Rotating Arm Locking Structure With Two-Step Docking and Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rotating arm locking apparatuses are inefficient, bulky, and unstable, with limited torque and flexibility in unlocking and locking operations, particularly in electrically controlled systems.

Innovation Solution

A locking apparatus for electrically controlled rotating arms, utilizing a worm and screw mechanism with a locking drive apparatus and dual locking mechanisms, allowing for simplified structure and stable docking and unlocking through coordinated rotating actions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a worm and worm gear rotating arm is used, then the structure is simpler than electrically controlled linkage mechanisms, but the meshing gap causes the rotating arm to shake and the output torque is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidrotating arm stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into two independent parts: a locking drive apparatus that drives the first rotating member, and a second locking mechanism that cooperates with the second rotating member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and operational stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a third rotating member as an intermediary element that cooperates with the first rotating member to drive the second rotating arm to rotate. This intermediary component ensures stable power transmission and docking between rotating arms, eliminating the shaking problem caused by direct worm-worm gear meshing gaps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If an electrically controlled linkage mechanism is used, then the locking operation is automated, but the structure becomes complex, bulky, and the motor power output is unstable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking automationVSAvoidmechanism structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential locking function from a complex electrically controlled linkage mechanism and implements it through a simplified mechanical system. The locking drive apparatus and dual locking mechanisms work together to achieve automated locking without requiring complex linkages, bulky components, or unstable motor power outputs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex electrically controlled linkage mechanisms with a more efficient mechanical system based on worm-screw and nut mechanisms. This substitution maintains automation while reducing structural complexity, eliminating bulky components, and providing more stable power output through pure mechanical advantage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If manual operation is used for locking, then the structure can be simpler, but the operation is inefficient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism structureVSAvoidlocking operation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating through the cooperation of the locking drive apparatus and dual locking mechanisms. The system automatically performs locking and unlocking operations without requiring manual intervention, achieving both structural simplicity and operational efficiency simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Ensures high stability during locking and flexibility during unlocking, simplifying the structure and enhancing the operational efficiency of the locking mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

the first rotating member is a worm, the second rotating member is a screw, the worm is disposed on the screw

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

the third rotating member is a worm gear, the worm gear meshes with the worm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWorm gear mechanism: Worm Drive

Implementation Method 3

the second locking mechanism cooperates with the second rotating member to lock the first rotating arm and the second rotating arm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20260054761A1Locking apparatus for electrically controlled rotating arm and automatically folding cart
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 SHU JIFENG
  • US20260054761A1 patent drawing
  • US20260054761A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In the present invention, through the cooperation of the first rotating member provided in the first rotating arm and the third rotating member provided in the second rotating arm, the port docking of the first rotating arm and the second rotating arm are achieved. Then, the second rotating member of the first rotating arm cooperates with the second locking mechanism in the second rotating arm to perform the locking action. As the locking process of the rotating arm is divided into two steps of docking and locking, which are executed by corresponding structures, the locking stability between the locking arms and the unlocking flexibility can be ensured.