Integrated Locking Pin and Socket Spanner for Sliding Guide
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for sliding bodies on guide tracks are not suitable for machines as they require external installation, which can interfere with the structure, handling, and operation, and are not easily adaptable for high-frequency use or maintenance in compact switch machines.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a socket spanner and locking pin within the sliding body, with specific surface and edge pairings that allow form-fitting connection and disconnection without external attachments, enabling secure locking and unlocking mechanisms without increasing the machine's structure or hindering its operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with external attachments is used to form-fittingly fix the sliding body, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity and structural interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking device components (locking pin, socket spanner, pocket) directly into the sliding body structure. The locking pin is integrated as part of the sliding body, and the socket spanner with pocket is formed as an integral component, eliminating the need for separate external attachments while maintaining locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding body is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the sliding function, incorporates the locking mechanism, and includes the socket spanner with pocket for actuating the locking pin. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
2Reliability
If external locking devices are attached to ensure form-fitting connection, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened due to increased structural interference
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components are merged into the sliding body, reducing structural interference and improving ease of operation. The integrated design eliminates protruding external attachments that would hinder handling and operation.
3Productivity
If external devices are added to enable high-frequency operation and maintenance, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking functions are integrated into the sliding body structure, enabling high-frequency operation without requiring additional external devices. The compact integrated design reduces the time and complexity associated with locking operations.
4Ease of operation
If the locking pin is made accessible for manual operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability is worsened due to unintentional release risk
Solution Approach 1:
The pocket in the socket spanner acts as an intermediary that controls access to the locking pin. The locking pin can only be actuated through the controlled movement of the socket spanner, preventing direct manual access and unintentional release while maintaining operational capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device on two bodies movable in a sliding manner relative to each other on a sliding track has a locking pin (7) which is guided in a straight-line mechanism in the guide body transversely with respect to the sliding track and is movable in the expelling direction. A socket spanner is guided in a sliding manner parallel to the sliding direction in the guide body. The locking pin (7) projects with an actuating end into a pocket of the socket spanner. The pocket has edges and surfaces for expelling and inserting the locking bolt and for blocking the straight-line mechanism. The locking device is suitable in particular for the connection and aligning movement of two guide bodies as occur in particular in a point operating mechanism.