Track Buffering Structure for Stable Automatic Homing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track buffering structures for cabinet lockers have complex designs that increase manufacturing and assembly costs, lead to high failure rates, and result in unstable positioning due to reliance on deflected fastening members, which can fail during accidental collisions.
Innovation Solution
An automatic homing and track buffering device with a compact structure featuring a buffer base with a main base body, slide margin, revolving-resistant member, buffer member, and flexible member, along with a swing member and push/draw arms, which simplifies assembly and enhances stability through a more reliable buffer action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex homing structure with multiple components (fixed member, slide member, fastening member, flexible member) is used, then positioning function is achieved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fastening member and positioning function into a single integrated homing structure. The L-shaped homing member with its horizontal and vertical segments performs both the fastening action and the positioning function that previously required multiple separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining positioning reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The homing member is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides fastening, positioning, and guiding functions. The L-shaped structure with specific geometric features enables it to interact with corresponding structures on the movable component to achieve multiple objectives with a single element, reducing the total number of parts required.
2Reliability
If a deflected fastening member is used to realize positioning, then positioning function is achieved, but positioning stability deteriorates due to frequent matching restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The homing member is pre-configured in an L-shape with specific geometric dimensions and features that enable automatic engagement with the movable component. This preliminary configuration ensures that the homing action occurs smoothly and stably without requiring repeated adjustments or frequent matching, thereby improving positioning stability and reducing the risk of failure during buffer homing operations.
3Reliability
If multiple resisting tracks and fastening grooves are installed, then fastening function is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fastening groove and resisting track features directly into the homing member structure itself, rather than requiring separate components. The L-shaped homing member incorporates these functional features as integral parts, which reduces the number of discrete parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and simplifying assembly procedures while maintaining fastening 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 enables quick, economic, and reliable assembly, improves operational smoothness and stability, reduces failure rates, and enhances durability and product competitiveness by providing a stable and effective buffer action.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible member (40) held in the flexible groove space (13)... link the swing member (20) and equipped with a resilient force
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an automatic homing and track buffering device comprising a buffer base in which there are (a) a main base body with a buffer groove space and a flexible groove space prepared at both sides, a slide margin, and a revolving-resistant member having a slip resisting wall and a revolving-resistant wall in succession; (b) a buffer member; (c) a flexible member; (d) a swing member linking the buffer member's and the flexible member's front ends and provided with a push arm and a draw arm for development of an operating space in between wherein the draw arm has a first slider (external side) and a second slider with a curved part (internal side) for development of a slide groove in between.