Multi-Boss Folding Joint Locking With Screw-Driven Clamping Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding joints for bicycles require complex structures and high manufacturing costs due to the need for thick locking devices that ensure rigidity and convenient operation, while also being subjected to significant forces during use.
Innovation Solution
A folding joint design featuring two connecting plates with bosses and movable clamping blocks driven by a screw rod with left and right threads, allowing for simple and reliable locking and unlocking by controlling the clamping block's short-distance linear movement, thereby reducing the complexity and cost of the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking device is designed thicker with a complicated structure to ensure sufficient rigidity, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into multiple clamping blocks (at least two) that respectively clamp different bosses on the connecting plates. Each clamping block independently performs locking function, distributing the locking force and improving reliability without requiring each individual component to be overly thick or complex
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple clamping blocks are integrated into a single locking mechanism system controlled by one screw rod. The screw rod simultaneously drives all clamping blocks to engage or disengage, merging multiple locking actions into one unified operation, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If the locking device is designed thicker with a complicated structure to ensure sufficient rigidity, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking actions are combined into a single screw rod operation. Rotating the screw rod once simultaneously drives all clamping blocks to engage or disengage, making the opening and closing operation quick and convenient while maintaining reliable locking through multiple clamping points
Solution Approach 2:
The screw rod with left and right threads automatically drives the clamping blocks in the correct direction based on its rotation direction. The threaded mechanism provides self-directional control, eliminating the need for complex control systems and simplifying user operation
3Ease of operation
If the screw rod drives the clamping block for short-distance linear movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the clamping force may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The total clamping force requirement is segmented and distributed across multiple clamping blocks (at least two). Each block applies force to different bosses on the connecting plates, so the individual short-distance movement of each block is sufficient to generate adequate clamping force at its specific location, and the combined effect provides overall secure locking
Solution Approach 2:
Each clamping block is positioned to clamp a specific boss on the connecting plates, providing localized clamping force where needed. The boss structures on the connecting plates are designed with specific geometries (flanges) that concentrate the clamping force from the short-distance moving clamping blocks, ensuring sufficient local holding power
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 design provides a reliable locking mechanism that is quick and convenient to operate, ensuring the folding joint's stability and ease of use while minimizing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping block is respectively driven by left and right threads on a screw rod, so that the concave edge of the groove of the clamping block is in contact with or moves away from the flange of the boss of the connecting plate
Data Source
AI summary
A folding joint, the folding joint having two connecting plates, which are respectively connected to a rod member and are hinged on one side, wherein folding surfaces of the two connecting plates each have two or more bosses; each of the bosses of one of the connecting plates is provided with a clamping block, which is driven by a screw rod and has a groove at one side; concave edges of the groove on one side of the clamping block can simultaneously come into contact with flanges of the bosses of each of the connecting plates when the two connecting plates are folded close to each other; and the connecting plates folded close to each other are clamped and fastened.