Synchronizing Rod Overload Latch for Furniture Motion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing synchronizing devices for movably mounted furniture parts lack effective overload protection, leading to potential damage from excessive torque, which can occur due to incorrect operation or uneven loading.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spring-loaded latching mechanism within an overload protection device, which acts as a resilient sleeve with a radially inward latching nose, connecting and disconnecting the shaft portions automatically when a predetermined torque is exceeded, preventing damage by allowing relative rotary movement and re-engaging once the torque returns within safe limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid connection between shaft portions is used to ensure precise synchronization, then synchronization precision is improved, but the device becomes vulnerable to damage from excessive torque
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between shaft portions is made dynamic through the spring-loaded latching mechanism. Under normal conditions, the latching portion maintains a rigid connection for precise synchronization. When excessive torque occurs, the spring allows the latching portion to disengage, enabling relative movement between shaft portions and preventing damage. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between rigid synchronization and flexible protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latching mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-configured to absorb excessive torque before damage occurs. The spring is designed with specific elastic properties that allow it to yield under overload conditions, cushioning the shock and preventing transmission of damaging forces to the shaft portions and connected components.
2Reliability
If a complex latching mechanism is used to provide reliable overload protection, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is merged with the synchronizing device structure itself. The latching portion is integrated into the shaft or connecting structure, and the spring is positioned within the existing mechanical assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate, complex protection devices while maintaining reliable overload protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is designed to be self-activating and self-resetting. When excessive torque occurs, the spring automatically pushes the latching portion out of engagement without external intervention. After the overload condition is removed, the spring automatically returns the latching portion to its engaged position, restoring synchronization without manual resetting. This self-service capability simplifies the overall system while ensuring reliable protection.
3Strength
If traditional assembly methods are used for the latching mechanism, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is segmented into modular components: the latching portion, the spring, and the engagement features on the shaft portions. These segmented components can be independently manufactured and then quickly assembled together through simple insertion or snap-fit operations, reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength through proper design of the engagement interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching portion is designed as a simple, easily replaceable component that can be manufactured cost-effectively. If the latching mechanism fails or becomes worn, the entire latching portion can be quickly replaced without affecting other components. This approach reduces assembly time for maintenance and allows for simple, cost-effective manufacturing while maintaining sufficient connection strength during the component's service life.
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 solution effectively prevents damage to furniture parts by enabling automatic disengagement and re-engagement of the synchronizing device under excessive torque conditions, ensuring continuous operation and reducing assembly time through tool-free assembly and use of plastic components.
Implementation Method 1
the overload protection device has at least one radially or axially spring-loaded latching portion which engages into at least one of the two shaft portions
Implementation Method 2
the overload protection device can be in the form of a resilient sleeve and have at least one radially inwardly directed latching nose
Data Source
AI summary
A synchronizing device for a movably mounted furniture part synchronizes a movement between at least two adjusting devices via a synchronizing rod. The synchronizing rod has at least two sub-shafts between which an overload protection device is arranged, and the overload protection device can release a relative rotational movement between the two sub-shafts when a specified holding torque between the two sub-shafts is exceeded.