Telescopic Prop Locking Assembly That Prevents Hook Snagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for adjustable telescopic props in construction, such as G-hooks, suffer from issues like stacking and catching on other parts, leading to potential misalignment and damage during construction.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism featuring a slotted prop nut with a guiding ring and captive grooved pin assembly that allows for secure locking and unlocking of inner and outer tubes without hindering the rotation of the prop nut, using a compact design to prevent misplacement and facilitate easy stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If G-hooks are used for locking the inner tube with the outer tube, then the locking function is achieved, but the hooks cause stacking problems and can get caught in other parts
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a prop nut for threading onto the outer tube, a separate pin assembly for locking, and a guiding ring for alignment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, eliminating the stacking problems of G-hooks while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A guiding ring is introduced as an intermediary component between the prop nut and the pin assembly. This guiding ring facilitates smooth insertion and alignment of the pin into the inner tube, preventing the pin from getting caught in other parts while ensuring accurate positioning for reliable locking.
2Reliability
If a separate hooking mechanism is used for locking, then the locking function is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The prop nut and locking pin functionality are merged into a single integrated assembly. The pin assembly is designed to be inserted through the prop nut, combining the threading function and locking function into one compact unit that reduces overall assembly complexity while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The prop nut serves multiple functions: it threads onto the outer tube for positioning, houses the locking pin assembly, and provides a gripping surface for operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate hooking mechanisms, reducing assembly complexity while ensuring reliable locking.
3Reliability
If the pin is made large in geometry (e.g., G-shaped hook) for anti-loss arrangement, then the locking reliability is improved, but the pin causes stacking problems and can get caught in other parts
Solution Approach 1:
The pin assembly is nested within the prop nut structure, with the pin inserted through the nut's opening. This nested arrangement keeps the pin contained and organized, preventing it from getting caught in other parts while maintaining its locking reliability. The pin is effectively 'housed' within the prop nut assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin is pre-aligned with the inner tube's locking hole through the guiding ring before insertion. This preliminary alignment ensures the pin enters the hole smoothly without deviation, preventing it from getting caught in other parts while maintaining secure locking reliability.
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 secure, efficient, and compact locking of telescopic props, ensuring accurate alignment and stability, reducing the risk of misplacement and damage, and enhancing operational convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a slotted prop nut having a slot and adapted to move in either direction when rotated on the outer tube having threads
Implementation Method 2
a captive grooved pin assembly adapted to be accommodated in the guiding ring for locking and unlocking the inner tube and the outer tube
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for locking an inner tube with an outer tube of an adjustable telescopic push-pull prop assembly is disclosed. The locking mechanism includes a slotted prop nut having a slot and adapted to move in either direction when rotated on the outer tube having threads, a guiding ring adapted to be accommodated in the slot of the slotted prop nut, and a captive grooved pin assembly adapted to be accommodated in the guiding ring for locking and unlocking the inner tube and the outer tube such that the slotted prop nut encases the guiding ring and the captive grooved pin assembly. The positioning of the captive grooved pin assembly is such that it does not hinder the rotation of the slotted prop nut.