Wedged Friction Locking Structure for Movable Body Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking apparatuses face challenges in preventing relative movement between different members at any position other than a fixed point, leading to increased free play and complexity in structure due to the need for separate locking parts and coupling structures.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus comprising a first body part, a second body part, a locking unit that moves between them to generate friction and prevent movement, and an unlocking unit that pushes the locking unit to release the lock, allowing relative movement by increasing the interval between the body parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connection member is used to connect different members to prevent relative movement, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated due to separate locking parts and coupling structures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit integrates multiple functions into a single component that can prevent relative movement between different members. The locking unit includes a locking protrusion that engages with a locking groove, combining the connection and locking functions in one structure rather than requiring separate locking parts and coupling structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit is designed to work with different members (first member and second member) through a universal engagement mechanism. The elastic member can engage with various groove configurations, and the unlocking unit can release the locking state in multiple directions, making the system adaptable to different locking scenarios without requiring member-specific designs.
2Reliability
If separate locking parts and coupling structures are used to prevent relative movement, then the locking performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit combines the locking protrusion, elastic member, and engagement mechanism into a single integrated component. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining reliable locking performance through the coordinated action of these integrated elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit is disposed within the first member, with the locking protrusion extending toward the second member. The elastic member is nested within the locking unit, and the unlocking unit is integrated into the same structure. This nested arrangement reduces overall complexity while maintaining functional integrity.
3Reliability
If a locking unit is used to prevent relative movement through friction, then the locking performance is improved, but the structure requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit integrates the friction-based locking mechanism with the elastic member and unlocking unit in a single structure. The locking protrusion engages with the locking groove through friction, while the elastic member provides the necessary force, and the unlocking unit releases the lock, all within one integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member automatically engages the locking protrusion with the locking groove without requiring external actuation. The friction between the locking surfaces maintains the locked state, and the system self-regulates the locking force through the elastic deformation of the member, reducing the need for additional control components.
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 effectively prevents relative movement between the body parts through frictional force and selectively releases the locking state, improving locking performance and reducing complexity by allowing movement at any position without fixed constraints.
Implementation Method 1
when the locking unit simultaneously contacts the first body part and the second body part, a movement of the second body part with respect to the first body part in at least one direction is prevented
Implementation Method 2
an elastic member connected to the first body part, having elastic resilience, and pushing the contact part in a direction in which the interval between the first body part and the second body part decreases
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a locking apparatus, and more particularly, to a locking apparatus with improved locking performance as a locking unit is stuck between different members capable of moving relative to each other and in which locking is released as an unlocking unit pushes the locking unit.