New Locking Device for Sliding Assemblies
Page 40
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
ADEVICE known as the Slide-Lock, which has recently become available in this cpuntry, offers a new means for controlling adjustable sliding assemblies. Among its possible applications in the road transport field would be to sliding . and half-drop windows, adjustable columns for drivers' seats and hand brakes. The particular design has already had great success in America.
The unlocking action is immediate and the locking action is automatic at any desired point within the range of travel Road shocks tend to improve the grip. The Slide-Lock unit consists of a channel-section runner across which a thin, flexible. metal ribbon runs diagonally. On each of the ribbon is a wedge, the two wedges being linked together
by a light spring. Control is by means of studs or other devices attached to the wedges, and the lockihg action takes place as the result of force being exerted on either of the wedges in the direction of the metal ribbon, the pressure forcing the wedges together and causing them to lock on the sides of the channel runner... Pressure on one wedge, in the opposite 'direction, decrease.; the force within the channel
B6
so that the assembly can move freely. In this way a vehicle window automatically stops in the position in which it is set when the studs, or catches, are released; downward pressure applied to the lower stud immediately frees the action for movement, once again locking takes place on release. Slide-Lock assemblies can be employed in tubular form in which a variety of 'uses will immediately become apparent. They could, for example, be used in the columns of a driver's seat to present a ready means for adjustment. By the incorporation of a compensating spring such seats could be adjusted even when the driver was in a sitting position. Two kind:, of units are being manufactured, the Positive Lock and the Pressure Lock, the former having triggers or buttons to produce the adjusting action, whilst with the tatter, movement is carried out simply by exerting a slight pressure on the assembly itself.
Further details can be obtained on application to the manufacturer of the device, Slide-Lock. Ltd. 177, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, 4.