Shaft Locking Device with Integrated Position Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shaft locking devices for valves in aircraft require additional components for locking, which can be lost or misplaced, and do not efficiently indicate the angular position of the shaft, complicating maintenance and operation.
Innovation Solution
A shaft locking device with a locking element that can rotate freely and be positioned against a stop to prevent rotation, incorporating splines for alignment and rotation prevention, acting as both a locking mechanism and an indicator for the angular position of the shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking unit is used to prevent valve operation, then the valve can be securely locked, but additional components are required which can be lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated into the indicator assembly, combining the locking function and indication function into a single component. The locking element includes a locking portion that engages with a stop on the shaft to prevent rotation, while simultaneously serving as the visible indicator of shaft position. This eliminates the need for separate locking components that could be lost or misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element performs multiple functions: it indicates the angular position of the shaft through its visible portion, and it prevents shaft rotation through its locking portion that engages with the stop. By making the indicator serve dual purposes as both a visual reference and a locking mechanism, the design reduces component count while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If a locking unit is used to prevent shaft rotation, then the valve can be locked in position, but the angular position indication becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element combines the indication function and locking function into a single integrated component. The visible portion of the locking element serves as the indicator of shaft angular position, while the locking portion engages with the stop to prevent rotation. This integration ensures that the indication system and locking system work together seamlessly rather than independently.
3Reliability
If additional locking components are used, then secure locking is achieved, but maintenance becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking element into the existing indicator assembly, the design reduces the number of components that require maintenance. The locking element is accessed and operated through the same interface as the indicator, simplifying maintenance procedures compared to separate locking mechanisms that require additional disassembly and handling.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a shaft locking device. The device has an locking element configured to be mounted on a shaft in a first position so that the locking element indicates the angular position of the shaft. The locking element is also configured to be mounted on a shaft in a second position so that the locking element is locatable against a stop to prevent rotation of the shaft. The present application also relates to a device for determining the angular position of a shaft, a valve assembly and an actuating unit for a valve.