Ratchet Locking Finger for Sequential Slab Unlatching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for fixing slabs, particularly vertical or large slabs, face challenges in simultaneously unlocking all fastening means without the magnetic field causing re-locking issues, leading to cumbersome and heavy devices for handling.
Innovation Solution
A locking system comprising a body with a movable locking finger, elastic members, and a pawl mechanism that allows sequential unlocking and easy resetting, using a blocking tool to manage the locking and unlocking positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large device is used to produce a magnetic field over the entire surface of the slab, then all fixing means can be unlocked at the same time, but the device becomes too bulky and too heavy to allow easy handling
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into multiple independent locking fingers, each with its own elastic member and pawl mechanism. Instead of using one large magnetic field device to unlock all fixings simultaneously, the system segments the unlocking function into individual mechanical locking fingers that can be operated independently or collectively through the return member mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The return member acts as an intermediary mechanism that transmits the unlocking action from the blocking tool to the locking finger. The blocking tool engages with the actuating surface of the return member, which then moves the locking finger from the locked to unlocked position through the pawl mechanism, eliminating the need for a large magnetic field device.
2Weight of moving object
If fixing means are unlocked one by one without simultaneous magnetic field action, then the device weight is reduced, but the locking means may lock again to the receiving frame during the unlocking process
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking tool is inserted through the passage and engages with the actuating surface of the return member before the locking finger is fully retracted. This preliminary engagement ensures that the pawl is positioned to prevent re-locking during the entire unlocking process, maintaining reliability without requiring simultaneous magnetic field action.
Solution Approach 2:
The return member serves as an intermediary that controls the timing and sequence of the unlocking action. By engaging the blocking tool with the return member's actuating surface, the system ensures that the locking finger moves smoothly from locked to unlocked position while the pawl prevents any intermediate re-locking, solving the reliability issue without heavy equipment.
3Ease of operation
If a pawl mechanism is added to lock the finger in the unlocked position, then sequential unlocking becomes possible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pawl is integrated with the elastic member as a single unit, and the return member combines multiple functions including actuation surface, locking finger connection, and pawl engagement. The blocking tool serves dual purposes by both actuating the return member and ensuring proper pawl positioning. These mergers reduce overall complexity despite adding sequential unlocking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The return member performs multiple functions: it connects to the locking finger, provides an actuating surface for the blocking tool, and engages with the pawl to maintain the unlocked position. The elastic member simultaneously provides restoring force and houses the pawl mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed for sequential unlocking.
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
Enables efficient, sequential unlocking of slabs, allowing for easy removal and reassembly without the need for bulky magnetic field devices, improving handling and installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic member for driving the finger in the locked position
Implementation Method 2
the pawl being integral with a second elastic member connected to said body
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention concerns a system for locking a slab on a receiving frame comprising: - a body (3b) rigidly connected to a cover member (29) of the slab, - a locking finger (4) that is movable in a housing provided in the body (3b) and intended to bear on the receiving frame in a locked position, - a first elastic member (5) for driving the finger (4) into the locked position, and - a return member (9) for returning the finger (4) into an unlocked position, against the action of the first elastic member (5). The locking position in particular comprises a ratchet (51) for blocking the finger (4) in the unlocked position, the ratchet being rigidly connected to a second elastic member (16) linked to the body of the locking system, the return member comprising an actuation surface (9) intended to be moved by pressure from a blocking tool (13).