Magnetic Key Locking for Torque Sensing Assemblies
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical assemblies for force and torque sensing require tools for disassembly and often involve fragile or expensive components that are difficult to reassemble, especially when using friction fit or deformed locking components like Cotter pins and keys.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic locking elements, such as keys, that fit between critical surfaces of components to prevent relative movement, eliminating the need for tools and allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by magnetic attraction, enabling secure locking and unlocking without deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction fit or deformed locking components (Cotter pins, keys) are used to prevent relative movement between components, then secure mechanical engagement is achieved, but disassembly requires tools and often requires replacement of the locking component
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking methods (friction fit, deformation, Cotter pins) with a magnetic field-based locking mechanism. The magnetic key contains magnetizable material that interacts with ferromagnetic material in the components to create secure engagement without requiring mechanical force or deformation for assembly or disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state or property used for locking from mechanical (friction, deformation) to magnetic (magnetic field interaction). By utilizing magnetic attraction between the magnetic key and ferromagnetic components, the system achieves secure engagement while allowing easy removal by overcoming the magnetic force, eliminating the need for tools or component replacement.
2Reliability
If tools are required for disassembly of mechanical assemblies, then secure locking is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming disassembly and reassembly processes
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic locking system replaces tool-based mechanical disassembly with direct magnetic interaction. The magnetic key can be easily removed by pulling it out of the slot, eliminating the need for tools and significantly reducing the time and complexity of disassembly operations while maintaining secure locking during operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent disassembly is required for load and torque sensing applications, then monitoring and testing are improved, but component damage risk increases with traditional locking methods
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic key system eliminates the need for forceful insertion and removal operations that characterize traditional mechanical locking. The magnetic attraction provides secure engagement without requiring deformation or excessive force, allowing frequent disassembly and reassembly for sensing applications without increasing component damage risk.
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
Facilitates frequent assembly and disassembly of load and torque-bearing assemblies while maintaining secure locking, allowing for efficient reuse and reducing the risk of damage to components, especially in applications where disassembly is frequent.
Implementation Method 1
a locking element that is held in place by magnetism, wherein the locking element or 'key' fits between critical surfaces of two components to prevent relative movement between them
Data Source
AI summary
Torque is transmitted by way of a shaft having an axial groove formed as a keyway therein and a key held in the groove by means of a coin-shaped magnet located in a pocket formed in the floor of the groove. A second element, such as a coupling, is configured to receive the shaft and key therein and has a matching keyway.