Trigger Assembly Locking System with Independent Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-purpose lock-on/lock-off mechanisms in trigger-operated electrical devices can confuse users, leading to accidental activation and potential harm due to the risk of inadvertently deactivating the lock-off mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A trigger assembly with separate and independently operable lock-on and lock-off mechanisms, where the lock-on mechanism uses a first and second locking member to maintain the trigger in the ON position without user pressure, and the lock-off mechanism includes a slidably mounted lock-off member that restricts trigger movement when in the locked-off position, allowing safe operation without hand position adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a dual-purpose lock-on/lock-off mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to user confusion and accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into two independent mechanisms: a lock-on mechanism with a first locking member that locks the trigger in the engaged position, and a lock-off mechanism with a second locking member that prevents trigger engagement. These mechanisms are structurally separate but integrated into a single housing, allowing independent operation while maintaining a unified user interface.
2Reliability
If separate lock-on and lock-off mechanisms are provided, then the reliability is improved by preventing accidental activation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-on and lock-off mechanisms are merged into a single integrated assembly within the trigger housing. Both locking members share common components such as the return spring, housing structure, and operational interface, allowing the system to provide enhanced safety through separate mechanisms while avoiding the complexity of completely independent systems.
3Ease of operation
If the lock-on mechanism maintains the trigger in ON position without user pressure, then the ease of operation is improved for extended use, but the safety deteriorates due to potential accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-off mechanism provides a preliminary safety measure by preventing the trigger from being engaged in the first place. The second locking member can be positioned to block trigger movement before the actuator can close the electrical switch, thereby preventing accidental activation even when the lock-on mechanism is engaged.
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 a safe and convenient operation by allowing single-handed operation of both lock-on and lock-off mechanisms, reducing the risk of accidental activation and accommodating both left- and right-handed users, while maintaining the lock-on position without continuous user pressure.
Implementation Method 1
said lock-off member being biased into a relatively central position along the sliding axis by return springs disposed on either side of the lock-off member
Data Source
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AI summary
A trigger assembly (100) for use with an electrical device having an electrical switch housing (120) with an electrical switch unit (160) disposed therein. The trigger assembly (100) comprises a trigger member (130), an actuator member (150) operably-connected to the trigger member (130) and responsive to movement of the trigger member (130) relative to the electrical switch housing (120), a lock-on mechanism including a first locking member (131) mounted proximate to the trigger member (130) and a second locking member (121) mounted proximate to the electrical switch housing (120), and a lock-off mechanism including a lock-off member (132) disposed on the trigger member (130); the lock-on mechanism and the lock-off mechanism being separate and independently operable of each other. A locking system for use with a trigger assembly (100) of an electrical device.