Dual Directional Clutch for Key-Driven Locking Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices require significant force to operate when both key-driven and motor-driven mechanisms are engaged, and they lack a reliable mechanism for operation when the motor-driven assembly is not functional.
Innovation Solution
A locking device incorporating a dual directional clutch that allows the motor-driven assembly to selectively decouple from the lock rod when the key-driven actuator is actuated, enabling operation without displacing motor-driven assembly components, even when the motor-driven assembly is not operational.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If both key-driven actuator and motor-driven assembly are engaged simultaneously, then the locking device can operate with motor assistance, but significant force is required to operate the locking device
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism dynamically engages or disengages the motor-driven assembly based on operational needs. When the key-driven actuator is actuated, the clutch disengages to allow manual operation without requiring force against the motor assembly. When motor operation is needed, the clutch engages to connect the motor-driven assembly to the lock rod, providing motor assistance while reducing the force required from the user.
2Reliability
If the motor-driven assembly is engaged during key-driven operation, then the locking mechanism is redundant, but the user must displace motor-driven assembly components requiring greater application of force
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism dynamically engages or disengages the motor-driven assembly based on operational needs. When the key-driven actuator is actuated, the clutch disengages to allow manual operation without requiring force against the motor assembly. When motor operation is needed, the clutch engages to connect the motor-driven assembly to the lock rod, providing motor assistance while reducing the force required from the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the motor-driven assembly is not operational, then the key-driven actuator can still operate the locking device, but the mechanism for ensuring this separation must be added to the device
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism serves as an intermediary between the key-driven actuator and the motor-driven assembly. It automatically separates the two systems when the key-driven actuator is engaged, allowing manual operation without requiring force against the motor assembly. The clutch includes a pawl that engages with a cam surface on the motor-driven assembly, providing a reliable mechanical separation mechanism that ensures the key-driven actuator can operate independently when the motor is non-operational.
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
This solution reduces the force required for locking and unlocking by allowing key-driven operation without engaging motor-driven assembly components, ensuring functionality even when the motor-driven assembly is non-operational.
Implementation Method 1
The clutch includes a first pawl configured to be actuated by a first cam surface on the gear, when the gear rotates in a first direction, so as to engage the first set of gear teeth of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
The clutch additionally includes a second pawl configured to be actuated by a second cam surface on the gear, when the gear rotates in a second direction, so as to engage the first set of gear teeth of the shaft
Implementation Method 3
The first pawl is coupled to a first pawl spring and the second pawl is coupled to a second pawl spring. The first and second pawls are configured to disengage with the shaft when the rotatable screw is stationary by way of the first and second pawl springs
Implementation Method 4
The motor-driven assembly includes a motor and a rotatable screw coupled to the motor
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device includes a locking arm movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking device additionally includes a shaft that engages the locking arm so as to move the locking arm between the locked and the unlocked position. The locking device further includes a key-driven actuator configured to rotate the shaft. The locking device also includes a motor-driven assembly which engages and rotates the shaft. The motor-driven assembly includes a motor, a rotatable screw, and a gear. The motor-driven assembly also includes a clutch which engages the shaft upon rotation of the gear. The clutch includes a first pawl configured to be actuated when the gear rotates in a first direction and a second pawl configured to be actuated when the gear rotates in a second direction, where the first and second pawls are configured to disengage with the shaft when the rotatable screw is stationary.