Foldable Bracket Self-Locking Mechanism for One-Handed Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable brackets require two-handed operation to change configurations and may pose safety risks due to awkward positioning, especially when users need to carry items or have limited dexterity.
Innovation Solution
A foldable bracket design that self-locks in an opened position and self-unlocks for single-handed operation, utilizing a second pin sliding in a slot past a release lever and a biasing member to allow movement to a folded position through two stages, enabling single-handed transition between open and folded states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a release lever mechanism is used to lock and unlock the bracket, then the bracket can be retained in an opened position, but both hands are required to operate the release lever
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket mechanism automatically locks and unlocks without requiring manual intervention. The first pin and second pin work together with the release lever to self-lock in the opened position and self-unlock when returning to folded position, eliminating the need for users to manually operate a release lever with both hands
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static locked position to a dynamic unlocking process. The first pin slides along the slot in the release lever during the transition, enabling the system to automatically change states based on the bracket's movement rather than requiring manual actuation
2Reliability
If the release lever is positioned for secure locking, then the bracket can be reliably retained, but the user must reach into awkward or dangerous positions to access it
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic locking and unlocking mechanism eliminates the need for users to reach into awkward or dangerous positions to manually operate a release lever. The system self-actuates based on the bracket's movement, removing the safety hazard entirely
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual operation of the release lever is required, then the bracket configuration can be changed, but it becomes impossible when both hands are occupied or unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket automatically changes configuration from opened to folded position without requiring any manual input. The mechanism detects and responds to the bracket's movement, enabling users to operate it even when both hands are occupied or unavailable
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 safe and convenient single-handed operation of foldable brackets, addressing the limitations of conventional designs by allowing users to easily switch between open and folded positions without the need for both hands.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member adapted to apply a biasing force to the release lever to bias the release lever to the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable bracket moveable between opened and folded positions. The foldable bracket including first and second bracket arms rotatably coupled to each other, where the second bracket arm includes a second bracket arm slot, a bracket arm linking member rotatably coupled to the first bracket arm and slidably coupled to the second bracket arm, first and second pins slidably disposed in the second bracket arm slot, where the second pin slidably couples the bracket arm linking member to the second bracket arm, a pin connecting member having an aperture and a pin connecting member slot, where the second pin is disposed in the aperture and the first pin is slidably disposed in the pin connecting member slot, and a release lever rotatably coupled to the second bracket arm and adapted to rotate between first and second positions.