detent

/di'tent/

Thân thiện

A mechanic uses a detent to lock the gear in place.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanical device that temporarily stops or locks movement: A "detent" is a small, often spring-loaded component in a mechanism that engages with notches or holes to hold parts in a specific position, allowing controlled, step-by-step movement or preventing unwanted motion.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The rotary switch clicks into each position because of a small ball bearing acting as a detent.
  • The engineer adjusted the detent on the ratchet to ensure the gear would not slip backward.

Advanced Usage

• In engineering contexts: The term is highly specific to mechanical design and control systems.
  • The detent mechanism provides tactile feedback and positional accuracy in the selector valve.

Variants and Related Words

• Detent mechanism (noun phrase): A system employing a detent.
  • The camera's mode dial uses a precise detent mechanism.
• Detented (adjective): Fitted with or operating by a detent.
  • The detented knob ensures stable settings.

Synonyms

• Catch: A device for securing motion.
• Pawl: A pivoted bar adapted to engage with the teeth of a ratchet wheel.
• Latch: A fastening or locking device.

Related Phrases

• Detent torque (noun phrase): In stepper motors, the torque needed to move the rotor from a stationary position without energizing the coils.
  • The motor's detent torque helps hold the position when power is off.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a hinged catch that fits into a notch of a ratchet to move a wheel forward or prevent it from moving backward

Từ đồng nghĩa

• pawl
• click
• dog