Rotatable Barrel Lock for Keyless Insertion Through Multiple Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for utility services, such as electric, gas, and water meter boxes, require keys for installation and key management, which can lead to security issues and inefficiencies in installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A keyless insertion rotatable disk style barrel lock that allows for secure installation and operation without a key, featuring a locking mechanism with rotating elements and biasing members that enable the lock to pass through multiple apertures and secure in place without the need for a key, providing enhanced security and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional keyed locking system is used, then security control is maintained through key access, but installation complexity increases and key management becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the key element from the locking system entirely. The lock is designed to be installed in a locked state without requiring a key for insertion. The key is extracted from the installation process, eliminating key management complexity while maintaining security through the locked-state insertion mechanism and controlled removal process.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional locks are installed in an unlocked state and then locked using a key. This invention inverts the process by designing the lock to be inserted while already in the locked state, and then unlocked through a controlled mechanism. This inversion eliminates the need for key-based installation while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If a keyed locking system is used, then security control is maintained, but installation time increases due to key management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is prepared in advance in its locked state before installation. The locking mechanism is pre-configured and set to the locked position, so that during installation, the lock simply needs to be inserted into the aperture. This preliminary preparation eliminates the time-consuming key insertion and locking steps during actual installation, while maintaining security control through the pre-set locked state.
3Reliability
If a traditional barrel lock is used, then locking security is provided, but the locking mechanism requires multiple steps including unlocking and re-locking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the key-operated unlocking step from the traditional locking mechanism. Instead of requiring unlock-lock cycles, the system uses a controlled removal mechanism where the lock is extracted through a specific process. This extraction mechanism replaces the complex key-based unlocking operation, maintaining locking security while simplifying the overall mechanism.
4Reliability
If key management is centralized, then security is improved, but installation flexibility decreases due to key distribution requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is designed to be self-sufficient during installation, requiring no external key management infrastructure. The lock installs itself in a locked state through simple insertion, and security is maintained through the inherent locked-state design and controlled removal process. This self-service capability eliminates key distribution requirements while maintaining both security and installation flexibility across multiple locations.
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
The solution simplifies the installation process, enhances key management and security by eliminating the need for keys, and allows for secure operation of locking devices in various configurations, including utility meter boxes and rings, while preventing unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to exert a force on the locking element to bias the locking element toward the locked position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention, in a non-limiting example embodiment provides a locking apparatus and method for securing locking hardware without the use of a key. In an example embodiment, the apparatus comprises at least a keyless insertion rotatable disk-style, barrel locking apparatus that, in a locked state can be inserted into a securing device without first unlocking, and then, thereafter, locking after insertion. In a nonlimiting example embodiment, unlocking and re-locking requires a key. The present invention, in an example embodiment, also provides features that allow the locking apparatus to enter and exit multiple apertures without requiring a key.