Stake Locking Unit with Radial Ring and Clamping Hook
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking units for stakes on transport vehicles and trailers are either noisy due to chains, require tools for removal, or are cumbersome to operate, and fail to allow the stake to pivot freely without unlocking, and do not enable easy detachment without tools.
Innovation Solution
A locking unit with a tubular stake end and a cylindrical socket featuring a radial locking ring and a clamping hook, where the clamping hook interlocks with the locking ring in the locked position and moves to a cut-out in the unlocked position, allowing the stake to pivot and be removed without tools, with supporting protrusions guiding the stake's movement and limiting pivoting angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a chain is used to attach the stake to the socket, then the stake can pivot slightly, but the chain clatters during driving and branches may get jammed in it
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful chain element from the system and replaces it with a solid locking ring and clamping hook mechanism. The locking ring with radial cut-out and the clamping hook with interlocking end eliminate the chain's clattering and jamming problems while maintaining the necessary pivoting capability through the geometric design of the locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the durable but problematic chain with a simple, robust locking ring and clamping hook assembly that achieves the same functional goal without the harmful side effects. The locking mechanism uses basic geometric interlocking rather than a flexible chain, providing a cleaner, more reliable solution.
2Reliability
If a bolt with washer is fixed to the lower end of the stake, then the stake cannot come out of the socket, but tools are needed for removal and displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring and clamping hook mechanism is designed to be self-operating. The stake can be removed by manually manipulating the locking ring relative to the clamping hook without requiring external tools. The geometric design allows the operator to simply pull or manipulate the stake to disengage the locking components, making the system self-servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct components: the locking ring with radial cut-out on the stake, and the clamping hook in the socket. This segmentation allows independent movement and manipulation of each component, enabling tool-free removal by simply disengaging the interlocking elements through manual operation.
3Reliability
If the stake is locked firmly in the socket, then the stake cannot come out, but the stake cannot pivot freely either
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic system that allows controlled pivoting. The locking ring can rotate relative to the clamping hook within certain limits, enabling the stake to pivot freely during operation while maintaining secure locking. The radial cut-out in the locking ring provides the necessary clearance for this dynamic movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of locking engagement from fully rigid to semi-flexible. The locking ring and clamping hook are designed with specific geometric parameters that allow the stake to pivot within a certain angle range while maintaining secure attachment. This parameter optimization enables both firm locking and free pivoting simultaneously.
4Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism components are exposed, then they can be accessed easily, but they are vulnerable to damage during loading operations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is nested inside the tubular end of the stake, and the clamping hook is nested within the socket structure. This nesting arrangement protects the critical locking components from external damage during loading operations while still allowing easy access for operation. The components are positioned within the structural elements rather than exposed on the exterior.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
Present invention relates to a locking unit 2 for a stake 1, said locking unit comprising a socket 3 for receiving an end 4 of the stake 1 and locking said end 4 of the stake 1 pivotally into said socket 3. Locking unit 2 enables the stake 1 to pivot in the socket 3 without unlocking of said stake 1 from said socket 3 when the stake 1 strikes an obstacle. Also said locking unit 2 enables the stake 1 to be returned by the force of gravity back into its original position.