Mortise Lock Spindle Connecting Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly and disassembly of mortise lock spindle configurations require significant time and effort, especially in configurations with separate spindles connected by an all-thread rod, which complicates the operation and maintenance of the latch operators.

Innovation Solution

A spindle connecting device with a securing element that moves between engaged and disengaged positions to securely attach and detach the spindle from the hub, allowing for easier assembly and disassembly by utilizing a peripheral groove and a retaining element with biasing means to facilitate rotational force transmission and spindle removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate spindles are used for each latch operator and joined by an all-thread rod, then the latch operators can independently operate the hub or hubs, but assembly and disassembly require significant time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent operation of latch operatorsVSAvoidassembly and disassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle assembly is divided into separate spindles for each latch operator, allowing independent operation of each hub. The spindles are connected through a simplified joining mechanism that maintains independence while reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The joining mechanism between spindles is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing quick connection and disassembly without permanent fastening. This enables easy maintenance and reconfiguration while maintaining the independent operation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a unitary spindle is used that extends through the case and is secured at each end, then the inside handle is permanently engaged with the hub and outside handle, but assembly and disassembly require significant time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepermanent engagement of handle with hubVSAvoidassembly and disassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The securing mechanism is designed to be dynamically changeable between secured and unsecured states. The spindle can be quickly connected to and disconnected from the hub using a simple mechanism that maintains reliable engagement during operation while enabling easy maintenance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The permanent securing feature is extracted and replaced with a removable securing mechanism. This allows the spindle to be easily removed from the hub for maintenance or replacement while maintaining reliable engagement during normal operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If an all-thread rod is used to join separate spindles, then the spindles are connected but may rotate relative to one another, but assembly and disassembly require significant time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelative rotation capability of spindlesVSAvoidassembly and disassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into separate spindles that can be independently connected and disconnected. This modular approach maintains the ability for relative rotation while simplifying the assembly and disassembly process compared to a permanent all-thread rod connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9169666B2Door latch operator apparatus
Publication Date: 2015.10.27 ASSA ABLOY ACCESSORIES & DOOR CONTROLS GROUP INC
  • US9169666B2 patent drawing
  • US9169666B2 patent drawing
  • US9169666B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for securing a spindle to a hub in a mortise lock for a door. The device includes a hub defining a central opening about an axis of rotation and a spindle with a first end adapted to be received in the opening in the hub to apply rotational force to the hub. A securing element is moveable between a first position in which the securing element engages the spindle and the spindle is secured to the hub, and a second position in which the securing element is disengaged from the spindle and the spindle may be freely removed from the opening in the first hub. The securing element may be adapted for reciprocal linear movement in the housing, and may engage the first spindle by part of the securing element being received in a peripheral groove in the spindle.