Rotating Locking Ring for Single-Handed Cylindrical Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for connecting mechanical elements with cylindrical ends are complex, requiring both hands and sometimes tools for operation, and fail to simplify ergonomics, especially in precision applications where ease of use and sealing/connection are critical.
Innovation Solution
A locking system featuring a male cylindrical end piece with a hollowed-out locking groove and a female tubular end piece with a through hole for a movable locking element, where a locking ring with a recess of variable depth allows orthoradial rotation for locking and unlocking, enabling single-handed operation using two fingers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional locking systems are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but operation complexity increases requiring both hands and sometimes tools
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to move dynamically between locked and unlocked positions through rotational movement of the locking ring. The system transitions from static locking mechanisms to dynamic ones where the locking element can be easily repositioned by rotating the ring, enabling single-handed operation without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes rotational movement (orthoradial dimension) instead of linear axial movement. By rotating the locking ring, the locking element moves between positions to engage or disengage from the locking groove, adding a rotational dimension to the locking operation that simplifies user interaction.
2Productivity
If axial movement locking mechanisms are used, then secure connection is achieved, but operation time increases due to bidirectional movements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking operations are achieved through periodic rotational movement of the locking ring. Instead of requiring multiple axial movements in opposite directions, a single rotational cycle (periodic action) of the ring accomplishes both locking and unlocking, significantly reducing operation time and improving productivity.
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are used, then reliable locking is achieved, but ergonomic performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring design allows the user's fingers to naturally engage with the ring structure for rotational manipulation. The system is designed to be self-serving where the user's own hand structure (fingers gripping the ring) provides the necessary leverage and control, eliminating the need for additional tools or complex manual dexterity requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking system which comprises a male cylindrical end (12) and a female tubular cylindrical end (16) inside of which the male cylindrical end (12) is to be inserted for coupling. A locking groove (24) is provided in the outer surface (20) of the male cylindrical end (12). In addition, the female tubular cylindrical end (16) is bored on the side with a through-opening (28) inside of which a mobile locking element (30), which projects inside the female tubular cylindrical end (16) and into the locking groove (24) of the male cylindrical end (12), is arranged. Finally, a locking ring (36) is mounted such as to rotate freely on the outer surface of the female tubular cylindrical end (16) opposite the through-opening (28), said ring (36) having an inner surface (40) in which a recess (42) having an orthoradially variable depth enables the locking/unlocking of the mobile locking element (30) against the locking groove (24), depending on the position of the ring. The locking groove (24) also extends in the axial direction (z) of the male cylindrical end (12) from a free end thereof, in order to guide and angularly limit the insertion of the male cylindrical end (12) in the female tubular cylindrical end.