Rotatable Lockset for Thin-Walled Pallet Bins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet loading bin locksets are unsuitable for bins with small end and side wall thicknesses, requiring two-hand operation and a complex structure due to limited space for handle operation, which complicates loading and unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
A lockset with a rotatable lock bar and handle connected via a U-shaped groove and torsion spring, allowing for easy operation and locking/unlocking with minimal effort, even in bins with small wall thicknesses, by providing sufficient space for finger access and using a torsion spring for handle support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the thickness of end and side walls is reduced to increase loading capacity, then the loading capacity and transportation amount increase, but the existing lockset becomes inapplicable due to insufficient space for handle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to rotate in a plane parallel to the outer surface of the body, changing the rotation dimension from the traditional perpendicular-to-surface orientation. This dimensional change allows the handle operation to occur within the limited thickness of the wall while still providing sufficient arc for effective manipulation, making the lockset applicable to thin-walled bins.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock bar is made rotatable around the connection portion, and the handle is made rotatable around the connection end of the lock bar. This dynamic design allows the components to move and adapt to the limited space, enabling one-hand operation within the constrained vertical distance while maintaining full locking functionality.
2Reliability
If a separately arranged stopper is added to enable locking, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and two-hand operation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper function is merged with the handle itself. The handle serves dual purposes: as the operating lever for locking/unlocking and as the stopper that engages with the lock hole to maintain the locked state. This integration eliminates the need for a separate stopper component, simplifying the structure to enable one-hand operation while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as the rotating lever to drive the lock bar, serves as the stopper that engages with the lock hole to maintain locking, and provides the operational interface for the user. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while achieving reliable locking.
3Ease of operation
If the vertical distance between end wall plate and handle inner side is increased to allow finger access, then handle operability is improved, but the lockset cannot be located within the end wall thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The handle rotation plane is changed to be parallel to the outer surface of the body rather than perpendicular to it. This allows the handle to rotate effectively within the limited thickness of the end wall, providing sufficient operational arc for finger access without increasing the vertical distance beyond the wall thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock bar and handle are designed as rotatable components that can dynamically adjust their positions. The lock bar rotates around the connection portion, and the handle rotates around the connection end, allowing both components to move within the constrained space while maintaining full operational capability for one-hand use.
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 lockset allows for flexible, one-hand operation with reduced effort, adapting to bins with small wall thicknesses, enhancing the loading capacity and ease of use while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
A lockset with a rotatable lock bar and handle connected via a U-shaped groove and torsion spring, allowing for easy operation and locking/unlocking with minimal effort
Implementation Method 2
using a torsion spring for handle support
Data Source
AI summary
A lockset and a pallet loading bin an associated lock hole. The lockset comprises a lock bar and a handle comprising a connection end. A lock bar is provided with a hook member to interlock with the lock hole and a connection portion. The lock bar is rotatably connected via the connection portion, to a bin body of the pallet loading bin. Rotating the lock bar around the connection portion parallel to an outer surface of the bin body causes the hook member to extend into or retract from the lock hole, thereby interlocking or releasing the lockset. The handle is rotatably connected via the connection end, to a second end of the lock bar opposite to the first end of the lock bar. Rotating the handle around the connection end positions the handle close to or away from the outer surface of the bin body.