Measuring Arm Multifunctional End Interface Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current three-dimensional measuring devices face challenges in improving user interaction and handling, particularly with bulky or heavy measuring members, and in providing flexible and secure attachment mechanisms for various measuring components.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates an articulated arm with a fastener base, a handle with a transverse slideway, and a locking mechanism that includes a control lever for securing the measuring member, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of measuring members, and providing a secure grip with interchangeable handles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a contactless measuring member is used, then measurement capability is improved, but the device becomes bulkier and harder to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is divided into separate components: the interface body that attaches to the articulated arm, and the handle that can be independently held by the operator. This segmentation allows the bulkier measurement components to be separated from the handling components, improving both measurement capability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface body acts as an intermediary between the articulated arm and the handle. It provides a connection mechanism that allows the handle to be securely attached or detached, serving as a mediator that enables the operator to control the bulky measuring device with a more manageable handle.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added to the interface body, then attachment reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring-loaded elements and cam surfaces. When the handle is inserted into the interface body, the spring automatically engages the locking features without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems, achieving reliable attachment with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism replaces complex multi-component fastening systems with a simplified mechanical engagement using spring-loaded lugs and cam surfaces. This mechanical substitution maintains high reliability while reducing the number of parts and assembly steps compared to traditional screw or clip-based systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional measuring device, comprising an arm having a free end provided with an interface body and a handle enabling an operator to point the measuring member at a zone of the object that is to be measured. The handle is secured to a fastener base having an end portion that includes a slideway extending transversely relative to the longitudinal direction of the handle in order to co-operate with a slideway of the interface body, the interface body and the end portion of the fastener support having both complementary abutment means so as to define a mutual engagement position of the slideways and also complementary locking means that oppose disengagement of the slideways, the complementary locking means including a control lever that is hinged to the end portion of the fastener base between an activation position for activating the locking means and an inactivation position for inactivating the locking means.