Gaming-Table Hinge Locking Mechanism for Low-Force Safe Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional recreational basketball games require substantial floor space and existing quick-locking mechanisms are not optimized for user interaction, often requiring multiple components and high force operations, posing safety concerns, especially for single users and children.
Innovation Solution
A gaming-table support locking apparatus featuring a self-contained mechanism with a first hinge bar, second hinge bar, and tab connector, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly with visual identification of the locked or unlocked state, requiring minimal force and reducing the risk of injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional quick-locking mechanisms (snap clamps, spring-loaded devices) are used to secure structural components, then assembly and disassembly efficiency is improved, but the mechanism requires multiple components and high force operations which pose safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The cam member integrates the locking engagement, force application, and visual indication functions that were previously distributed across multiple components (snap clamps, springs, separate indicators). This single cam member replaces complex multi-component quick-locking mechanisms while maintaining assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the locking engagement through cam surface interaction, applies force to secure components, provides visual indication of locked/unlocked state through its position, and enables easy release through rotational movement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function.
2Strength
If metal-on-metal quick-lock mechanisms are used for durability, then strength and reliability are improved, but high spring forces are required which can cause pinch points and injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces high-force spring-loaded mechanical systems with a low-force cam-based rotational system. Instead of using springs that require high compression forces, the cam member uses geometric leverage and rotational movement to achieve secure locking with minimal user force, eliminating pinch points associated with spring plungers.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the force parameter from high-force spring compression to low-force cam rotation. The cam mechanism transforms a small rotational input force into a large locking force through its geometric profile, maintaining strength and durability while reducing the force the user must apply to a safe level.
3Ease of operation
If visual confirmation of locked/unlocked state is added to the mechanism, then user safety and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member provides self-indicating functionality through its own position. The locked and unlocked states are visually indicated by the cam member's orientation and position relative to visible features, eliminating the need for separate indicators, lights, or additional components. The mechanism serves its own indication function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual differentiation through color or positional appearance of the cam member to indicate locked versus unlocked states. The cam member's orientation changes provide a clear visual signal to users, and this can be enhanced with color coding or contrasting features on the cam member itself.
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 efficient and safe assembly and disassembly of basketball game apparatus into a flat profile for storage, minimizing the risk of injury and optimizing user interaction with a secure, easy-to-use locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
A cam member may be rotatably connected to the second hinge bar at the window. The cam member may include an cam surface configured to contact the locking portion. Rotating the cam member about the pivot may translate the locking portion away from the tab notch.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a gaming-table support locking apparatus including a first hinge bar, a second hinge bar, and a tab connector. The first hinge bar is connected to a first bar of a gaming-table and includes a tab notch. The second hinge bar is connected to a second bar of a gaming-table, is rotatably connected to the first hinge bar, and includes a window. The tab connector includes a base, a locking section, and a release section. The base is configured to connect to the second hinge bar at the window. The locking section extends through the window for engaging the tab notch to form a secure connection. The release section, connected to the locking section, extends through the window for receiving a force from a user. The release section may be depressed toward the base, causing the locking section to disengage from the tab notch.