Quick-change cylinder lock uses internal sensor to determine locked/unlocked status

Tooling Technology in Fort Loramie, Ohio has added a new product to its line of Segen quick-change cylinder locks for tooling and mold changes.

Used as an alternative to traditional nuts and bolts to locate and lock tools, jigs, and fixtures in place without requiring tools, the enhanced version of the quick-change product uses an internal sensor to provide a visual method of determining whether the mechanism is locked or unlocked.

The quick-change device comprises a steel cylinder lock and a corresponding knob. The lock, designed to receive and mate with a conical male knob, locates and positions the knob to within 0.0002 in. with a holding force up to 25,000 lbs. per device, depending on cylinder specifications. Positively locked in a static state, the cylinder lock actuates when air pressure is applied to release or receive the knob. The lock stays mechanically locked until pneumatic pressure is applied to release it automatically, providing a secure, fail-safe hold even if pneumatic pressure is lost, the company reports.

Applications include robotics, appliances, medical equipment, automation, windows, aerospace, welding, automotive, tool making, electronics, and metals.