Spring-Loaded Hook Locking Mechanism for Safe Remote Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote-controlled suspension devices lack a mechanism to ensure that an object is safely placed on a base before it can be detached, risking accidental detachment when the remote control is operated.
Innovation Solution
A suspension device with a pivotable hanging body and a locking bolt system, actuated by an electric motor, which engages and disengages a locking recess based on load weight, preventing detachment unless the load has been safely placed on a base, utilizing a spring force mechanism and remote control operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote-controlled locking device is used to detach the object from the suspension body, then the object does not need to be detached by hand after being set down on a base, but there is no guarantee that the object will only be detached once it has been safely placed
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a spring-loaded hub section that provides mechanical feedback about the load state. When the object is placed on the base and the suspension body becomes unloaded, the spring returns the hub section to its initial position, automatically enabling the locking mechanism. This feedback ensures the object can only be detached when safely placed, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Reliability
If the suspension body is kept locked during operation to prevent accidental detachment, then safety is improved, but the device cannot be opened for normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions dynamically between locked and unlocked states based on load conditions. The spring-loaded hub section automatically adjusts the locking state: locked when loaded (preventing accidental detachment) and unlocked when unloaded (enabling operation). This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between safety and operational accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device automatically manages its own locking state without external intervention. The spring mechanism self-activates based on whether the suspension body is loaded or unloaded, eliminating the need for manual locking/unlocking operations while maintaining safety. This self-service capability resolves the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the hub section is spring-loaded to automatically return to initial position when unloaded, then the locking mechanism can only be activated when the object is on the base, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded hub section serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical feedback about load state, enables automatic locking/unlocking transitions, and ensures the object can only be detached when safely placed. By consolidating these functions into a single mechanism, the patent minimizes added complexity while achieving reliable load-based control.
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
Ensures that the suspension body can only be opened when the load has been safely placed on a base, preventing accidental detachment and optimizing battery consumption by only using power during transition phases.
Implementation Method 1
In the locking position, a spring force acts between the hub portion of the suspension body and the pivot axis, specifically radially to the pivot axis. The hub section of the hanging body can be supported in the closed position against a spring device on the pivot axis. The spring force can be formed by a compression spring which is supported on the one hand on the hub section and on the other hand on the pivot axis.
Implementation Method 2
The spring force can be formed by a compression spring which is supported on the one hand on the hub section and on the other hand on the pivot axis. In the locking position, the compression spring is arranged above the pivot axis.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a device having a hook (5) for suspending an object (7), comprising a joint head (1) having two flanks (2, 3) between which a swivel pin (4) runs, about which the hook (5) is pivotally mounted by a hub section (6) between a closed position pivoted to the joint head (1) for suspending the object (7) and a release position pivoted away from the joint head (1). A locking unit having a locking pin (8) that engages in a locking recess (9) on the hook (5) in the closed position, and an actuator (11) for unlocking the locking pin (8), a receiver (13) for a remote control for activating the actuator (11), and a power source (14) for supplying power to the receiver (13) and the actuator (11) are also provided. In the closed position, a spring force is active between the hub section (6) of the hook (5) and the pivot axis (4) in the radial direction. If a predetermined load (Lo) engaging on the closed hook (5) is exceeded, the receiver (13) and/or the actuator (11) is deactivated.