Snap-Action Coupling Stop for Stable Load Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting devices are prone to flipping under load, particularly when subjected to forces perpendicular to the opening, leading to potential damage to the object, lifting device, and other equipment.
Innovation Solution
A stop device with a snap mechanism that deflects the connecting part away from the snap-over point, generating a braking force during pivoting, which reduces the likelihood of flipping by orienting the connecting part perpendicular to the support surface at the snap-over point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the connecting part is pivotably mounted on the base part without a snap mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential flipping under load
Solution Approach 1:
The snap mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the connecting part and the base part. It includes a snap element on the connecting part that engages with a corresponding receptacle on the base part, providing automatic positioning and stabilization. This intermediary mechanism prevents direct flipping while maintaining the pivotable connection, thus improving reliability without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If the snap mechanism is added to prevent flipping, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The snap mechanism is designed to be self-activating through the natural pivoting motion of the connecting part. As the connecting part pivots, the snap element automatically engages with the receptacle without requiring additional actuators, sensors, or control systems. This self-service approach provides reliable stabilization while minimizing the increase in device complexity, as the mechanism utilizes the existing motion of the system rather than adding independent control functions.
3Ease of operation
If the connecting part allows free pivoting motion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability deteriorates due to uncontrolled movement under load
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one with controlled states. The connecting part can pivot freely during normal operation for ease of use, but the snap mechanism introduces dynamic stabilization points where the snap element engages with the receptacle. This creates a system that is both easy to operate (free pivoting when needed) and stable (automatic engagement at specific positions), resolving the contradiction between operational flexibility and positional stability.
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
Prevents the connector from assuming a dangerous flipped position, ensuring stability and safety by deflecting it away from the snap-over point, thereby preventing damage and enhancing load handling capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the snap mechanism deflects the connecting part from the snap-over point and generates a braking force in the direction of the pivoting movement
Data Source
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Figure 9~11
AI summary
The invention relates to a stop device (1) having a base part (2) for attaching to an object (10), such as a load or a loading surface. The stop device (1) further has a connection part (6), which is retained on the base part (2) and can pivot about a pivot axis (4) with respect to the base part. The base part (2) has a bearing surface (8) for bearing on the object. The connection part has an opening (12) for stopping a stopping means, lifting means, lashing means or clamping means. To improve the handling of the stop device (1) and increase its operating reliability, according to the invention a snap-action mechanism (29) is provided, which has at least one snap-over point (30) along a pivot motion (28) of the connection part about the pivot axis. The snap-action mechanism generates, in the direction of the pivot motion before the snap-over point, a braking force (32) directed counter to the pivot motion, which braking force is reduced in the direction of the pivot motion after the snap-over point. The snap-action mechanism can be used such that the connection part adopts certain positions along the pivot motion on its own. The snap-action mechanism can also be used to prevent the connection part colliding with the object or to latch the connection part in an non-use position.