Adjustment mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjustable slopeboards have restrictive and time-consuming adjustment mechanisms, limiting the dynamic adjustment of height and angle, which is a challenge in providing users with a more flexible and efficient angling solution.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism featuring pivotally connected elements with locking means and a pushbutton actuating mechanism that allows independent pivotal movement of legs relative to the body, enabling quick and precise adjustment of height and angle, with spring-loaded locking mechanisms and interlocking teeth for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hinged writing surface with notches is used for adjustment, then the angle is adjustable, but the adjustment process is time-consuming and restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from static notch-based adjustment to dynamic continuous adjustment. The legs can pivot freely during adjustment and are locked only when the desired position is reached, enabling smooth, continuous angle changes rather than discrete notch-to-notch movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking mechanisms automatically engage when the legs reach their desired position, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The system self-locks at the optimal position, reducing adjustment time and effort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If screw-in feet are used for height adjustment, then minor angle adjustments are possible, but the adjustability is restrictive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The leg pivoting mechanism provides dynamic, multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment capability. Legs can pivot independently to adjust both height and angle simultaneously, offering far greater adjustability than fixed-axis screw mechanisms while requiring simpler operational input.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into independent leg units, each with its own pivot points and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each leg, providing comprehensive control over the writing surface's height and angle without requiring coordinated manipulation of multiple screw components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a robust fixed construction is used, then stability is maintained, but adjustability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The structure dynamically transitions between fixed and adjustable states. During normal use, the spring-loaded locks maintain a fixed, stable configuration. During adjustment, the pushbutton releases the locks, allowing temporary flexibility for repositioning, after which the system self-locks to restore stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism merges the stability of fixed construction with the adjustability of hinged designs by integrating spring-loaded locking mechanisms into a pivoting leg structure. This combination achieves both structural rigidity during use and ease of adjustment when needed.
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 solution provides faster, more accurate, and greater adjustability of the slopeboard's height and angle, enhancing user experience and usability, while maintaining robustness for diverse applications.
Implementation Method 1
spring-loaded locking mechanisms
Implementation Method 2
pivotally connected elements
Implementation Method 3
first, second and third element pivotally connected to each other in series
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment mechanism, including a first, second and third element pivotally connected to each other in series; locking mechanism to lock the respective elements in a selected position relative to each other; and a pushbutton actuating mechanism that releases the locking mechanism such that the elements are independently pivoted with respect to each other and release of the pushbutton actuating mechanism re-energizes the locking mechanism.