Grooved Locking Plate Torque Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices, such as those using locking pins or cam surfaces, are limited in their ability to withstand torque and often require welding for increased security, which makes them irreversible, and can be awkward to orient correctly for proper engagement.
Innovation Solution
A locking device featuring a grooved locking plate that engages with a grooved surface on another component, using fixing members to secure the plates together, allowing for higher torque resistance and easier orientation with fewer rotational adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If locking pins are used to prevent rotation, then the locking device can be easily manufactured and installed, but the torque resistance is limited to approximately 150 lb.f.ft (200 Nm)
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into two main segments: a locking plate that engages with the component and a separate grooved surface on the body. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the locking plate can be made with precise grooves while the body receives the grooved surface, enabling higher torque resistance without overly complicating the manufacturing of either component alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a simple pin-based locking mechanism to a surface-based grooved engagement system. Instead of relying on the limited contact area of pins, the grooved surfaces provide extensive contact area across multiple dimensions, dramatically increasing torque resistance while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard machining operations.
2Strength
If welding is used to secure the locking plate, then torque resistance exceeds 500 lb.f.ft (680 Nm), but the locking becomes irreversible and future removal is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The grooved surfaces are pre-formed on both the locking plate and the body before assembly. This preliminary action allows the components to be precisely engineered for high torque resistance while maintaining their original material properties and structural integrity, enabling future removal without the destructive effects of welding while still achieving the required strength.
3Ease of operation
If locking pins are used, then the device can prevent rotation, but the bayonet connection must be oriented in a particular manner for proper engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The grooved surface design provides universal engagement capability. The circumferential grooves on the body can engage with corresponding grooves on the locking plate regardless of the specific rotational orientation, making the locking device orientation-flexible while simplifying the alignment requirements compared to pin-based systems that require precise angular positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device is disclosed for preventing rotation of one component relative to another component to which it is connected. The locking device comprises a locking plate having a component engaging portion to engage one component, A surface of the locking plate is grooved to engage with a grooved surface carried by the other component. One or more fixing holes are provided for one or more fixing members to be passed through, to force the grooved surface of the locking plate into engagement with the grooved surface carried by the other component.