Lock Device With Twist Lock Mechanism For Transport Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locking machines on transport vehicles, such as combine harvesters, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and often result in damage to the vehicles due to the use of chains and wires, leading to increased downtimes and rework costs.
Innovation Solution
A locking device comprising a carrying unit connected to the transport vehicle, a fastening element that can be connected to the carrying unit, and a locking stop that can be positively coupled to the fastening element, allowing for rapid loading and unloading while preventing damage, featuring a support unit with recesses and a twist lock mechanism for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chains and wires are used for locking machines on transport vehicles, then the locking function is achieved, but labor intensity increases and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional components: a fastening element with locking mechanism, a carrying unit with support surface, and locking stops. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing the time required for locking operations while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates a self-locking mechanism where the fastening element automatically engages with the locking stops through positive coupling. The recesses in the locking stops align with protrusions on the fastening element, creating automatic engagement that reduces manual labor and time consumption while ensuring reliable locking.
2Reliability
If chains and wires are used for locking machines, then the locking function is achieved, but damage to the vehicles occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device introduces intermediary components (locking stops with recesses, support surface with recesses) that distribute the locking forces across multiple contact points. This intermediary structure prevents concentrated stresses that would otherwise damage the vehicle's paint and body, while still achieving reliable locking through positive coupling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the locking interface by using recesses and protrusions that create distributed contact areas. This parameter change from point-contact chains/wires to distributed-contact locking stops reduces stress concentration and prevents paint damage while maintaining locking reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking points are provided for different machine shapes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device achieves universality through standardized components with multiple functions. The carrying unit with support surface can accommodate different machine configurations, and the locking stops with recesses can engage with various fastening elements. This multi-functional design allows the same basic structure to serve multiple locking purposes without increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses parameter changes in the form of adjustable recess positions and configurable fastening element arrangements. By varying the positions of recesses in the support surface and locking stops, the same basic device structure can adapt to different machine shapes and sizes, achieving versatility without requiring multiple specialized devices.
4Productivity
If rapid loading and unloading is achieved through quick-connect mechanisms, then productivity is improved, but locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect mechanism incorporates a self-locking feature where the fastening element automatically engages with the locking stops through positive coupling. The recesses and protrusions create automatic mechanical interlocking that ensures reliable locking without requiring complex manual operations, thus maintaining both speed and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential locking function into a separate, dedicated mechanism (the positive coupling between locking stops and fastening element) rather than relying on simple friction-based quick-connectors. This extracted locking mechanism ensures reliability while the overall quick-connect design maintains productivity.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The locking device (6) has a supporting unit (11) that is connected with a transport vehicle (1). A fixing element (12) is provided, which is connected with the supporting unit. A locking inset (35) is provided, which is connected with a machine (3). The locking inset is coupled positively with the fixing element.