Combination Lock Seal Mechanism for Fabric Security Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security containers with key-operated locks face challenges in rekeying and securing combinations for combination-operated locks, as they require unique housings and components, and lack a solution for preventing unauthorized combination changes.
Innovation Solution
A combination-operated lock for flexible fabric security containers with rotatable dials that require a one-use seal to be broken before unlocking, and a lockout mechanism to prevent combination changes without a specialized tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If key-operated locks are used on security containers, then the locks can be rekeyed when lost or compromised, but the keys must be securely stored and managed, and rekeying requires taking the container out of service
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces key-operated mechanical locks with combination-operated locks. The combination lock uses a dial mechanism with numbered positions that can be set to different combinations, eliminating the need for physical keys and keyboards. This substitution maintains security while improving ease of operation by eliminating key management responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination lock allows the user to change the combination code without requiring external assistance or taking the container out of service. The user can simply turn the dial to new number sequences to rekey the lock, making the security system self-servicing and eliminating the need for key custody and rekeying procedures.
2Ease of operation
If combination-operated locks are used on security containers, then key management is eliminated, but the locks require differently sized and configured housings and components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a combination lock mechanism that can be integrated into existing key lock housings, making the lock system universal. The combination lock uses the same basic housing structure as key locks, allowing it to be installed in existing security containers without requiring completely new housing configurations. This multi-functionality approach maintains ease of operation while reducing device complexity.
3Ease of repair
If combination-operated locks are used on security containers, then rekeying is simplified, but the combinations must be changed only when unlocked and containers must be open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a seal that is attached to the lock housing before the container is put into service. This pre-applied seal remains in place during normal use and transport, and only needs to be removed or broken when the container is opened for the first time. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex combination change procedures while maintaining security, as the seal prevents unauthorized access regardless of the combination setting.
4Reliability
If one-use seals are used on combination locks, then unauthorized seal replacement is prevented, but the seals must be broken and removed to unlock the container
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a seal as an intermediary element between the lock mechanism and the container opening. The seal is attached to the lock housing and serves as a mediator that must be broken or removed before the container can be opened. This intermediary seal provides an additional security layer that prevents unauthorized access while maintaining the ease of operation for authorized users, as the seal is designed to be easily broken or removed when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination operated lock for use with a security container that has a zippered closure operated by a pull tab movable between open and closed positions, with the lock being operable, when locked, to retain the pull tab in closed position until the lock is unlocked by setting a combination. The lock preferably has a housing connected to a flexible fabric wall of the security container, and dials that are turned to set a combination for unlocking the lock. In some embodiments, the lock cannot be unlocked unless and until a one-use seal is broken and removed from the housing to which the seal was attachable only after the lock was locked.