for Safe Feed Unit Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drill stands face challenges in efficiently and safely assembling, using, and disassembling the drill column and feed units, particularly for large holes, with a need for improved locking mechanisms that simplify angle configuration and prevent accidental feed unit traversal.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a locking bolt and frame that engages angled surfaces on gripping members, and a drill column end section assembly with a releasable stopping element, allowing easy attachment and removal of the feed unit while ensuring safety and preventing unintended movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a locking mechanism with angled surfaces and gripping members is used, then the ease of operation for locking and unlocking is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking bolt for securing, gripping members for engagement, and angled surfaces for mechanical advantage. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The angled surfaces act as intermediaries between the locking bolt and the gripping members, translating the linear motion of the bolt into the gripping action of the members. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the operation by providing mechanical advantage without requiring complex linkage systems.
2Reliability
If a stopping element is added to prevent feed unit traversal, then the reliability and safety are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stopping element is designed to be automatically actuated by the feed unit itself during normal operation. When the feed unit reaches the end of the column, it naturally engages the stopping element, which then locks into position through its own mechanical design, eliminating the need for separate control systems or additional actuators.
3Ease of operation
If the stopping element is made releasable rather than permanently locked, then the ease of operation for feed unit removal is improved, but the reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stopping element transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic releasable state based on operational needs. During normal operation, it maintains a locked position to prevent accidental traversal. When feed unit removal is required, the system can easily transition to an unlocked state, providing the necessary dynamic adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4~5b
AI summary
A locking mechanism (900) for locking an angle adjustment arrangement (40) of a drill stand (600) at a fixed angle (B), the locking mechanism comprising a locking bolt (41) and a frame (920) configured to slidably hold first and second gripping members (91 0a, 910b), each gripping member comprising an angled surface (940) configured to engage a corresponding angled surface of the frame (920), whereby the gripping members are arranged to grip around a respective protrusion or lath (930a, 930b) arranged longitudinally on the drill stand (600) when pushed against the angled surface of the frame (920) by the locking bolt (41).