Integrated Screw Locking Mechanism for Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screw connections in various technological fields, especially in vehicle construction, face issues with automatic loosening due to shock and vibration, and existing solutions like washers or adhesives can be cumbersome or difficult to inspect and maintain.
Innovation Solution
An integrated screw lock system featuring a resilient, bow-shaped or wing-shaped section that compresses to allow rotation during tightening and automatically locks in place, using a latching mechanism with recesses to prevent loosening, which can be easily released with a tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking methods (washers, adhesives, cotter pins) are used, then screw connections can be secured against loosening, but the system becomes more complex and harder to inspect/maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the screw head itself. The locking element is integrated into the screw head structure, eliminating the need for separate locking components like washers, cotter pins, or adhesives. This integration reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element automatically performs the locking function without requiring additional components or complex assembly steps. The resilient locking element with its spring finger automatically engages with the recesses in the counterpart, providing self-service locking that prevents loosening without needing external locking mechanisms.
2Reliability
If locking mechanisms are added to prevent loosening, then reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to special tools required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be universally compatible with standard screwdriver or socket wrench operations. The pressing surface of the locking element can be engaged by conventional tools, allowing the same tool to both tighten the screw and activate the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality maintains ease of operation while providing reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary between the tool and the screw connection. When a tool applies pressure to the pressing surface, this force is transmitted through the locking element to engage or disengage the locking fingers with the recesses, facilitating easy operation while maintaining security.
3Extent of automation
If resilient locking elements are used, then automatic locking is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is segmented into distinct functional parts: a resilient body, spring fingers for engagement, and a pressing surface for tool activation. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall structure simple and manufacturable.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element utilizes a resilient, flexible structure that can elastically deform under tool pressure and automatically return to its locking position. This flexible design enables automatic locking functionality without requiring complex mechanical assemblies, springs, or multiple moving parts.
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 system securely locks screw connections without requiring special tools, prevents automatic loosening under stress conditions, and allows for easy visual inspection and maintenance, ensuring reliable operation and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an elastically or resiliently deformable, bow-shaped or wing-shaped section which, in a relaxed state (an idle position), is larger or at least more protruding in a width direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for locking a screwable element, comprising a ring part (82) and at least two locking sections (84) extending from the ring part (82). Each locking section (80) includes a web (86) connecting the locking section (84) to the ring part (82) and a web section with a predetermined curvature about which and/or on which the locking section (84) can be deflected in the second plane when a compressive force is applied externally, a pressure-receiving section (90) for receiving the compressive force, and a hook-shaped end section (92, 94) which moves into an unlocked position when the locking section (84) is deflected by a compressive force and returns to a locked position automatically when no compressive force is applied.Furthermore, an arrangement for locking a screwable element is proposed, comprising the device (80) for locking a screwable element, the screwable element (34, 36), and a locking device (38, 100) outside the device (80) and the screwable element (34, 36), which is associated with the hook-shaped end section (92, 94) such that it engages in a locking manner in a recess (100) in the locking device (38, 100).