Pivot-Locking Crossbar for Quick Cable Carrier Chain Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crossbars for energy chains require high force and often tools to mount or remove, and their locking mechanisms are complex and prone to mechanical damage, making quick assembly and disassembly difficult and insecure.
Innovation Solution
A crossbar design featuring an arcuate guide for the locking element that allows for a pivoting movement between locking and unlocking positions, eliminating the need for additional holding means and reducing complexity, with a robust structure that can withstand mechanical forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a snap-in connection is used to attach the crossbar to the side panel, then the crossbar is securely attached, but the crossbar cannot be easily or quickly assembled or disassembled and requires high force and possibly tools
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a pivoting component that transitions between locked and unlocked positions through rotational movement. This dynamic design allows the crossbar to be securely locked during operation while enabling quick release when needed, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of disassembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional snap-in mechanical connection with a locking element system that uses pivoting motion and engagement surfaces. This substitution eliminates the need for high force or tools to assemble and disassemble the crossbar, while maintaining secure attachment during operation
2Reliability
If a locking element with toggle lever design is used, then the crossbar can be locked securely, but the design is complex to manufacture and hinges are sensitive to mechanical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the hinge component from the locking mechanism and replaces it with a pivoting locking element that rotates directly on the crossbar. This elimination of separate hinge parts simplifies the overall design, reduces manufacturing complexity, and removes the vulnerability of film hinges to mechanical damage while maintaining secure locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides both the locking action and the pivoting motion in one integrated piece. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate hinges and complex assemblies, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable locking
3Reliability
If a locking element with additional holding means is used, then the locking is more secure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arcuate guide serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides the pivoting motion of the locking element, provides structural support, and defines the locking geometry. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate holding means, reducing component count while maintaining locking security
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3b
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a crossbar (4) for detachably connecting two lateral parts (3) of a chain link (2) of a cable carrier chain, the crossbar having, at least at one or at both of its ends, an attachment region (7) for releasable attachment to the particular lateral part, and the attachment region of the crossbar comprising a locking element (8) which can be moved to a locking position and to an unlocking position, wherein in the locking position the crossbar is non-releasably locked to the lateral part, and in the unlocking position the crossbar can be released from the lateral part, wherein the locking element comprises an actuating portion for selectively moving the locking element to its locking or unlocking position, as well as a locking portion for locking engagement with the lateral part. The locking element is designed as a pivot part, and when the locking element is actuated, the locking portion is moved, at least in one component of its movement, from the locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa in a pivot movement.