Lock Arrangement Hinge Mechanism for Compact Load Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock arrangements for load supports lack simplicity and compactness, often requiring multiple moving parts and complex mechanisms to ensure secure locking and easy operation.
Innovation Solution
A lock arrangement forming a hinge with a compact and robust design, utilizing a male and female lock member system with a rod and trigger mechanism, allowing for secure locking and easy opening with minimal moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple moving parts is used, then locking security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent lock elements (first lock element with first lock members, second lock element with second lock members), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows simplified individual components while maintaining overall security through multiple locking points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the locking and hinge functions into a single integrated lock arrangement. The lock members simultaneously provide secure locking and enable hinge movement, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
2Device complexity
If a compact lock design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but locking reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The lock members are nested within housing structures that contain the locking mechanisms. The first lock members and second lock members are positioned within respective housings, creating a compact integrated assembly that maintains reliability through organized spatial arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock arrangement is designed to automatically maintain its locked position through the interaction of lock members with the housing and base structure. The system self-maintains locking reliability without requiring additional active components or complex control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If multiple lock elements are used, then locking security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock arrangement serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides secure locking through multiple lock elements, enables hinge movement, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified design that operates as a single system rather than separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock elements are designed to dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states through the hinge movement. The system adapts its state based on the relative positions of the base and cover, providing automatic locking during closure and easy operation during opening.
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 proposed lock arrangement provides excellent locking security, preventing separation of the lock members and maintaining the lid in place even under strong vibrations, while also allowing for quick verification of the lock status.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring (19) at least partially compressed between a first end (19A) bearing on a wall (17A1) of the chamber (17A) or a part secured to a wall of the chamber and a second end (19B) bearing on the latch (18) or a part associated with the latch (18), said first spring (19) exerting a thrust force on the movable latch (18)
Implementation Method 2
a second spring (21) exerting a force on the trigger (20) to exert a pushing force on it towards the first extreme trigger position (figure 6A)
Implementation Method 3
The latch (18), the trigger (20) and the rod (12A2) are adapted to cooperate with each other for the passage from an unlocked position maintained by a contact of the latch (18) on one end of the trigger (20), to a locked position maintained by the movement of the latch (18) by the action of the latch spring and by the pushing force of the trigger (20) on the latch (18)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Lock arrangement adapted to form a hinge, comprising at least two lock elements (10A, 10B) each comprising a female element (11A) and a male element (12A), the female element comprising a latch (18) movable by translation against a spring (19) on which a trigger (20) acts to hold the latch (18) in distinct positions in the chamber (17A) of the female element, said latch (18) having a recess (18E) adapted to receive a rod (12A2) of the male element (12A) at least in the locking position.