Combination Lock Assembly Keyless Access Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hockey locks require multiple keys, which are cumbersome and inconvenient, especially in dark areas, and pose security risks if lost or copied.
Innovation Solution
A hockey lock with a combination lock assembly that includes a cylindrical housing, a combination unit with number disks, and a cam mechanism, allowing users to set and change combinations without carrying keys, enhancing security and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional hockey lock with keys is used, then the lock can be operated with a key, but the managers have to carry multiple keys which are heavy and occupy space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical keys with a combination code system. Instead of carrying multiple physical keys, users memorize a combination sequence (e.g., 3-7-2) that operates the lock mechanism, eliminating the need to carry and manage multiple key copies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical key-insertion system with a combination dial mechanism. The lock uses a rotary code input system with corresponding cam pins and latches that mechanically translate the combination sequence into unlocking action, replacing the traditional key-hole insertion mechanism
2Reliability
If multiple keys are used for multiple doors, then each door can be locked, but the correct key has to be identified from multiple keys which is inconvenient especially in dark area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical key identification with a memorized combination code. Users recall the specific sequence (e.g., 3-7-2) needed to unlock each door, eliminating the need to visually identify and physically handle multiple keys in dark environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a combination code as an intermediary between the user and the lock mechanism. Instead of directly manipulating physical keys, users input a numerical sequence that the lock system translates into mechanical unlocking action, providing a cognitive intermediary that simplifies the operation
3Ease of operation
If the key hole faces the door or container, then the lock can be operated, but the hockey lock has to be pivoted an angle and the correct key has to be inserted correctly which is inconvenient in dark area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the precise key insertion mechanism with a rotational code input mechanism. Instead of requiring exact key alignment in a keyhole, users rotate a dial to input a combination sequence, which the system then translates into the appropriate mechanical unlocking action through cam pins and latches
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static key insertion process into a dynamic rotational sequence. The combination lock requires a series of rotational movements in specific sequences (e.g., clockwise 3, counter-clockwise 7, clockwise 2) rather than a single precise insertion, making the operation more adaptable to different lighting conditions
4Ease of operation
If a combination lock assembly is added to the hockey lock, then the key carrying inconvenience is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the combination lock mechanism into the existing hockey lock body, making the lock system multi-functional. The same housing and basic locking structure accommodate both the combination input mechanism and the traditional locking action, allowing one device to perform multiple functions without requiring separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the combination lock mechanism within the existing hockey lock structure. The combination dial, cam pins, and latches are integrated into the hollow cylindrical body and base plate of the hockey lock, with components nested within each other (e.g., cam pins fitting into recesses in the base plate, latches positioned within the housing)
Data Source
AI summary
A lock includes a housing in which a combination lock is received. The combination lock is unlocked when the combination unit of the combination lock is located at an unlocked position. The combination lock has a cam pin which is operated when the combination lock is unlocked and locked. A button is pushed to drive a cam which is located beside the combination lock. When the combination lock is locked, the cam pin is connected to the restriction hole to restrict the cam, and the latch is in its locked status. When the combination lock is unlocked, the cam pin is removed from the restriction hole. When the button is pushed, the cam is rotated to release the latch from the room of the housing. The combination of the combination lock can be changed by operating the operation bar when the combination lock is unlocked.