Folding locking mechanism used for step stool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding stools lack a reliable locking mechanism for the stool legs, leading to instability and poor safety when folded, as the legs cannot be securely locked in position after rotation.
Innovation Solution
A folding locking mechanism for a step stool that includes a first connecting piece with a limiting hole, a pin movable in the axial direction, an elastic piece to apply force towards the limiting hole, and a cross stopper with stop pieces, allowing the pin to lock the stool legs radially, along with a spanner and handle for ease of operation and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the stool legs are hinged to the stool plate to enable folding, then the stool can be folded into a compact form, but the stool legs cannot be locked in position and the structure becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a pin that can move between two positions: engaged with the limiting hole to lock the stool leg in place, and disengaged to allow folding. This dynamic element enables the structure to switch between locked (stable) and unlocked (foldable) states, resolving the contradiction between stability and foldability
Solution Approach 2:
The pin acts as an intermediary element between the stool leg and the limiting hole. When the pin is inserted into the limiting hole, it mediates the connection to lock the stool leg at a fixed angle. The elastic piece further mediates by applying force to keep the pin engaged, ensuring reliable locking while maintaining the ability to fold when needed
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the stool legs, then the safety and stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the pin for locking/unlocking, the limiting hole for positioning, and the elastic piece for applying locking force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply, avoiding the need for a complex integrated mechanism while achieving reliable safety
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic piece provides self-service by automatically applying force to the pin to maintain engagement with the limiting hole. This self-actuating feature ensures the locking mechanism remains engaged without requiring continuous external input or complex control systems, thereby improving safety while minimizing added complexity
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 mechanism securely locks the stool legs when unfolded or folded, enhancing safety and convenience, while allowing the stool to be compactly folded for easy transport.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic piece, wherein the elastic piece is connected to the pin and applies a force towards the limiting hole to the pin
Data Source
AI summary
A folding locking mechanism used for a step stool is disclosed. The step stool includes a stool plate, stool legs rotatably arranged on the stool plate and a locking mechanism used for locking the stool legs. The locking mechanism includes a first connecting piece and a pin, wherein the first connecting piece is fixedly connected with the stool plate and is provided with a limiting hole allowing the pin to fall therein, and the pin is limited in the radial direction and is movable in the axial direction, relative to the stool legs.