Multi-Position Lock Mechanism for Vehicle Sections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock mechanisms for devices that convert between positions, such as ramps and trailers, lack the ability to securely lock and release sections in multiple configurations, limiting their versatility and adaptability to different vehicle sizes and environments.

Innovation Solution

A lock mechanism comprising sub-assemblies and a wedge assembly that allows sections to be locked and released in various positions, enabling secure configurations as a ramp, trailer, or transportation system, with adjustable tension and spring-loaded components for easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a lock mechanism is designed to secure sections in multiple positions, then the adaptability and versatility of the device is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to lock in multiple positionsVSAvoidcomplexity of lock mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is divided into multiple sub-assemblies (first sub-assembly, second sub-assembly, third sub-assembly) that can independently engage with different sections at different positions. Each sub-assembly handles a specific locking function, allowing the overall system to achieve multi-position capability without requiring a single complex mechanism to handle all positions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism is designed with universal components that can secure sections in multiple configurations. The sub-assemblies are configured to work together to provide locking capability across various positions and orientations, making the mechanism adaptable to different device configurations (ramp, trailer, transportation system) without requiring position-specific mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If spring-loaded components are added for easy operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of locking and releasingVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Spring-loaded components are integrated into the sub-assemblies to provide automatic engagement and disengagement forces. The springs enable the locking mechanism to self-actuate during operation, reducing the manual force required by the user while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of standard spring components rather than complex actuation systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables secure locking and release of sections in multiple positions, accommodating vehicles of different sizes and dimensions, and facilitating easy conversion between configurations, enhancing the versatility and functionality of the device.

Implementation Method 1

A lock mechanism is disclosed that can be used to lockingly secure and release sections of a device relative to one another. The lock mechanism can include a wedge assembly that can be moved from a first position in which the wedge assembly is disposed between the first and second sections of the device so as to lock the lock mechanism to a second position in which the wedge assembly is not disposed between the first and second sections of the device so as to release the lock mechanism.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWedge: Wedge

Implementation Method 2

The wedge assembly that can be moved from a first position in which the wedge assembly is disposed between the first and second sections of the device so as to lock the lock mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11673502B2Lock mechanism

Publication Date: 2023.06.13 TC DEVMENT & DESIGN

AI summary

A lock mechanism is disclosed herein that can be used to lockingly secure and release sections of an apparatus relative to one another. The lock mechanism can lockingly secure the sections of the apparatus relative to one another in a plurality of different positions and, when released or unlocked, can allow the sections of the apparatus to rotate relative to one another and to different ones of the plurality of different positions.