Force / Torque Release Pivot

[Syncro5]

Hi all,

I'm currently designing a system where by the following would be very useful:

A pivot which remains in a "locked" position until a torque setting is over come, releasing the lock allowing the pivot to move freely. (See attached image).

Has anyone come across anything like this before? Any potential leads would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Joe.

 

[Compositepro]

A spring loaded ball detent?

 

[Syncro5]

Brilliant idea I'll consider that! I was thinking last night and the system could also be made to work with a similar linear style of device. Like a small spring with a blow-off valve which remains rigid until a certain force is applied. Is anyone aware of any standard components which may be suitable?

Thanks,

Joe.

 

[MikeHalloran]

Bewildering array here:

http://www.reidsupply.com/products/tooling-components/spring-loaded-devices/threaded-ball-plungers/

You also need a detent:

http://www.reidsupply.com/products/...g-loaded-devices/plunger-accessories/detents/

I've lost track of the number of otherwise good designers who decided to save money by homebrewing this stuff. The results were uniformly awful. There are a lot of ways to screw up what looks like a simple mechanism.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA