Pivot Bearing Latching Arms for High Holding Force
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary bearings, such as scissor-stay bearings, face complexity in assembly and limited ability to transmit high holding forces due to visible and complex securing elements, which are often flat and only engage on one side of the bearing pin.
Innovation Solution
The securing element features latching arms wider than the latching recess with retaining ribs and ramps, allowing for high holding force transmission on both sides of the bearing bolt, a one-piece spring-elastic design, and easy assembly/disassembly, with the option for concealed arrangement and cost-effective plastic manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a flat securing element is used that engages on one side of the bearing pin, then the assembly is simple, but the holding force transmission is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is divided into multiple latching arms (at least two) that can independently engage with the bearing pin on opposite sides. Each latching arm functions as a separate engagement unit, allowing the securing element to transmit forces from multiple directions simultaneously, thereby increasing total holding force while maintaining relatively simple individual arm design
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element transitions from a single-sided flat engagement to a multi-sided three-dimensional engagement structure. The latching arms extend in different spatial directions to engage the bearing pin on opposite sides, creating a three-dimensional force transmission path that significantly increases holding capacity without proportionally increasing assembly complexity
2Force
If a securing element with multiple components is used, then the holding force is increased, but the assembly becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple latching arms are merged into a single integrated securing element component rather than being separate parts. This unified design allows the arms to work together as one piece that can be installed in a single assembly operation, maintaining high holding force through multi-point engagement while avoiding the complexity of assembling multiple separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The single securing element performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides engagement on opposite sides of the bearing pin, transmits forces from multiple directions, and acts as a unified structural component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each engagement point, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining high holding force
3Ease of operation
If the securing element is visible and accessible, then the assembly is easy to inspect, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is nested within the bearing structure, with the latching arms positioned inside the bearing housing and the bearing pin. The engagement mechanism is hidden within the internal geometry of the bearing, allowing the securing element to function while remaining invisible from the exterior, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while preserving ease of assembly and inspection through internal access points
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
This design ensures reliable high holding forces, simplified assembly, and concealed securing element placement, while allowing for easy tool-assisted disassembly and tolerance compensation, enhancing the structural stability and cost-effectiveness of the pivot bearing.
Implementation Method 1
the latching arms are designed to be spring-elastic and are wider than the latching recess and have retaining ribs protruding into the latching recess in the secured position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A pivot bearing, in particular a scissor bearing of a pivot fitting or tilt-and-turn fitting of a window, French door or the like, has a locking element (7, 8) with spring-loaded locking arms (13, 14). The locking arms (13, 14) engage in a locking recess (9, 10) of a bearing pin (2) of the pivot bearing and secure it in its position. The spring-loaded design of the locking arms (13, 14) allows the bearing pin (2) to move axially.