Tool-Free Locking Mechanism for Rapid Component Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjusting and/or locking devices for tools require additional tools for operation, making the replacement or adjustment of components lengthy and challenging, especially in applications like filling machines where multiple devices need to be accessed.
Innovation Solution
A device with a locking/unlocking member that can transition between engagement and release positions without additional tools, allowing for quick adjustment or replacement of replaceable members, such as spacers, in actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking screws and clamps are used to secure the replaceable member, then the fastening reliability is improved, but the operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from the replaceable member itself and transfers it to a separate locking/unlocking member. This allows the replaceable member to be simply inserted and removed, while the locking member provides secure fastening when engaged, thus reducing operation time while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is pre-configured with engagement and release profiles that automatically perform the fastening function when the replaceable member is inserted. The operator only needs to perform the final locking action, while the preliminary positioning and alignment are handled by the pre-designed profiles
2Reliability
If multiple locking screws are used to ensure good fastening, then the fastening reliability is improved, but the device complexity and accessibility difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated locking member that performs the role of multiple screws and clamps. This locking member can be actuated by a single tool, simplifying the device structure while maintaining secure fastening through the combined engagement of multiple profiles
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to perform multiple functions: positioning, securing, and locking the replaceable member in a single component. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized fastening elements, reducing complexity while maintaining reliability
3Reliability
If traditional clamps with blocking screws are used, then the replaceable member can be securely held, but the accessibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member acts as an intermediary between the operator and the replaceable member. It provides a convenient interface for tool application while maintaining secure engagement with the replaceable member through its engagement and release profiles, thus improving accessibility without compromising holding capability
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An adjusting and/or locking device (100) by replacing a replaceable member (110, 120) comprising at least one engagement portion (115, 125), said device (100) comprising a locking/unlocking member (150) adapted to cooperate with said replaceable member (110, 120) by contacting it at said engagement portion (115, 125), in which said locking/unlocking member (150) comprises an inner profile (150p), comprising an engagement profile (151), and a release profile (152) arranged in sequence, in which said locking/unlocking member (150) is configured to move, between a first position (T) in which the engagement profile (151) holds the replaceable member (110, 120) in place, and a second position (R) in which the release profile (152) releases the replaceable member (110, 120) for the adjustment or replacement thereof.