Toolless Optical Knob Assembly With Non-Separating Spindle Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toolless knob assemblies for sighting devices require disassembly, risking loss of parts and difficulty in reattachment under field conditions, especially in poor lighting or weather.
Innovation Solution
A toolless knob assembly that disengages a rotatable knob from a spindle assembly without separating any parts, using a collet with capturing members and a spring mechanism to allow for tool-free rotation relative to the spindle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a set screw is used to secure the knob to the spindle, then the knob and spindle can rotate together as a unit, but the adjustment mechanism requires a tool (hex-key) for tightening and loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional set screw mechanical system with a magnetic field-based securing mechanism. The permanent magnet mounted on the spindle interacts with the magnetically attractable material in the knob, creating a secure connection without requiring any threaded fasteners or tools. This substitution enables tool-free adjustment while maintaining reliable connection between the knob and spindle.
2Ease of operation
If the set screw is loosened to allow relative rotation between knob and spindle, then tool-free adjustment is possible, but the connection between knob and spindle becomes insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical set screw system with a magnetic field-based securing mechanism. The permanent magnet on the spindle creates a magnetic field that continuously secures the magnetically attractable material in the knob, allowing the connection to remain secure even when no mechanical fastening is engaged. This enables tool-free adjustment while maintaining reliable connection.
3Measurement precision
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used, then precise adjustment is possible, but disassembly is required which risks part loss and reattachment difficulty in field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems that require disassembly with a magnetic field-based securing mechanism. The permanent magnet and magnetically attractable material create a secure connection that can be easily engaged and disengaged without tools or disassembly, enabling precise adjustment in field conditions without risk of part loss or reattachment difficulty.
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
Enables easy, tool-free adjustment of optical devices in the field without risking part loss or reattachment difficulties, ensuring precise calibration and operation in various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetically attractable material is provided in the knob, and a permanent magnet is mounted on the spindle in spaced relation to the magnetically attractable material
Implementation Method 2
a spring device to urge the body away from the spindle to engage the capturing members with the spindle
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments described herein may include a rotatable assembly including a rotatable knob, the rotatable assembly further including: a collet or other body having capturing member(s) to at least partially surround or flank a spindle; and a grippable device usable to move the collet relative to the spindle to disengage the capturing member(s) from the spindle; wherein the knob and the spindle rotate together as a unit when the capturing member(s) are engaged to the spindle, and wherein the knob rotates relative to the spindle when the capturing member(s) are disengaged from the spindle. Other embodiments may be disclosed and/or claimed.