Buckle Lock with Self-Actuating Latch for Immediate Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buckle locks require the lock mechanism to be in an unlocked state for detachment and relocking, which can be inconvenient and vulnerable to code or password exposure, as users must set the correct code or turn the key to relock the units.
Innovation Solution
A buckle lock design with a lock mechanism that can change between locked and unlocked states, featuring a release button and movable latch system, allowing the lock member to be inserted and locked into the buckle base without needing to set the correct code or password, enabling immediate locking even when the mechanism is in a locked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lock mechanism requires to be in unlocked state for detachment and relocking, then the lock units can be properly detached and relocked, but the operation becomes inconvenient and time-consuming requiring code setting or key turning
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is pre-positioned in a locked state by the elastic member, so that when the insert portion is inserted into the slot, the locking action is automatically completed without requiring any additional code setting or key turning operations. The preliminary positioning of the latch enables immediate locking upon insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism automatically completes the locking action when the insert portion is inserted into the slot, without requiring user intervention to set codes or turn keys. The elastic member-driven latch self-activates the locking function, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for manual code entry or key manipulation.
2Reliability
If the combination lock requires code setting before locking, then the lock can be secured, but the code or password may be spied on by someone with intentions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the code-setting function from the locking process. Instead of requiring the user to input or turn a key visible to others, the lock uses a mechanical latch system that automatically locks when the insert portion is inserted. This removes the vulnerable element (code or key) from the interaction, eliminating the risk of code spying while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates autonomously without requiring user input of codes or manipulation of keys that could be observed. The elastic member-driven latch automatically engages when the insert portion is inserted, creating a secure lock without any visible or audible code entry process that could be spied on.
3Productivity
If the lock mechanism automatically locks when insert portion is inserted, then the locking action is immediate and convenient, but the latch must be designed to work in both locked and unlocked states
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is designed as a movable component driven by an elastic member, allowing it to dynamically transition between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design enables the latch to automatically engage when the insert portion is inserted, achieving immediate locking while maintaining relatively simple mechanics through the elastic member's natural movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary element that stores mechanical energy and transfers it to the latch. This intermediary component simplifies the overall mechanism by using the elastic member's inherent properties to drive the locking action, avoiding the need for complex control systems while achieving reliable automatic locking.
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
Enhances operational ease and security by allowing immediate locking of the lock member into the buckle base without requiring correct code entry or key positioning, reducing the risk of code exposure and simplifying the locking process.
Implementation Method 1
a release button configured on the buckle base, pushed by a first elastic member to maintain in an ejected position
Implementation Method 2
The movable latch is pushed by a second elastic member and is normally maintained at a lock position for limiting the insert portion
Implementation Method 3
The positioning block has a linkage with the movable latch and is pushed by a third elastic member and kept in a push-out position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a buckle lock includes a lock member and a buckle base which are able to be inserted and locked to each other. The buckle base includes a lock portion and a release button, and the lock portion includes at least one locking mechanism. It is characterized in that when the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the lock member can still be inserted into the buckle base and the lock connection is completed immediately after completing the locking action.