Key-Operated Rotor Locking Mechanism for Computer Casing Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for desktop computer casings, such as those using simple padlocks, lack sophistication and security, making them inadequate for modern security needs.
Innovation Solution
A locking device featuring a block-shaped housing with a key-operated rotor and a slidable locking element that, upon rotation, extends across a cavity to secure ear-like extensions on the container, providing enhanced security and user-friendliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple padlock is used to lock computer casing, then the device complexity is low, but the security and sophistication are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into distinct functional segments: a housing containing the locking mechanism, a separate locking element that extends through the casing, and ear-like extensions that receive the locking element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be dynamically extendable and retractable rather than fixed. It can slide linearly within the housing to transition between locked and unlocked states, providing adaptive security response while maintaining a compact form factor when retracted.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional padlock with key is used, then the ease of operation is moderate, but the user-friendliness and sophistication are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically performs the locking action when the locking element is extended. The ear-like extensions guide and position the locking element, and the mechanism self-engages without requiring manual manipulation of separate components, making operation intuitive and user-friendly.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional padlock mechanism is replaced with a linear sliding locking element system actuated by rotational input. This substitution provides smoother operation and more precise control while reducing the mechanical complexity associated with traditional hasp and shackle systems.
3Reliability
If the locking element extends across the cavity to lock both ears, then the security is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing and locking element are integrated into a single unified structure where the locking element is contained within and guided by the housing. This merging reduces the number of separate external components while maintaining the security function of locking both ear-like extensions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is nested within the housing when retracted, and the ear-like extensions are positioned to receive the locking element when extended. This nested arrangement allows the locking mechanism to maintain a compact form factor while providing extended security coverage when activated.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device for box-shaped containers (20) having a base and a separable cover each provided with an ear-like extension (20c; 20d) with openings, wherein in the lockable position the openings are in register one with respect to the other. The device comprises a block-shaped housing (10) with a key-operated mechanism (30) comprising a rotor. A slidable locking element is coupled to the rotor so that upon rotation of the rotor by 180° in one or the opposite directions by turning the key, a locking element slides over a certain distance in one or the opposite directions. A cavity is formed in the housing configured to accommodate therein both ear-like extensions (20c; 20d). For locking the container, the locking element is driven in the direction of and across the cavity and openings.