Ratcheting Camlock for Multi-Position Flange Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camlocks for flange assemblies lack a reliable mechanical locking mechanism that allows for multiple locking positions and secure engagement without accidental release during tightening, and do not provide clear feedback to the user.
Innovation Solution
A camlock with a ratchet mechanism featuring asymmetrical toothed rings that permit rotation in one direction and limit rotation in the opposite direction, providing multiple locking positions and audible/tactile feedback, and incorporating a biasing member and actuator for secure engagement and controlled disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional camlock without a ratchet mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the locking reliability is insufficient and accidental release may occur during tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is divided into separate first and second ratchet members with toothed rings, allowing independent rotation and engagement. This segmentation enables reliable locking through mutual engagement while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed rings act as intermediary elements between the cam member and the locking mechanism. The asymmetrical teeth on these intermediary rings enable one-way rotation control, preventing accidental release while the cam member provides the primary tightening function
2Adaptability or versatility
If a camlock with a single locking position is used, then the device is simple, but the adaptability to different flange assemblies is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second ratchet members with asymmetrical toothed rings provide multiple locking positions around the rotational axis. This multi-position capability makes the camlock universally adaptable to different flange assemblies and connection requirements without requiring substantial redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism allows dynamic adjustment to multiple locking positions during rotation. The asymmetrical teeth enable the mechanism to settle at different angular positions, providing adaptability while the inherent mechanical design keeps the structure manageable
3Loss of information
If a camlock without feedback mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the user cannot confirm proper engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetrical tooth profiles on the toothed rings produce audible clicking sounds and tactile resistance at each locking position. This natural feedback mechanism confirms proper engagement to the user without requiring additional complex feedback devices, as the mechanical interaction itself provides the information
4Reliability
If a camlock allowing free rotation during tightening is used, then the operation is easy, but accidental release may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetrical tooth profiles on the first and second ratchet members allow rotation in the tightening direction while preventing reverse rotation. This asymmetrical design prevents accidental release during tightening operations while maintaining ease of operation in the intended direction through the smooth one-way engagement
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
The camlock achieves secure locking with multiple engagement points, reduces stress and wear, and provides clear user feedback, ensuring reliable operation and easy handling during assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
The inclusion of a ratchet mechanism in the camlock of the invention provides the camlock with a mechanical locking mechanism capable of applying a mechanical locking force at one or more engagement points between the first and second ratchet members to securely lock the position of the cam member about its rotational axis
Implementation Method 2
each tooth having an asymmetrical tooth profile, and wherein the plurality of teeth of the toothed rings of the first and second ratchet members are arranged in a mutual engagement to permit relative movement between the first and second ratchet members in one direction and limit relative movement between the first and second ratchet members in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 3
the relative movement between the first and second ratchet members to move the cam member to a new locking position creates audible feedback (such as a click sound) and/or tactile feedback (such as mechanical resistance) that can be sensed by a user
Data Source
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AI summary
A camlock (10) is for use in a flange assembly. The camlock (10) comprises: a cam member (12) for engaging a flange, the cam member (12) arranged to be rotatable about its rotational axis; and a ratchet mechanism including first and second ratchet members (14, 16), the first and second ratchet members (14, 16) arranged in a mutual engagement to permit relative movement between the first and second ratchet members (14, 16) in one direction and limit relative movement between the first and second ratchet members (14, 16) in the opposite direction, wherein the cam member (12) and the ratchet mechanism are arranged so that the mutual engagement between the first and second ratchet members (14, 16) permits rotation of the cam member (12) about its rotational axis in one direction and limits rotation of the cam member (12) about its rotational axis in the opposite direction.