Spring-Biased Locking Member for Faster Secure Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap-type locking devices require multiple steps for locking and unlocking, and there is a need for improved elastic force and rotational positioning to simplify operations.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a mounting seat, locking member, and compression torsional spring that allows the locking member to automatically rotate and move axially, simplifying the locking and unlocking process through a combination of axial and rotational biasing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring is provided to prompt automatic rotation and movement of the locking device, then the locking and unlocking operations are simplified, but the structure complexity increases and proper elastic force provision becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the compression spring and torsion spring into a single integrated elastic component that simultaneously provides both axial compression force and rotational torsion force. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate spring components needed and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the automatic rotation and movement assistance during locking and unlocking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic component serves multiple functions: it provides compression force during axial movement, provides torsion force during rotational movement, and maintains biased positioning in both axial and rotational directions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate springs for each function, reducing structural complexity while improving ease of operation.
2Reliability
If multiple steps are required for locking and unlocking, then the locking action is secure, but the operational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic component is pre-biased to automatically push the locking member into the locked position axially and rotate it to the correct angular position. This preliminary automatic action reduces the manual steps required from multiple twists to a single insertion motion, significantly reducing operational time while maintaining secure locking through the engineered biased forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device uses the elastic component's stored energy to automatically perform the locking action without requiring multiple manual operations. The system serves itself by using the biased spring forces to complete the axial insertion and rotational positioning of the locking member automatically when activated, reducing both operational steps and time while ensuring reliable engagement.
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 device enables fast and efficient locking and unlocking with reduced operational steps by utilizing a compression torsional spring to assist in the automatic rotation and axial movement of the locking member.
Implementation Method 1
a compression torsional spring, disposed between the mounting seat and the locking member, bias the locking member toward the first axial position and the second rotational position
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a locking device including: a mounting seat; a locking member, rotatable around an axial direction and movable in the axial direction, when the locking member is in a first axial position and a first rotational position, the locking member is retracted into the mounting seat along the axial direction, and the mounting seat prevents the locking member from rotating around the axial direction; and when the locking member is in a second axial position and a second rotational position, at least a portion of the locking member extends in the axial direction from the mounting seat, to be inserted into and engaged with a second object, and the mounting seat prevents the locking member from moving in the axial direction; and a compression torsional spring biasing the locking member toward the first axial position and the second rotational position.