Lock Mechanism Trace Member Segmentation for Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch devices in vehicle compartments suffer from reduced durability due to the use of twisting force on the trace member, which also requires high measurement precision and increases mold expenses, while providing insufficient lock strength.
Innovation Solution
A lock mechanism featuring a circulating cam groove and a roughly angle-bracket shaped trace member that sways without twisting force, utilizing two trace parts for locking where only one is necessary, reducing sliding resistance and enhancing lock strength by contact with a wall surface only in the locked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If twisting force is applied to the trace member to make it circulate following the circulating cam groove, then the trace member can be made to circulate in the same form as the groove, but the durability of the trace member deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The trace member is divided into two separate trace parts that function independently. One trace part circulates following the circulating cam groove without twisting, while the other trace part contacts the wall surface only in the locked state. This segmentation eliminates the need for twisting force to achieve circulation, thereby improving durability while maintaining operational functionality.
2Ease of operation
If high measurement precision is required for the circulating cam groove to enable smooth circulation, then circulation can be achieved, but mold expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the trace member into two separate trace parts, the system allows one part to follow the circulating cam groove with minimal precision requirements, while the other part provides locking functionality through contact with the wall surface. This segmentation reduces the manufacturing precision requirements for the circulating cam groove, thereby lowering mold expenses while maintaining smooth circulation.
3Device complexity
If only one trace part is used for locking, then the structure is simpler, but the lock strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The trace member is segmented into two trace parts that work together to provide enhanced locking capability. One trace part engages with the circulating cam groove during operation, while the other trace part contacts the wall surface specifically in the locked state. This segmentation allows the system to achieve greater lock strength through dual engagement points without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
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 design improves durability and reduces mold expenses by eliminating twisting force, maintaining smooth operation with similar sliding resistance to single-trace part systems while enhancing lock strength through dual-trace part engagement.
Implementation Method 1
a trace member, which is formed roughly in an angle bracket shape and is provided to be capable of swaying on said moving member
Data Source
AI summary
A lock mechanism holds a moving member on a main body immovably in a locked state and allows movement in an unlocked state. The lock mechanism includes a circulating cam groove formed on the main body or the moving member, and a trace member having an angle bracket shape with one and the other trace parts to sway on the main body or moving member. The one trace part circulates along the circulating cam groove in each approaching and moving away operation of the moving member, and locks the moving member in a state having coupled with the coupling part. A wall surface is formed on the main body or moving member to be disposed in a different position from the circulating cam groove so that the other trace part of the trace member is operable to contact the wall surface only in the locked state of the moving member.