Electronic Housing Lock Mechanism for Vibration-Resistant Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock mechanisms for electronic devices in aircraft are unable to withstand the vibrations and loads generated during passenger use, and require either a screwing structure that is time-consuming or a dedicated tool for removal, which can be inconvenient and risky.
Innovation Solution
A lock mechanism that includes a fixing metal plate with a lock claw portion latched to a fixing portion, allowing the lock to be released quickly using a general-purpose tool, while providing increased holding force against vibrations and loads by positioning the lock claw closer to the fixing portion than the attachment portion and allowing elastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a screwing structure is used to fix the connector, then the connection strength is improved, but the time required to attach and detach increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing mechanism is segmented into a lock portion with a lock claw and a fixing portion with an engaging wall. The lock claw can be independently elastically deformed to engage or disengage from the engaging wall, allowing rapid attachment and detachment without unscrewing multiple fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock claw is designed with elastic deformability, allowing it to dynamically change shape during engagement and disengagement. When force is applied to the lock portion, the lock claw elastically deforms to release from the engaging wall, enabling quick detachment while maintaining strong locked connection during normal use.
2Reliability
If a dedicated tool is required to release the lock, then the lock security is improved, but the ease of operation and maintenance efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock release mechanism is designed to be compatible with general-purpose tools rather than requiring a dedicated specialized tool. The lock portion can be actuated by common tools available in maintenance kits, making the mechanism universally operable while still providing secure locking during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism allows for easy self-service release by maintenance personnel using standard tools. The elastic deformation mechanism enables the lock to be released by applying force in a specific direction, which can be easily accomplished with common tools without requiring specialized training or equipment.
3Ease of operation
If the lock claw is positioned farther from the fixing portion, then the ease of operation for tool insertion is improved, but the holding force against vibration and load deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock portion is designed with non-uniform geometry where the lock claw is positioned closer to the fixing portion to maximize holding force, while the tool insertion port is positioned to provide adequate accessibility. The local structural features are optimized to achieve both strong mechanical engagement and practical tool access.
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 lock mechanism effectively withstands aircraft vibrations and loads, allowing for rapid release using a general-purpose tool and enhancing maintenance efficiency by reducing the risk of screw loss and dedicated tool requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the lock portion has flexibility to allow displacement of the lock claw portion in the direction intersecting with the connection direction
Data Source
AI summary
A lock mechanism fixes connection between a first and second housings provided in an electronic device. The lock mechanism includes a lock portion provided in one of the first and second housings, and a fixing portion provided in the other thereof and fixing the lock portion by latching the lock portion in a first direction intersecting with a connection direction of the first and second housings. The lock portion includes an attachment portion attaching the lock portion to the one of the first and second housings, and a lock claw portion. When the first and second housings are connected, the lock claw portion is provided in the same direction as the attachment portion and at a position close to the fixing portion as viewed from the fixing portion in the connection direction, and is provided closer to the fixing portion than the attachment portion in the first direction.