Reusable Ball-Latch Release Mechanism for Re-Securing Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing releasable joint mechanisms are not reusable, limiting their application in scenarios where re-securing the releasable structure to the stationary structure is desirable, such as in spacecraft applications, due to non-reusable designs like the one described in US 10 047 908 B1.
Innovation Solution
A reusable release mechanism employing slidable release balls that can resecure the releasable structure to the stationary structure, utilizing a bolt with a sliding collar and rotatable portion with cam indentations and stop blocks to facilitate latching and unlatching, allowing repeated connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a non-explosive actuator with a fusible link and split washer is used to release the releasable structure, then the release mechanism can be actuated by electrical current, but the joint cannot be reused for re-securing the releasable structure to the stationary structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent recovers and reuses the release balls after they have performed their release function. Instead of discarding the release balls as in traditional designs, they are retained within the mechanism and can be repositioned to enable repeated latching and unlatching operations, making the joint reusable
Solution Approach 2:
The release balls are designed to be movable between different positions - engaged with the collar for latching and disengaged for unlatching. This dynamic positioning capability allows the mechanism to transition between secured and released states multiple times, enabling reusability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a reusable release mechanism with slidable release balls is implemented, then the joint can be reused for re-securing, but the device complexity increases compared to simple fusible link designs
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: release balls for latching/unlatching, cam indentations for controlling ball movement, and stop blocks for limiting rotation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall complex mechanism manageable and maintainable
Solution Approach 2:
The use of spherical release balls interacting with cam indentations creates a compact, space-efficient design. The curved surfaces of the balls and cam indentations enable smooth rolling motion and reliable engagement, reducing the overall size of the mechanism while maintaining reusability
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional split washer and wire compression design is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the mechanism cannot be reused and requires replacement after release
Solution Approach 1:
The release balls serve multiple functions: they act as latching elements when engaged with the collar, as release elements when positioned in the cam indentations, and as reusable components that remain within the mechanism after release. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for replacement parts while maintaining manufacturing efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
A release mechanism (12) for releasably securing a releasable structure (14) to a stationary structure (16), where the mechanism (12) employs release balls (30) that can re-secure the releasable structure (14) to the stationary structure (16). The release mechanism (12) includes a base portion (50) having three rails (70) extending radially outward from a center of the base portion (50), and a rotatable portion (52) rotatably mounted to the base portion (50), where the rotatable portion (52) has a cam indentation (72). The release balls (42) are positioned between the base portion (50) and the rotatable portion (52) so that one of the release balls (42) is ridable on each of the rails (70) and all of the release balls (42) are positioned within the cam indentation (72). The cam indentation (72) is configured so that as the rotatable portion (52) is rotated relative to the base portion (50) the cam indentation (72) causes and allows the release balls (42) to move along the rails (70) in unison with each other to hold and release the releasable structure (14).