Gravity Mechanism: Examples and Possibilities

[Technohedge]

TL;DR Summary

Mechanism that is gravity operated but immune to other inertial effects

Hi Guys, I have a specific mechanism problem I am trying to solve. I can't divulge the specific application, however I am looking for examples of where this has been done in the past (or if this is even possible in peoples opinions).I have a mechanism that employs a weighted pendulum type component that swings about a pivot. When the unit it attaches to is orientated vertically the pendulum swings into place and acts as a blocker for another lever.When the unit is orientated horizontally the weight swings out of the way, allowing the lever to be moved. Its basically a gravity driven blocking mechanism.The issue is that when the unit is orientated vertically and blocking the required lever,when the unit is moved around, (forwards or downwards) the weighted pendulum swings in the opposite direction as it pivots, thus removing the blocking function.I have tried all sorts of slots and flats on the shaft that the weight pivots on to try and lock the weight when its in position, however it affects its ability to move out of that position when needed.Has anyone witnessed such a mechanism working in industry? Or if its even possible?

 

[Rive]

Summary: Mechanism that is gravity operated but immune to other inertial effects

As far as I understand your question any mentioned 'inertial effect' will work the same as gravity: without external reference there is no way to distinguish.
Maybe you can try to make the application direction-sensitive: a good gyroscope can 'remember' a direction so it can be be used as a reference somehow.

 

[anorlunda]

I can't visualize what you're asking about. It sounds like a mobile pendulum clock. Can you post a sketch?

 

[some bloke]

Does the application require that the lever is pulled quickly - if not then you could try adding something to slow the pendulums movement to the point where it takes 1-2 seconds for it to move from closed to open - it would have to be accelerated to 43 miles per hour in 2 seconds to imitate gravity in this case.

Does the application require that the mechanism is placed on it's side to work? If so you could feature a latch which holds the pendulum whilst in transit and then is released when the mechanism is placed on a surface on it's side.

Is the application hand-held, and simply needs to confirm that you're holding it the right way up? If so then a button the user presses to free the pendulum could be an option, so that it doesn't swing in transit. This way the operator would have to be going out of their way to do it wrong!

 

[anorlunda]

but immune to other inertial effects

You realize of course that such immunity doesn't really exist.