Preassembled Cam Lock Assembly with Lost Motion Slot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cam lock assemblies require proper orientation of the stop washer and set screws for different uses, leading to installation errors and improper function if not correctly aligned.
Innovation Solution
A preassembled cam lock assembly with a housing, tail piece, cam driver, and drive member, where the tail piece has an arc-shaped cutout and cam driver features an arc-shaped lost motion slot, allowing for correct orientation and operation without manual adjustment of stop washers and set screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the stop washer and set screws are manually oriented during installation, then the lock assembly can be properly configured for different uses, but installation errors occur and improper function results if not correctly aligned
Solution Approach 1:
The stop washer and set screws are pre-oriented during manufacturing to match specific lock configurations (right-hand, left-hand, captive, non-captive). This preliminary action eliminates the need for installers to manually orient these components, preventing installation errors while maintaining proper lock function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different pre-assembled configurations are created by changing the orientation parameters of the stop washer and set screws during manufacturing. This allows the same lock assembly design to be produced in multiple ready-to-install variants, each optimized for a specific use without requiring field adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lock assembly is designed to be versatile for different uses, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of proper orientation and installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly is segmented into pre-configured variants based on usage type (right-hand, left-hand, captive, non-captive). Each segment represents a complete, ready-to-install configuration, eliminating the need to manage orientation complexity across all possible configurations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
A single lock assembly design platform serves multiple functions through pre-assembled configurations. The same basic design can be manufactured in different orientations to accommodate various door and drawer types, providing versatility without increasing installation complexity for the end user.
3Reliability
If the stop washer and set screws require precise orientation, then proper lock function is achieved, but installation time and precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The precise orientation of the stop washer and set screws is performed during manufacturing rather than installation. This preliminary action ensures correct function is achieved while eliminating the time-consuming orientation step from the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly is delivered in a self-configured state with all components pre-oriented for proper function. The installation process becomes a simple mounting operation without requiring the installer to perform time-consuming orientation adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A preassembled cam lock assembly comprising is disclosed which includes a housing defining a throughbore configured to receive an interchangeable lock core. A tail piece is fixedly secured on a rear face of the housing. The tail piece defines a stepped bore including an arc-shaped cutout. Each end of the arc-shaped cutout defines a stop surface. A cam driver is configured to be rotatably retained in the stepped bore of the tail piece. The cam driver includes a first end defining an arc shaped lost motion slot and a second end adapted to engage a cam. The cam driver has a plurality of spaced bores which are dimensioned to receive a driver pin which is movably positioned within the cutout of the tail piece between the stop surfaces. A cam is secured to the second end of the cam driver adjacent the tail piece. A drive member is positioned within the throughbore of the housing and is adapted to engage an interchangeable lock core such that actuation of the interchangeable lock core effects rotation of the cam driver. The drive member includes a drive pin which is slidably positioned within the lost motion slot of the cam driver such that rotation of the drive member moves the drive pin through the lost motion slot such that the driver pin engages an end of the lost motion slot to effect rotation of the cam driver.