Lock Arm Release Jig Structure for Damage-Free Unlocking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unlocking methods for mated structures, such as those described in Patent Document 1, require careful handling and can damage the lock arm if excessive force is applied, making it difficult to unlock the lock without causing damage.
Innovation Solution
The method involves resiliently deforming the lock arm by moving a release jig downward along the up-down direction, allowing the lock to be unlocked without the need for adjusting force, using a release jig that fits into guide channels and releases the lock through lateral movement of the lock arm's released portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If leverage principle is used to unlock the lock arm, then the lock can be unlocked, but the release jig may be damaged due to excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the leverage-based mechanical system with a direct linear pushing system. The release jig 70 simply moves downward along the up-down direction to push the lock arm 26, eliminating the need for rotational leverage and reducing stress concentration points that could cause damage to the release jig.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the motion parameter from rotational (leverage) to linear (downward movement). By moving the release jig 70 linearly along the up-down direction, the force application becomes more controlled and distributed, preventing excessive localized stress that could damage the release jig while still achieving lock arm deformation.
2Reliability
If careful handling is required, then the lock arm can be unlocked, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the lock arm 26 to be resiliently deformed through its own elastic properties when the release jig 70 pushes it downward. The lock arm's material properties and structural design allow it to automatically return to its original position after deformation, eliminating the need for operators to carefully control force application or manually reset components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using leverage to amplify small forces, the patent applies direct downward force that is sufficient to deform the lock arm's resilient portion. This inversion of the force application approach simplifies the operation while maintaining safety, as the direct linear push is more intuitive and easier to control than rotational leverage.
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
This approach allows for easy unlocking of the mated state without damaging the lock arm, ensuring the lock can be released safely and efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
a lock arm 26 resiliently deformed by the release portions 84 inserted in the gaps 58 to move the released portions 36 outward
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A structure comprises a first member and a second member. The first member has a lock arm which extends along a front-rear direction and is resiliently deformable. The lock arm has a lock portion and a released portion provided on a rear end part of the lock arm. The second member has a locked portion, a facing portion and a guide channel extending along an up-down direction. The lock portion locks the locked portion under a mated state of the first member and the second member, and the mated state is locked. The facing portion is located forward of the guide channel and faces the released portion in a lateral direction when the first member and the second member are under the mated state. When the structure under the mated state is seen along the up-down direction, a gap located between the facing portion and the released portion is visible.