Roller Shutter Apron Coupling Device Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller shutter coupling devices between the apron and winding shaft have limited resistance to tearing, leading to detachment issues and require complex assembly and multiple parts, making them difficult to install and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device featuring a connecting ring with a spiral shape around the winding shaft, a single attachment link, and locking means that prevent the apron from rising, allowing for easy installation and reduced parts, with the ring being flexible for easy positioning and replacement without dismantling the shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional coupling devices with multiple rings and attachment links are used, then the connection between apron and winding shaft is established, but the device complexity increases and resistance to tearing is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (rings and attachment links) into a single integrated coupling device. The coupling device comprises a single body with a first attachment link for connecting to the winding shaft and a second attachment link for connecting to the apron, eliminating the need for multiple separate rings and links while maintaining connection strength and reducing overall complexity.
2Reliability
If complex locking systems with multiple components are used, then the apron locking function is achieved, but the ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are integrated directly into the single coupling device body rather than being separate components. The coupling device includes built-in locking mechanisms that engage with the winding shaft and apron simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate locking systems and simplifying installation to a single assembly operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed with pre-configured attachment links and locking means that are already positioned and prepared for engagement. The first attachment link is pre-formed to connect to the winding shaft, and the second attachment link is pre-positioned to connect to the apron, allowing for quick installation without complex assembly steps.
3Reliability
If traditional assembly methods with multiple components are used, then the connection is established, but the ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all connection and locking functions into a single coupling device, the patent simplifies repair operations. Instead of needing to replace multiple separate rings and attachment links, the entire coupling device can be replaced as a single unit, or individual components within the device can be accessed and replaced more easily due to the integrated design.
4Strength
If rigid coupling devices are used, then the connection strength is maintained, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates flexible elements that allow for dynamic adjustment during positioning and installation. The device can flex or deform slightly to accommodate positioning variations, making installation easier while maintaining full connection strength once properly assembled. This dynamic capability enables easier manufacturing and positioning without compromising the rigid strength requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The device (1) has blocking units formed by a groove (27), projections parts (29, 29'), internal side (31) and external sides (33, 33'), fixed between a connection ring (7) and a rotating shaft (5). A coupling link (9) has an end (11) mounted in a pivot connection with the ring and another end (13) integrated to an upper end of an apron. A locking unit formed by a stop unit locks the apron in a deployed position to stop the roll up of apron, and is arranged between the ring and link at the level of pivot connection assembly between the elements to block the pivotment of link on the ring.