Spline Sleeve Locking for Tool-Less Cable Rotation Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for locking elongate elements, such as cables, in a rotational position require specific tooling, making them impractical for applications like aircraft rigging where adjustable lengths are needed without the need for specialized tools.
Innovation Solution
An anti-rotational locking apparatus comprising a sleeve with a spline profile, a housing with aligned openings, and a quick release pin that allows for manual, tool-less locking and adjustment of elongate elements by sliding the sleeve over the element and inserting the pin to prevent rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art locking methods are used, then rotational locking is achieved, but specific tooling is required making operation complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is designed to be self-contained with all necessary locking components integrated into the assembly. The sleeve with internal profile engages directly with the elongate element's external profile, and the locking pin with retaining feature self-locks without requiring external tools, making the system service itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking apparatus serves multiple functions: the sleeve provides both rotational engagement through its internal profile and axial positioning, the locking pin provides both locking and retention functions, and the assembly works with various elongate elements having external profiles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tooling.
2Ease of operation
If tool-less locking is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin includes a retaining feature with a curved surface that engages with a corresponding curved surface on the sleeve. This curved geometry creates a self-retaining mechanism where the pin is held in the locked position by the geometry of the engagement surfaces, providing reliable locking without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining feature on the locking pin is pre-configured with a geometry that automatically engages with the sleeve's corresponding feature when the pin is inserted. This preliminary configuration ensures that once the pin is inserted, it self-retains in the locked position without requiring additional actions or tools to secure it.
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-rotational locking apparatus for locking an elongate rotatable element in a particular rotational position with respect to a housing include: a sleeve having an internal profile for slidably receiving therethrough a rotatable elongate element having a portion with an external profile configured to positively engage with the internal profile of the sleeve; a housing; and a locking pin. The sleeve has a flange with a first opening therein and the housing has a second opening therein, the locking pin being insertable in the openings. The flange is arranged for slidable alignment with the second opening in the housing such that when the openings are aligned, the locking pin may be inserted in the openings to lock the flange to the housing and thereby prevent rotation of the flange and of an elongate element extending therethrough and engaged therewith with respect to the housing.