Foldable Trestle Automatic Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding trestle structures with legs require manual and complex deployment and locking mechanisms, lacking in safety and automatic assembly capabilities, especially when trying to assemble two independent trestles securely.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates automatic locking joints, offset joint configurations for superimposed folding, rotating cut-out joints, beveled leg ends, spring-activated foot deployment, and a secure crosspiece assembly system using cooperating shapes and a stud, allowing for irreversible immobilization and compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual locking mechanisms are used in existing folding trestles, then the structure can be assembled, but the deployment process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock the legs in place through self-engaging features. The legs have integrated locking surfaces and cam mechanisms that automatically engage when the legs are extended, eliminating the need for manual locking operations while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking features are pre-positioned on the legs and crosspieces during manufacturing. The cam locks and locking surfaces are predetermined in their positions, so that when the legs are extended, the locking action occurs automatically without requiring additional steps or complex mechanisms during deployment
2Volume of moving object
If folding legs are designed to store inside the crosspiece, then compactness is improved, but the locking reliability during deployment becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The leg structure is segmented into distinct sections with integrated locking features at each joint. Each leg segment has its own locking mechanism that independently secures the segment in place, ensuring reliable locking while allowing the segmented structure to fold compactly into the crosspiece when collapsed
Solution Approach 2:
The folding legs are designed to nest within the crosspiece structure when collapsed. The legs fold inward and store inside the hollow or open structure of the crosspiece, achieving compact storage while the integrated locking features ensure reliable immobilization when deployed
3Strength
If two independent trestles are assembled together, then the support capacity increases, but the assembly safety and security become concerns
Solution Approach 1:
Two independent trestles are designed with complementary joining features that allow them to be securely connected. The crosspieces have integrated connection elements such as interlocking profiles, bolts, or welding surfaces that merge the two structures into a stable combined support system, increasing overall capacity while maintaining assembly safety through predetermined connection points
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 deployment, ensures safe and automatic assembly of two independent trestles, achieves irreversible locking, and maximizes compactness, providing a solid and secure support system with no play when loaded.
Implementation Method 1
The rotational movement of the locks (6) (6') around the axes (12) (12') is caused by the two springs (19) (19')
Implementation Method 2
The two joints (2) (3) and the pairs of feet (4) (4') and (5) (5') pivot around the axes of rotation (7) (7') thanks to their own weight
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The pair has a crossbar (1) whose end includes a gutter and a bolt, where the other end of the crossbar includes a cut (23) and another bolt. Another crossbar includes an end with a cut in which the gutter is inserted, and another end with a pin integrated to an axle of the latter crossbar and inserted in a housing of the former crossbar. The former bolt is released to integrate the pair and to facilitate transport of the pair. Each crossbar includes two articulations (2, 3) in which beveled upper ends of feet (4, 4', 5, 5') are housed, where the articulations are articulated.