Multi-Rod Locking Sleeve With Deformable Pressing Blocks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mechanical fixing mechanisms cannot simultaneously fix multiple rods of different thicknesses in a small space, as they are designed to handle each rod separately.

Innovation Solution

A locking device with an outer sleeve and deformable pressing blocks, where a set screw or fastener is used to deform the locking unit, causing the pressing blocks to tightly secure rods of varying sizes in rod locking holes, ensuring consistent pressure across all rods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If multiple rods of different thicknesses are fixed using conventional separate fixing methods, then each rod can be securely fixed, but the space required for fixation increases and the complexity of the fixing mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing spaceVSAvoidability to fix different rod sizes
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device uses a universal pressing mechanism that can accommodate rods of different diameters through adjustable pressing blocks. The pressing blocks can be positioned at different locations along the outer sleeve, allowing the same device to fix multiple rods of varying sizes simultaneously within a compact space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device employs a nested structure where pressing blocks are arranged sequentially within the outer sleeve, with each pressing block capable of independently pressing a rod. The pressing blocks can be positioned at different axial locations, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces the overall fixing space while maintaining the ability to secure multiple rods of different sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If a deformable locking unit with multiple pressing blocks is used to fix multiple rods simultaneously, then the space required is reduced, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing spaceVSAvoidlocking mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking unit is designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing it to adapt its shape when pressed by the set screw. This dynamic characteristic enables the locking unit to simultaneously press multiple rods of different diameters effectively, reducing the required fixing space while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing blocks are positioned at different locations along the outer sleeve, with each block having different pressing parameters (position, force distribution) suited for rods of different diameters. This parameter variation allows the same locking mechanism to accommodate multiple rod sizes without increasing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If pressing blocks are arranged sequentially with gaps to accommodate different rod sizes, then adaptability to different rod diameters is improved, but the structural complexity of the locking unit increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different rod sizesVSAvoidlocking unit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking unit is segmented into multiple independent pressing blocks arranged sequentially along the outer sleeve. Each pressing block can independently press a rod at its designated location, allowing the device to accommodate rods of different diameters. The segmentation is achieved through simple spacing rather than complex mechanisms, maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 the simultaneous fixation of multiple rods of different sizes in a compact space with consistent locking force, allowing for flexible adjustment and linear motion without tipping, while maintaining stability through smooth shaft passage holes.

Implementation Method 1

the locking unit deforms and drives the pressing blocks to tightly press rods mounted in the respective rod locking holes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

the locking unit is formed by connecting a plurality of pressing blocks... when a set screw is screwed into the set screw hole to directly or indirectly press the locking unit, the locking unit deforms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11359659B2Locking device
Publication Date: 2022.06.14 BEIJING SURGERII ROBOTICS CO LTD
  • US11359659B2 patent drawing
  • US11359659B2 patent drawing
  • US11359659B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a locking device, comprising an outer sleeve (1) and at least one locking unit (2) located in the outer sleeve (1), wherein the locking unit (2) is formed by connecting a plurality of pressing blocks (3), a gap (5) is provided between two adjacent ones of pressing blocks (3), a rod locking hole (6) is provided in the gap (5), and a set screw hole (7) is provided on the outer sleeve (1) at a position corresponding to the locking unit (2); and when a set screw is screwed into the set screw hole (7) to directly or indirectly press the locking unit (2), the locking unit (2) deforms and drives the pressing blocks (3) to tightly press rods (8, 9) mounted in the respective rod locking holes (6) at the same time.