Articulated Chain Lock Structure for Flexible Secure Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chain locks for two-wheelers lack flexibility and security, particularly in confined spaces, due to rigid latch elements and limited adjustability of the lock structure.
Innovation Solution
A chain lock design featuring a serial arrangement of links coupled via articulated joints, allowing for pivoting about parallel joint axes, and a lock body with a locking receiver that secures an articulated joint, enabling adjustable length and enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid latch element is used, then security against breaking open is improved, but flexibility and adaptability to different positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch element is divided into multiple rigid links that are coupled together via articulated joints. Each link maintains its rigidity for security, while the joints provide flexibility. This segmentation allows the latch element to be both strong and adaptable to different positions and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch element transitions from a completely rigid structure to a dynamic articulated structure. The articulated joints enable the rigid links to pivot relative to each other, allowing the latch element to adapt its shape and position dynamically while maintaining the strength of individual links.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible latch element like rope or cable is used, then adaptability to different positions is improved, but security against separation and breaking open deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single flexible element, the latch is segmented into multiple rigid links connected by joints. This segmentation provides both the flexibility needed for adaptability and the structural integrity required for security against breaking and separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch element combines rigid materials (for strength and security) with articulated joint mechanisms (for flexibility). This composite structure integrates the advantages of both rigid and flexible elements, achieving security comparable to rigid locks while maintaining the adaptability of flexible latches.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the latch element is made long to increase flexibility, then adaptability to different positions is improved, but the risk of free spaces that could be exploited during break-open attempts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The long latch element is divided into multiple segments (links) connected by joints. This segmentation allows the latch to conform to complex shapes and fill spaces more effectively, reducing gaps and free spaces that could be exploited during break-open attempts while maintaining the necessary length for adaptability.
4Weight of moving object
If individual jointed bars are used to form a compact package, then weight is reduced, but the ability to be folded compactly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated joints enable the rigid links to pivot and fold relative to each other, allowing the latch element to be collapsed into a compact package for transport and storage. This dynamic capability is maintained while using rigid links that keep the weight low compared to solid rigid bars.
Data Source
AI summary
A chain lock, in particular for a two-wheeler, comprises a lock body and a chain. The chain comprises a serial arrangement of consecutive links that are coupled to one another via a respective articulated joint between one another and that can be pivoted relative to one another about a joint axis, which is in parallel with a normal direction, of the respective articulated joint. The lock body has a locking receiver, which is configured to receive one of the articulated joints, and comprises a locking mechanism by means of which the articulated joint received in the locking receiver can be secured against a departure from the locking receiver.