Pet Cage Locking Apparatus with Rotational Linear Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pet cage locking arrangements are insufficient in impact resistance and safety, and the ergonomic operation of push-type switches is not user-friendly, while rotational locking structures can become unstable when applied to only two metal lock bars.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus featuring a rotatable turntable connected to elongate metal lock bars through a linear conversion mechanism, which converts rotational motion into linear movement of the lock bars, enhancing stability and safety, and incorporating a spring mechanism for ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a push type operation switch is used to drive metal lock bars, then the locking arrangement can be simple in structure, but the ease of operation deteriorates as it is not ergonomic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static push-type operation into a dynamic rotational operation using a turntable. The turntable can be rotated manually to drive the lock bars, providing a more ergonomic operating motion that is easier on the user's finger while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The turntable introduces a curved rotational motion path instead of linear push motion. This curved mechanism allows the user to operate the locking arrangement by rotating the turntable, which is more ergonomic and reduces finger strain compared to pushing a linear switch.
2Device complexity
If only two metal lock bars are used with a rotational structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stability deteriorates because the metal lock bar is offset from the centre position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent intentionally uses an asymmetric configuration where the turntable is positioned offset from the center of the door. This asymmetric placement of the rotational mechanism allows two lock bars to be effectively controlled while maintaining overall structural stability through the offset geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The turntable acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's rotational input and the linear motion of the lock bars. This intermediary component transforms the rotational motion into linear displacement of the lock bars, enabling stable operation with only two lock bars while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If metal lock bars are made linear for stable movement, then the reliability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirement increases due to multiple bends needed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of bending the metal lock bar multiple times to achieve the desired shape and motion, the patent inverts the approach by using a turntable mechanism that generates the motion externally. The lock bar remains relatively simple in shape, and the complex motion is achieved through the rotational mechanism rather than through complex bar geometry.
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 improved stability and safety by ensuring simultaneous linear movement of metal lock bars, enhancing the locking mechanism's reliability and ease of use, while eliminating the need for multiple bends in the lock bars, resulting in a more secure and convenient locking system.
Implementation Method 1
a linear conversion mechanism arranged between the turntable and the rearward extending portion of the connecting member; the linear conversion mechanism configured to convert rotation of the turntable about the axis of rotation to linear movement of the connecting member
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a spring mechanism for ergonomic operation
Data Source
AI summary
A locking apparatus for a pet cage is disclosed. The locking apparatus comprises a turntable rotatable about a central axis of rotation; at least one elongate metal lock bar, where elongate metal lock bar is configured to extend along a radial line originating from the axis of rotation of the turntable and a connecting member for operably connecting the elongate metal lock bar and the turntable. The connecting member comprises a forwardly extending portion for receiving a front section of the elongate metal lock bar and fixing a retained end of the elongate metal lock bar to the connecting member and a rearward extending portion which extends parallel with and is outwardly offset from the forwardly extending portion. The connecting member also includes a linear conversion mechanism arranged between the turntable and the rearward extending portion of the connecting member; the linear conversion mechanism configured to convert rotation of the turntable about the axis of rotation to linear movement of the connecting member in the same direction as a longitudinal direction of the elongate metal lock bar.