Stationary Platform Locking Assemblies That Prevent Column and Leg Loosening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locking mechanisms for multi-piece center columns and telescoping legs of stationary platforms, such as tripods, fail to provide sufficient stability, leading to accidental loosening and detachment during use.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly that secures two column portions together using a non-circular insert and fastening rod system, preventing rotation and ensuring secure engagement, and a locking mechanism for telescoping legs with a locking ring, rotation stop, and locking nut to prevent unintended disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If threading is used to join column pieces, then the connection allows for length adjustment and weight reduction, but the threads unintentionally loosen during axial rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking element with non-circular cross-section that prevents rotation, and a fastening element that secures the connection. This segmentation allows the column to maintain both adjustability and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element features a non-circular cross-section (square, rectangular, triangular, or polygonal) that creates an asymmetric interface. This asymmetry prevents rotational movement while maintaining a secure sliding fit, resolving the issue of thread loosening during rotation.
2Ease of operation
If twist-lock designs are used for telescoping legs, then the locking mechanism is simple to operate, but the lock can unthread and legs can collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element uses a non-circular cross-section that fits into a corresponding non-circular cavity in the leg section. This asymmetric geometry allows the lock to be easily engaged and disengaged while preventing any rotational movement that could cause unthreading or collapse.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary component between the telescoping leg sections. It provides a positive mechanical stop that prevents over-rotation and ensures the leg sections remain securely locked at the desired length.
3Reliability
If multiple locking components are added to prevent loosening, then connection stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and fastening functions are combined into a single integrated mechanism. The non-circular locking element and fastening rod work together as one system, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing overall complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to locking assemblies. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to locking assemblies for a center column of a stationary platform. In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to locking assemblies for legs of a stationary platform.