Heavy-Load Coupling With Locking-Pin-Driven Passive Latches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling systems for lifting heavy loads are bulky due to the presence of hydraulic actuators, leading to large dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system with a locking pin and latches that move from retracted to extended positions via a single locking pin, allowing a compact design, where the latches hook behind a rim to lock the male and female parts, and the locking pin supports the latches to prevent return to retracted positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic actuators are used to actively move the latches for locking and unlocking, then the locking mechanism is reliable, but the dimensions of the male part become relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the hydraulic actuators from the male part entirely. Instead, the latches are passively moved by the interaction between the locking pin and the latches themselves during the locking and unlocking processes, extracting the bulky actuation mechanism while maintaining the core locking function
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin and latches are designed to move each other passively through their geometric interaction. When the locking pin is inserted, its tapered surface automatically pushes the latches outward against the rim. During unlocking, the latches tilt inward passively as the locking pin is withdrawn, allowing the system to self-actuate without external hydraulic power
2Reliability
If multiple latches are distributed around the locking pin for secure locking, then the locking security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the functions of multiple latches and a single locking pin into one integrated mechanism. The locking pin serves as both the locking element and the actuator for all latches simultaneously, merging what would traditionally require separate actuation systems into a unified passive mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin performs multiple functions: it provides the locking surface for the latches, acts as the actuator to move all latches outward during locking, and serves as the reference geometry that enables passive latch retraction during unlocking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system for lifting a heavy load comprises a male part lockable to a female. The male part has a frame, a locking pin longitudinally movable with respect to the frame in a locking direction and a plurality of latches, which are movably connected to the frame and arranged around the longitudinal axis of the locking pin. An outer side of the locking pin and inner sides of the latches cooperate with each other such that upon moving the locking pin in the locking direction along the inner sides of the latches, the locking pin pushes the latches outwardly in a transverse direction of the longitudinal axis from retracted positions to extended positions of the latches. The female part has a hole surrounded by a rim, which allows the latches to penetrate into the hole in their retracted positions and behind which the latches hook in their extended positions.