Rotation Output Device Lock Mechanism with Retaining Means
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock mechanisms in electric tools using movable lock members fail to provide a locking function when the output shaft is pivoted in the opposite direction of the driving direction, leading to concomitant rotation of the movable lock member and reduced operability due to the lack of a defined locking position.
Innovation Solution
A rotation output device with a lock mechanism that includes a movable lock member, a fixing member, a lock operation member, and a retaining means, where the retaining means, such as a contact member or elastic O-ring, ensures the movable lock member's position is retained regardless of the output shaft's pivoting direction, preventing concomitant rotation and ensuring a locking function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a movable lock member is used to provide a locking function, then the locking position can be defined, but the lock mechanism fails to provide locking when the output shaft is pivoted in the opposite direction due to concomitant rotation of the movable lock member
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is segmented into independent functional components: the movable lock member for radial movement, the retaining member for rotational positioning, and the cam surface for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling the lock to work reliably in both forward and reverse pivoting directions without concomitant rotation issues
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining member acts as an intermediary between the movable lock member and the housing, preventing the lock member from rotating with the output shaft while still allowing it to move radially for locking and releasing. This intermediary component solves the problem of concomitant rotation that plagues direct lock mechanisms
2Manufacturing precision
If the movable lock member is pressed toward the fixing member by the rotation output member, then the locking position is defined, but the lock mechanism requires relative rotation direction change which is not available when pivoting in the opposite direction
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses dynamic elements including the movable lock member that can shift radially, the cam surface that converts rotational motion to radial pressure, and the retaining member that maintains rotational position. These dynamic components work together to provide precise locking positioning regardless of whether the output shaft is pivoted in the forward or reverse direction
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the lock member to rotate with the output shaft to engage, the mechanism inverts the approach by using the retaining member to prevent rotation and allowing the lock member to move radially. The cam surface on the rotating output member presses the lock member radially inward, achieving locking without requiring relative rotation direction changes
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 solution provides a reliable locking function with certainty, enhancing operability by maintaining the movable lock member's position, even when the output shaft is pivoted in the reverse direction, thus addressing the limitations of existing mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining means, such as a contact member or elastic O-ring, ensures the movable lock member's position is retained
Implementation Method 2
The movable lock member is pressed toward the fixed ring using a cam face formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lock ring
Implementation Method 3
a pair of wedge effect slopes are provided for providing a locking function with a wedge effect
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention has an object of providing a rotation output device, including a lock mechanism employing a movable lock member so as to define the lock position, which is capable of, when the operator operates an output shaft to pivot, preventing the movable lock member from being concomitantly rotated with the output shaft and thus providing a locking function with certainty. The rotation output device according to the present invention includes, between the lock gears 35 and the lock ring 33, a carry plate 37 for retaining the positions of the lock gears 35 in the rotation direction when receiving a rotation force from the center ring 32. Thus, the lock ring 33 which is rotational-fixed is used as a member for preventing the concomitant rotation of the lock gears 35.