Switch Lock Apparatus for Folding Knife Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding knives face complications in manufacturing due to modifications required for foldable functions, leading to increased production costs and limitations in materials used for blades and handles.
Innovation Solution
A switch lock apparatus comprising a top plate, insert, spring, lock plate, and bottom plate, with a button mechanism that allows for rotational configurations, providing simplicity and interchangeability in production while enhancing the knife's robustness and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modifications are made to blade and handle materials to accommodate foldable function, then folding capability is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into separate modular components including a lock plate, insert, spring, and bearing assemblies. Each component can be manufactured independently using standard materials and processes, then assembled together. This segmentation allows conventional materials to be used without requiring complex integrated modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch lock apparatus uses universal components such as standard springs, bearings, and plate structures that can be produced through conventional manufacturing processes. These multi-functional elements serve both structural and locking purposes without requiring specialized material modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modifications are made to blade and handle materials to accommodate foldable function, then folding capability is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the lock mechanism into separate manufacturable components, each part can be produced through cost-effective conventional processes rather than requiring expensive integrated material modifications. The modular approach enables independent optimization of each component's manufacturing method.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism employs simple, easily replaceable components made from conventional materials that can be manufactured at low cost. If wear or damage occurs, individual components can be replaced without requiring specialized or expensive materials, reducing overall production and maintenance costs.
3Ease of operation
If a switch lock mechanism is added to enable opening/closing control, then blade control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking functions are merged into a single integrated plate structure with built-in spring and bearing mechanisms. The lock plate incorporates multiple functional elements that work together through simple geometric relationships, providing effective blade control without requiring a complex multi-component system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex active locking mechanism, the design employs a passive spring-loaded system where the default state is locked and unlocking is achieved by overcoming the spring force. This inverted approach simplifies the mechanism by eliminating the need for complex locking actuators while maintaining effective blade 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
The solution simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces production costs, and increases the knife's robustness and strength by allowing for interchangeable parts and smooth operation between closed and open positions.
Implementation Method 1
a spring between the insert and the lock plate
Implementation Method 2
first and second sets of one or more bearings, wherein the first set facilitate rotation between the top plate and the insert
Data Source
AI summary
A switch lock apparatus includes a top plate; an insert; a spring; a lock plate; and a bottom plate. The top plate and the bottom plate are rotationally fixably attached. The spring separates a top surface of the lock plate and a bottom surface of the top insert. The insert, the spring, and the lock plate are rotationally fixably attached. The bottom plate includes a space for lodging a portion of the lock plate. The lock plate is substantially rotationally fixably attached when the portion is lodged in the space. The lock plate is rotationally movable with respect to the bottom plate when the portion is not lodged in the space. The insert is attached to a blade portion of a knife. At least one of the top plate and the bottom plate is attached to a handle portion of the knife.