Propeller Motor Locking Mechanism for Secure Detachable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current propeller-motor coupling configurations face issues such as blade ejection due to loose fasteners, wear during acceleration and deceleration, and the inability to disassemble for transportation, leading to potential damage and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a locking member and position limiting lock catch is introduced, featuring locking parts on multiple sides to securely connect the propeller and motor, preventing separation and facilitating easy disassembly for transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a permanent fixing configuration is used to connect the propeller hub and motor, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the propeller hub cannot be disassembled for transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static permanent fixing configuration to a dynamic detachable configuration. The locking member can be rotated between a locked position (providing strong connection) and an unlocked position (allowing disassembly for transportation), making the system adaptable to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate components: a locking member with locking parts, a propeller hub, and a motor. This segmentation allows the locking member to be independently operated to either secure or release the connection between the propeller hub and motor, enabling both strong connection and easy disassembly.
2Ease of manufacture
If a threads tight fitting configuration is used to connect the propeller hub and motor, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the blade may cause the propeller hub to disengage due to inertial forces during abrupt speed changes
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism provides preliminary anti-action by pre-positioning locking parts on the locking member that engage with corresponding features on the propeller hub and motor. This preventive locking action counteracts the inertial forces that would otherwise cause disengagement during abrupt speed changes, maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking parts are designed with curved surfaces that provide friction engagement and mechanical interlocking. The curved geometry of the locking parts and corresponding recesses creates a more reliable connection that resists the centrifugal and inertial forces generated during rapid acceleration and deceleration.
3Ease of operation
If a mechanical position limiting configuration is used to connect the propeller hub and motor, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to wear during acceleration and deceleration movements causing the screw to become loose
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-maintaining through its friction-based engagement. The locking parts continuously press against the propeller hub and motor surfaces, creating self-lubricating friction that reduces wear during acceleration and deceleration. This self-service mechanism maintains connection reliability without requiring external maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates friction engagement that acts as a cushioning element before wear becomes problematic. The continuous friction contact between locking parts and the propeller hub/motor surfaces distributes and absorbs the stresses of acceleration and deceleration, preventing the rapid wear that would otherwise loosen the connection.
4Ease of manufacture
If a mechanical position limiting configuration with screws is used to connect the propeller hub and motor, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because screws may become loose during high speed rotation causing the blade to fall off
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with a friction-based locking system. Instead of relying on threaded fasteners that can loosen under vibration and centrifugal force, the locking member uses friction engagement between locking parts and the propeller hub/motor surfaces to maintain a secure connection during high-speed rotation.
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion system assembly includes a propeller and a motor configured to drive the propeller to rotate. The propeller includes one of a first body and a second body. The motor comprises the other one of the first body and the second body. The propulsion system assembly also includes a locking mechanism configured to detachably connecting the first body and the second body. The locking mechanism includes a locking member and a position limiting lock catch. The locking member is configured to lock the first body and the second body. The locking member includes locking parts located at at least two sides of the locking member. When the locking parts of the locking member rotate to a locking position, the position limiting lock catch is mounted to a side of the locking parts, to restrain the locking member from rotating relative to the first body.