Foldable Knife Double Locking Mechanism for Accidental Closure Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding knives lack a reliable locking mechanism that prevents accidental closure while maintaining convenience for use and storage.
Innovation Solution
A locking foldable knife with a locking assembly comprising a blade, handle, locking bar, and lock, which allows the blade to be securely locked in extended or folded positions through a combination of shaped peripheral edges, stops, and a movable locking bar with a biasing device, and a switch lock for double security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of locking is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent functional segments: a locking bar that engages with the blade to prevent folding, and a lock switch that secures the locking bar in position. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while keeping the overall design manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines two locking functions into a single integrated locking assembly: the locking bar provides primary locking by engaging the blade, while the lock switch provides secondary locking by securing the locking bar. This merging of functions increases reliability without requiring completely separate locking systems.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental closure, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bar is designed to automatically engage with the blade when the blade is extended, and the lock switch automatically secures the locking bar when activated. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual locking steps, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bar is positioned and biased to automatically engage the blade before the user completes the extension motion. The lock switch is pre-positioned to automatically secure the locking bar when activated during the extension process. This preliminary action ensures locking occurs without requiring additional user steps.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking bar with detents and resilient member is used, then the locking stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member automatically engages the locking bar with the detents without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded resilient member provides continuous contact with the locking bar, ensuring stable locking positions are maintained automatically as the blade moves between extended and folded states.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member changes its physical state (compressed or relaxed) as the locking bar moves between different positions. This parameter change allows the same component to provide both the locking force and the mechanical advantage needed for stable locking at multiple positions, reducing the need for additional components.
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 locking assembly provides robust locking, reducing the risk of accidental closure and ensuring the blade remains in the desired position, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The hold may comprise a resilient member biased to engage the first detent when the lock is in the locked position and the second detent when the lock is in the unlocked position
Data Source
AI summary
A locking foldable knife comprises a locking assembly that reliably locks a blade in an extended and folded position. The locking assembly utilizes the surface area of a shaped peripheral edge at a second end of a blade, together with, confirming structures of a locking bar, and one or more stops to reliably lock a blade in an extended position. The locking foldable knife may be doubly secured with a switch lock that prevents inadvertent unlocking.