Cathode Lock Switching Between Normally-Open and Closed States

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cathode locks cannot efficiently switch between normally-opened and normally-closed states, leading to increased production costs due to the need for different lock types to meet varying usage requirements.

Innovation Solution

A cathode lock design incorporating a solenoid, breaking apparatus, and adjustable breaking block that uses electromagnetic force to abut or separate from a lock catch, allowing for seamless switching between states via an electromagnetic force-driven mechanism and adjustable fastening screws.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different types of locks are designed to meet varying usage requirements (normally-opened vs normally-closed states), then the lock can meet specific operational needs, but the production cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to meet varying usage requirementsVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The cathode lock is designed with a breaking apparatus that can be adjusted between different positions to enable the lock to function in both normally-opened and normally-closed states. This multi-functionality allows a single lock design to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized lock types, thereby reducing production costs while maintaining adaptability to different operational requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If a single cathode lock design is used for all applications, then the production cost decreases, but the lock cannot adapt to different operational needs (normally-opened vs normally-closed states)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction costVSAvoidability to switch between states
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The breaking apparatus is designed with adjustable components that can be dynamically repositioned along the lock mechanism. This dynamic adjustability allows the same physical lock to be configured for different operational modes (normally-opened or normally-closed) without requiring separate lock designs, thus maintaining low production costs while achieving high adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If the breaking apparatus is fixed in position, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the lock cannot switch between normally-opened and normally-closed states

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidswitching capability between states
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The breaking apparatus is segmented into adjustable components that can be independently positioned and fixed at different locations along the lock mechanism. This segmentation allows the breaking block to be placed at specific positions to achieve either normally-opened or normally-closed functionality, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while enabling state switching capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 cost-effective and efficient switching between normally-opened and normally-closed states, enhancing the utilization rate and reducing production costs by allowing a single lock to adapt to different operational needs.

Implementation Method 1

A solenoid 9 capable of generating an electromagnetic force when electrified is also mounted on the lock body 1. The solenoid 9 is electrified to generate the electromagnetic force, and the breaking apparatus 10 is driven into motion under the effect of the electromagnetic force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10519695B2Cathode lock and method allowing the cathode lock to switch between normally-opened state and normally-closed state
Publication Date: 2019.12.31 SHANGHAI ONE TOP
  • US10519695B2 patent drawing
  • US10519695B2 patent drawing
  • US10519695B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cathode lock comprising: a lock body 1 mounted on a door or on a door frame and a lock tongue capable of locking with the lock body 1. A lock catch 6 capable of locking with the lock tongue is arranged on the lock body 1. A solenoid 9 capable of generating an electromagnetic force when electrified is also mounted on the lock body 1. A breaking apparatus 10 capable of jamming the lock catch is connected to one end of the solenoid 9. The solenoid 9 is electrified to generate the electromagnetic force, and the breaking apparatus 10 is driven into motion under the effect of the electromagnetic force, thus allowing the breaking apparatus 10 to either be abutted against or separated from the lock catch 6. Also disclosed is a method for cathode lock to switch between a normally-opened state and a normally-closed stated.