Locking Mechanism With Opposite-Thread Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for aircraft applications require a balance between reliability and lightweight design, often failing to provide a secure and efficient locking solution that is both robust and compact.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism featuring a base with arcuate arms and rotatable locking elements that move between retracted and extended positions, driven by a rotary shaft with opposite threads, allowing for simultaneous movement of locking elements in opposite directions to securely retain a shaft across a 360° arc.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used to ensure reliability, then security is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two separate locking elements (10, 12) that operate independently but symmetrically, each engaging with the shaft (24) at different positions. This segmentation allows for a more distributed and reliable locking action while using lighter individual components compared to a single massive locking element.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements (10, 12) are designed with arcuate shapes that follow the curvature of the shaft (24), allowing them to wrap around and secure the shaft effectively. This curved geometry provides reliable retention through contact over an arc (approximately 90 degrees each) while using minimal material, reducing weight compared to straight or blocky locking components.
2Reliability
If locking elements are positioned to provide full 360° retention, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two locking elements (10, 12) are positioned asymmetrically around the shaft (24), with each element engaged at different angular positions. This asymmetric arrangement provides comprehensive 360-degree coverage while maintaining simple individual element designs and straightforward actuation through the single drive shaft (50).
Solution Approach 2:
The drive shaft (50) combines two opposite-handed threaded portions (54, 56) into a single component, allowing simultaneous actuation of both locking elements (10, 12) from one actuator. This merging simplifies the control system while achieving comprehensive security coverage through coordinated movement of multiple locking elements.
3Reliability
If locking elements move through large arcs for full engagement, then retention reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide channels (32) in the arms (6, 8) are formed as arcuate channels that guide the locking elements (10, 12) through their rotational movement. The curved geometry of these channels naturally accommodates the arcuate motion path, reducing the need for extremely precise linear guidance while ensuring reliable engagement through the full arc of movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The arcuate guide channels (32) and arcuate locking elements (10, 12) work together where the geometry of the channels themselves provides the guidance and constraint necessary for reliable engagement. The design uses the natural geometry of curved paths to ensure proper alignment and engagement without requiring additional precision-machined features or complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 mechanism provides a lightweight, reliable locking solution that securely retains a shaft across a full 360° arc, ensuring robust retention while minimizing weight and preventing inadvertent movement.
Implementation Method 1
The drive comprises a rotary drive shaft having a right handed thread portion for driving one locking element and a left handed thread portion for driving the other locking element
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism comprises a base comprising a pair of arms projecting therefrom and defining an open mouthed recess for receiving a member to be selectively retained in the recess. The mechanism further comprises a pair of locking elements mounted between said pair of arms for rotational movement between a retracted position in which they permit access to the recess and an extended position in which they extend at least partially across the mouth of the recess. The arms comprise respective guides to guide the movement of said locking elements between said retracted and extended positions. The mechanism further comprises a drive for simultaneously moving the locking elements in opposite rotational directions. The drive may comprise a drive shaft having left handed and right handed threaded portions.