Chain Lock Fixing Pin Segmentation Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing chain lock designs are complex in operation and difficult to release, lacking simplicity and ease of use while providing effective locking and unlocking mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A chain lock design featuring U-shaped link brackets with a locking element comprising two modules secured by a screw and at least one fixing pin, which allows axial guidance during insertion and prevents displacement in the locked state, utilizing a self-locking nut and offset fixing pins for secure assembly and easy disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional chain lock designs are used with multiple security modules and pins, then the locking function is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and difficult to release

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking element is divided into two locking modules that can be inserted from opposite sides, with the fixing pin segmented to engage with both modules. This segmentation allows independent insertion while achieving unified locking function, simplifying the operational sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing pin is extracted as a separate, prominent component that protrudes from the locking module, making it easily accessible for operation. This extraction allows the user to grip and manipulate the pin directly for releasing the lock, simplifying the release operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If locking modules are inserted from opposite sides, then the locking structure is strengthened, but alignment and insertion become difficult in dirty or misaligned conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking structureVSAvoidinsertion difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing pin acts as an intermediary element that bridges the two locking modules. By providing a guided insertion path and engagement feature, it mediates the alignment between modules, allowing them to be inserted from opposite sides even with some misalignment or contamination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The design creates equipotential conditions for insertion by ensuring both locking modules have identical engagement features and the fixing pin provides symmetric guidance. This allows either module to be inserted first without affecting the overall locking reliability, accommodating misaligned insertion scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Reliability

If a screw connection is used to secure locking modules, then the locking is secure, but disassembly requires tools and becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoiddisassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The screw connection is extracted and replaced with a fixing pin that can be manually manipulated. This extraction eliminates the need for specialized tools during assembly and disassembly, while the pin's protruding design ensures secure engagement through the locking modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing pin is designed to be self-sufficient for both securing and releasing the locking modules. Its protruding end allows direct manual operation for release, and its engagement geometry ensures automatic securing when modules are inserted, eliminating the need for separate tool-based operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3449155B1Chain lock
Publication Date: 2020.03.11 THIELE GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3449155B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1f
  • EP3449155B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3449155B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a chain lock (1) having two link bows (2, 3), which can be coupled by means of the legs (4) thereof, and having a locking element (14), which can be inserted between the legs (4), wherein the locking element (14) is formed by two locking components (15, 16), which can be inserted from opposite sides and which are secured by a screw (22), which extends through the locking components in the transverse direction (Q) of the chain lock (1), characterized in that at least one fastening pin (18) is arranged in one locking component (15), said fastening pin protruding from an end face (17) in the transverse direction (Q), and that the fastening pin (18) engages in a cut-out (19) in the opposite locking component (16).