Integral Panel Locking Mechanism with Living Hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel locking systems require high production accuracy and separate locking members, making them complex and costly to manufacture, and may not provide adequate resistance to prevent premature locking during handling.
Innovation Solution
A set of panels with a locking mechanism where the pivot axis is fixed, allowing precise displacement, and the locking member is integral with the panel, using a living hinge or bendable portion for controlled locking, and an actuator for rotating the locking member from an unlocked to a locked position, eliminating the need for separate locking members and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking member is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity and production accuracy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is merged with the second panel by forming it integral to the panel structure. The locking member includes a bendable portion that can be bent relative to the second panel, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining the locking function.
2Reliability
If a separate locking member is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the production accuracy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is formed as an integral part of the second panel, eliminating the need for separate production processes and reducing the cumulative accuracy requirements. The bendable portion allows for controlled movement without requiring precise assembly tolerances between separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member incorporates a bendable portion that can dynamically adjust its position. This dynamic element allows the locking mechanism to accommodate variations in manufacturing precision while maintaining reliable locking function through controlled bending movements.
3Ease of manufacture
If the locking member is integral with the panel, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the locking mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into distinct functional portions: a bendable portion for movement and a locking portion for engagement. This segmentation within the integral structure allows for simplified manufacturing while maintaining manageable mechanism complexity through clear functional separation.
4Measurement precision
If the pivot axis is fixed, then the locking action precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot axis is merged with the integral locking member structure rather than being a separate component. This integration provides a fixed pivot axis for precise locking action while avoiding the complexity of additional pivot mechanisms, as the pivot functionality is inherent in the locking member's design.
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
The solution provides a simple, cost-effective locking mechanism with controlled locking action, preventing premature locking and ensuring secure engagement of panels without the need for additional components, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and panel stability.
Implementation Method 1
the locking member is formed integral with the second panel... a bendable portion for moving the locking member with respect to the rest of the second panel by bending the bendable portion
Implementation Method 2
the locking member has a stop surface remote from the pivot axis, which stop surface cooperates with the locking surface of the male part in locked condition of the panels so as to lock the panels with respect to each other
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.