Receiver Locking Mechanism for Compact Secure Component Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an effective low-volume locking system to securely lock components within a receiver structure, such as a receiving rack, while maximizing space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves an actuator coupled with the component for swinging movement, an engaging member that responds to the actuator's position to move perpendicular into an engaging position, and a bias member that urges the engaging member into place, allowing for partial insertion and secure locking within the receiver structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking system is designed to securely lock a component within a receiver structure, then the reliability of component retention is improved, but the volume occupied by the locking system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is at least partially received within the receiver structure when the component is locked, nesting the actuator inside the existing structure. This eliminates the need for external locking protrusions and reduces the overall volume required for the locking system while maintaining secure component retention through the engaging member mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging member moves perpendicular to the actuator's swinging axis, utilizing a second dimension of motion. This orthogonal movement allows the locking action to occur in a different spatial plane, enabling compact integration within the receiver structure without requiring additional linear space along the actuator's primary axis
2Volume of moving object
If the actuator is at least partially received within the receiver structure, then the volume of the locking system is reduced, but the complexity of the engagement mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and engaging member are coupled together as an integrated assembly, where the actuator's swinging motion directly drives the engaging member's perpendicular movement. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall mechanism while achieving both compact volume and reliable engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The bias member automatically urges the engaging member into the engaged position with the engagement structure, providing self-locking functionality. The bias member's elastic force automatically maintains the locked state without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems, reducing both volume and complexity
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 system provides a compact and reliable locking mechanism that securely engages components without bending or damaging contacts, offering improved security and resistance to vibration or temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one bias member coupled with the at least one engaging member. The at least one bias member urges the at least one engaging member from the engaging position
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus securing a component in a receiver structure having an engagement structure includes: (a) An actuator coupled with the component for swinging movement along a first axis between a first position and a second position. (b) At least one engaging member coupled with the component and responding to the actuator moving to one position of the first and second position to move in a second axis substantially perpendicular with the first axis into an engaging position with the engagement structure. (c) At least one bias member coupled with the at least one engaging member. The at least one bias member urges the at least one engaging member from the engaging position. The actuator is fitted with the component to permit at least partial insertion of the actuator within the receiver structure.