Spring-Loaded Hinge Locking Mechanism for Low-Strength Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for furniture are complex, require high-strength materials, and transfer forces to the device, making them unsuitable for use with low-strength or fragile surfaces, and lack a simple, aesthetically pleasing design for visible placement.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a first part fixed to a stationary part via a hinge connection, utilizing a spring system for locking and a release mechanism, allowing the second part to pivot between locked and unlocked positions without transferring forces to the device, and featuring a closed profile for reduced part count and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism with bar element and recess is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the mechanism becomes complex and requires high-strength materials
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent parts: a first part with a protruding element that engages with a second part having a corresponding recess. This segmentation allows each part to be simpler in design while maintaining the locking function through their interaction, reducing overall mechanism complexity compared to a single integrated locking structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The first part is positioned inside the stationary part, and the second part is positioned inside the first part. This nested arrangement allows the locking mechanism components to be compactly integrated within the closed profile structure, reducing the number of external parts and simplifying the overall device while maintaining the locking function.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with bar plate and swing axis is used, then the locking function is achieved, but forces are transferred to the device requiring high strength
Solution Approach 1:
The spring acts as an intermediary element between the first part and the stationary part, providing the locking force through elastic deformation rather than direct force transfer to the device. The spring absorbs and stores energy, allowing the locking mechanism to function without requiring the device itself to have high strength properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses a spring with specific elastic properties to change the force parameters, converting the need for high-strength rigid connections into a system that uses elastic deformation and spring force. This allows the use of lower-strength materials for the device while maintaining reliable locking function.
3Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism is placed in a visible position, then accessibility is improved, but the design must be aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components are merged within a closed profile structure that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The closed profile encloses the mechanical parts, presenting a clean, simple external design that is aesthetically pleasing while maintaining full accessibility to the release mechanism through appropriately positioned openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed profile acts as a shell that encloses the locking mechanism components, providing a sleek, finished appearance. The profile includes openings that allow access to the release mechanism while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the overall design, balancing visibility and appearance.
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 solution provides a simple, easy-to-operate locking mechanism that can be used with low-strength surfaces, reduces the number of parts, and allows for a pleasing design, ensuring forces are absorbed internally, enhancing usability and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
an attachment position for a spring (7) or spring system which spring (7) or spring system forces the first part (1) into the locked position
Implementation Method 2
a spring (7) or spring system which spring (7) or spring system forces the first part (1) into the locked position
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a locking mechanism which locks a first part relative to a second part. When unlocked, either the first or second part can be pivoted relative to the other between at least one locked and at least one unlocked position. The locking mechanism is to be attached to a device or a device part comprising a first (1) and a second (9) part. The first part is fixed unreleasable to a stationary part (2) via a hinge connection (5, 6) defining a swing axis a1, the first part can pivot relative to the stationary part along the swing axis a1 and has at least two positions: a locking position and a not locking position, the first part comprises: -- a protruding part (1 a) extending in direction of the second part (9) and having a first contact surface (1 b), -- an attachment position for a spring (7) or spring system which spring or spring system forces the first part into the locked position, upon biasing the spring (7) the first part is brought to the unlocked position, -- a release mechanism (1c, 1 d) which upon user impact biases the spring. The second part (9) comprises a first protruding part (4) having a second contact surface (4a) and a second protruding part (14) having a third contact surface (14a), the second part can be in a locked position and in an unlocked position and when in the locked position the first contact surface (1 b) touches the second contact surface (4a), the second part (9) is placed in a bearing (3, 3a, 3b) allowing rotation between the locked and unlocked positions of the second part while the bearing is fixed relative to the stationary part (2). The bearing or the stationary part or an independent part held in position by the stationary part or by the bearing (3, 3a) has a fourth contact surface (8a) and in the locked position the third contact surface (14a) of the second part touches the fourth contact surface (8a).