Unlocking Mechanism Layout for Thin Retaining Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing unlocking devices, such as those described in Patent Literature 1, suffer from increased thickness due to the protruding retaining structure of the rotating member, which compromises their compactness.
Innovation Solution
The proposed unlocking device incorporates a rotating member with a pressed portion and a retaining portion, supported by a housing with an engaging portion, where the retaining and engaging portions are strategically located within the thickness range of the operating member, preventing the structure from protruding and thus reducing the overall thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the retaining structure of the rotating member protrudes above the rotation plane, then the rotating member can be reliably retained and held with respect to the case member, but the thickness of the unlocking device is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining portion of the rotating member is nested within the thickness range of the operating member, with the engaging portion formed on the inner wall of the accommodating portion. This nesting arrangement allows the retaining structure to be embedded within the existing component thickness rather than protruding outward, thereby maintaining reliable retention while reducing the overall thickness of the unlocking device.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining structure transitions from a protruding three-dimensional configuration to a planar configuration within the thickness range of the operating member. By positioning both the retaining portion and engaging portion within the same thickness dimension, the design eliminates the need for additional protruding structures, effectively reducing device thickness while maintaining functional integrity.
2Length of stationary object
If the retaining portion and engaging portion are positioned within the thickness range of the operating member, then the thickness of the unlocking device is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging portion is formed integrally on the inner wall of the accommodating portion, serving dual functions as both a structural support element and a retention mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate retaining components, reducing structural complexity while achieving the thickness reduction goal through the strategic positioning of the retaining and engaging portions within the operating member's thickness range.
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
This configuration allows for a significant reduction in the thickness of the unlocking device while maintaining its operational effectiveness, thereby enhancing its compactness and usability in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to rotationally bias the rotating member. The operating member is biased in a direction protruding from the opening by a rotational biasing force from the pressed portion being applied to the pressing portion
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an unlocking device, including: a rotating member; a housing; an operating member; and a biasing member. The rotating member includes a pressed portion, and a retaining portion. The housing includes an accommodating portion, an engaging portion that is engaged with the retaining portion, and an opening. The operating member includes a pressing portion, and is slidable in a direction substantially parallel to a rotation plane of the rotating member. The retaining portion and the engaging portion are located within a thickness range of the operating member when viewed in a sliding direction of the operating member.