Mutually Lockable Panels With Integral Pivoting Locking Members
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for panels require high production accuracy and separate locking members, leading to complex assembly processes and potential misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
A set of panels with integral locking members, such as pivotable or bendable locking members, that maintain a fixed position relative to the panel, allowing for precise locking actions without separate components, and include actuators for controlled locking without additional assembly steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate locking members are used, then locking function is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is integrated directly into the panel structure, merging the locking function with the panel body. This eliminates separate locking components and reduces the need for high precision manufacturing of separate parts, as the locking features are formed as part of the panel itself during standard manufacturing processes.
2Reliability
If separate locking members are used, then locking function is achieved, but assembly process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking member into the panel, the number of separate components to be assembled is reduced. The locking features are already positioned correctly during panel manufacturing, eliminating alignment operations and reducing assembly steps while maintaining reliable locking function.
3Reliability
If separate locking members are used, then locking function is achieved, but misalignment risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member and panel are manufactured as a single integrated component, ensuring that locking features are automatically aligned during panel production. This eliminates the risk of misalignment between separate locking components and panel edges, as the locking features inherit the precise geometry of the panel itself.
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
Simplifies manufacturing, ensures precise alignment, and provides controlled locking without separate components, reducing the risk of misalignment and enhancing stability, especially on soft surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
the locking member is pivotable about a pivot axis that extends substantially parallel to the edge of the second panel
Implementation Method 2
a bendable portion for moving the locking member with respect to the rest of the second panel by bending the bendable portion
Data Source
AI summary
A set of mutually lockable panels comprises a first panel having an edge including a male part and a second panel having an edge including a female part for receiving the male part of the first panel in unlocked condition of the panels. The male part has an outer side which, in locked condition of the panels, is directed to the second panel in a direction substantially parallel to the front face of the first panel, and an opposite inner side which is provided with a locking surface. The female part comprises a locking member, which is pivotable about a pivot axis that extends substantially parallel to the edge of the second panel and an actuator for rotating the locking member from its unlocked condition to a locked condition of the panels.