Eye Bolt Locking Member for Tool-Free Load Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eye bolts either cannot be aligned with the direction of load, leading to potential overloading or loosening, or require additional tools for installation and removal, which can be lost or cause issues in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
An eye bolt design with a locking member attached radially to the lifting eye, allowing for rotational blocking without an external tool, enabling space-saving and secure operation in confined spaces by using rockers or movable parts that can be pretensioned for positive locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate tool is used to turn the screw during installation or removal, then the supporting bolt can be screwed in or out, but the tool must be stored separately and may be lost or mislaid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tool function with the lifting eye by integrating a locking member that serves both as a structural component of the lifting eye and as a tool for turning the supporting bolt. The locking member is rotatably connected to the lifting eye and can engage with the bolt head, eliminating the need for a separate tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural component of the lifting eye, provides a tool for turning the supporting bolt during installation and removal, and can lock the bolt in position. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tools and improves reliability.
2Reliability
If the tool is coupled with the lifting eye to introduce screwing movement, then tool storage is simplified, but the tool protrudes significantly onto the outside and may catch on items in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be rotatable relative to the lifting eye, allowing it to move between a working position where it engages with the bolt head and a retracted position where it does not protrude. This dynamic configuration enables operation in confined spaces while maintaining tool retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is arranged radially adjacent to the bolt head and can rotate within the plane of the lifting eye, utilizing radial space rather than protruding axially. This dimensional arrangement minimizes protrusion and allows rotation in confined spaces.
3Reliability
If the locking member is designed to be completely closed, then unintentional separation is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into a body portion and a locking portion, with the locking portion featuring engagement elements that can interact with the lifting eye structure. This segmentation allows for a simpler overall design while maintaining reliability through specific engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to automatically engage and disengage from the lifting eye through its rotational movement, without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex fastening systems. The geometry of the locking member and lifting eye相互配合 to provide self-retention.
Data Source
AI summary
An eye bolt, comprising a lifting eye and a supporting bolt, wherein the supporting bolt sits, rotatable, in an insertion opening of the lifting eye and comprises, a threaded shaft and a bolt head. The supporting bolt protrudes radially from the lifting eye and is supported by an underside of the lifting eye, on a bearing surface formed on the lifting eye and running around the insertion opening. The eye bolt further comprises at least one locking member which can be brought into engagement with the bolt head and by means of which, in a locking position of same, the bolt head can be rotationally blocked vis-à-vis the lifting eye. The at least one locking member is further attached to the lifting eye radially next to the bolt head and is secured there, wherein the at least one locking member can be brought into a starting position, in which it is not engaged with the bolt head, and also into the locking position rotationally blocking the supporting bolt relative to the lifting eye.