Adjustable Closure Locking Mechanism for Variable Frame Depths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for doors and windows require multiple sizes to accommodate different closure dimensions, posing a challenge for replacing worn or damaged mechanisms without replacing the entire closure.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a gear arrangement that is adjustable between two or more positions, allowing the spacing between components to be adjusted to fit different sizes, featuring a moveable gear secured to a second supporting arm via couplers, enabling linear movement and alignment with an operating handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a locking mechanism is designed with a fixed gear arrangement size, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but it cannot accommodate different closure sizes (20mm and 22mm depths)
Solution Approach 1:
The gear arrangement is made dynamically adjustable between fixed positions. The moveable portion of the second supporting arm can be repositioned along the first supporting arm to different locations, and secured at each position using the coupler mechanism. This allows the locking mechanism to adapt to different closure depths (20mm or 22mm) while maintaining structural integrity through the coupler-based securing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The second supporting arm is divided into a fixed portion and a moveable portion that can be independently positioned. The coupler acts as a separate securing component that can be engaged at different positions along the first supporting arm. This segmentation allows the gear arrangement to be adjusted to different depths without redesigning the entire locking mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking mechanism sizes are produced, then different closure sizes can be accommodated, but inventory complexity and replacement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single locking mechanism design incorporates the capability to serve multiple functions by accommodating both 20mm and 22mm closure depths. The adjustable gear arrangement allows one mechanism type to replace what would traditionally require two different mechanism sizes, simplifying inventory management and replacement procedures while maintaining compatibility with different closure types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the gear arrangement is made adjustable between multiple positions, then a single mechanism type can fit various closure sizes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gear arrangement transitions from a fixed to a dynamically adjustable configuration. The moveable portion can be repositioned along the first supporting arm and secured at different positions using the coupler mechanism, enabling the same basic mechanism to adapt to different closure depths without requiring multiple specialized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary component that facilitates the adjustment and securing of the moveable portion at different positions. This intermediary element enables the gear arrangement to be repositioned and fixed at various locations along the first supporting arm, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables a single locking mechanism to fit various closure sizes, simplifying replacements and reducing the need for multiple sizes, enhancing versatility and ease of installation.
Implementation Method 1
turning or otherwise acting on the handle may cause rotation of the gear mechanism. This is translated into linear movement (e.g. sliding) of the second supporting arm along the first supporting arm to move the cams
Data Source
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Figure 4A~4B
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AI summary
A locking mechanism for a closure, which includes: a gear arrangement; a first supporting arm; a second supporting arm comprising a moveable portion; and one or more couplers. The moveable portion of the second supporting arm is mounted to the first supporting arm via the one or more couplers. The gear arrangement is secured, mounted or otherwise coupled to the moveable portion of the second supporting arm and is moveable, in use, between two or more positions to adjust the spacing between the gear arrangement and the first supporting arm.