this post was submitted on 06 Feb 2025
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What is this thing?

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Let us help you identify that mysterious object you’ve found.

Currently in CHALLENGE mode: If you've got something obscure knocking about, post a picture, and let's see how we do. Please prefix such posts with "CHALLENGE:" so we know we've got a fighting chance.

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Some light hints that may point you in the right direction:

Hint 1The assembly is a part of a larger machine.

Hint 2Several assemblies are meant to move side by side in unison.

Hint 3The square-ish shaped piece is plastic that will wear down and be replaced.

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[–] BradleyUffner@lemmy.world 5 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) (1 children)

I don't know what the right word is, but some sort of cam follower? The left part slides along the cam, raising and lowering the lever and applying torque to the right attachment point. There could be multiple cams and levers on the same shaft.

[–] Bubs@lemm.ee 4 points 1 week ago (1 children)

That's actually getting pretty close. The main difference is that the roles are reversed: The attachment point controls where the assembly goes.

[–] BradleyUffner@lemmy.world 2 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) (1 children)

So some sort of latch? The attached mechanism pushes this thing to the left, where it ramps up over something, then falls down to hook into place? I can't imagine what would need several of these working side by side in unison though.

Hmmm, no, the ramp is on the wrong side. Does it push something?

[–] Bubs@lemm.ee 1 points 1 week ago

Pushing is correct :)