Interlocking Lifting Tool Wedge Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy objects are difficult to quickly and safely secure to a lifting tool without additional tools or using more than one hand, and it is challenging to rotate the object once lifted.
Innovation Solution
The interlocking lifting tool (ILT) system, which includes two or more clamp jaws that lock around the object and a wedge lock key that prevents unintended detachment, allowing for secure attachment and rotation of heavy objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional lifting tools are used to secure heavy objects, then the objects can be lifted, but the attachment process is difficult and requires additional tools or more than one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting tool is divided into two separate jaw members that can be opened and closed independently. This segmentation allows the jaws to be manually opened for easy attachment while still providing a secure locked state when closed, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge lock key is designed to be manipulated by the user to directly engage or disengage the locking mechanism between the jaw members. This self-service design eliminates the need for additional tools or multiple hands, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining secure attachment.
2Ease of operation
If traditional lifting tools are used, then objects can be lifted, but rotation of the object is difficult once lifted
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw members are designed with a dynamic locking mechanism that maintains secure attachment during lifting but allows for easy rotation when needed. The wedge lock key provides a reliable locked state that can be quickly changed to an unlocked state, enabling rotation without compromising attachment security during the lifting process.
3Reliability
If clamp jaws are designed to lock securely around the object, then attachment reliability is improved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge lock key combines multiple functions into a single component: it engages the locking surfaces of both jaw members, prevents unintended detachment, and provides a clear indication of the locked state. This merging of functions achieves reliable attachment security without requiring a complex multi-component locking mechanism.
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 ILT system enables quick and secure attachment of heavy objects to a lifting tool using one hand and facilitates easy rotation of the object once lifted, improving efficiency and safety in lifting operations.
Implementation Method 1
the wedge lock key prevents the two or more clamp jaws from moving in response to the wedge lock key being in the locking position
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes two or more clamp jaws. The two or more clamp jaws are configured to lock around the object in response to the object being pressed against the inner profile of the clamp jaw. The two or more clamp jaws unlock by moving a wedge lock key from a locking position. The wedge lock key prevents the two or more clamp jaws from moving in response to the wedge lock key being in the locking position.