Compact Interlocking Cabinet Lock for Doorless Shared Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage cabinet locks are unsuitable for open storage systems without doors and are too large for limited spaces, lacking a suitable mechanism for interlocking with each other, which poses a security risk for storing valuable items.
Innovation Solution
A compact storage cabinet lock system featuring a lock body with a locking piece and a locking and unlocking assembly, including electronic actuators, rotating members, and torsion springs, allowing for double locking and mutual locking between adjacent locks, controlled by an electronic switch for secure and space-efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lock is installed on an open storage cabinet without a cabinet door, then the lock size becomes large and occupies excessive space, but the locking function cannot be achieved in limited installation spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The lock body is divided into separate functional modules: a mounting plate for installation, a casing containing the locking mechanism, and a locking piece that extends outward. This segmentation allows the lock to be installed in limited spaces while maintaining full locking functionality through the extendable locking piece.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking piece is designed to extend laterally from the lock body in a direction perpendicular to the mounting plate, utilizing the third dimension (depth) rather than increasing the footprint area. This allows the lock to function in cabinets with limited front-to-back space while occupying minimal installation area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional locks are used in open storage cabinets, then each lock operates independently, but the ability to interlock with adjacent locks is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The lock body incorporates a universal interface with a locking piece that can engage with adjacent locks through notches and protrusions. This allows any lock in the series to function both as a standalone unit and as part of an interlocked system, providing multi-functionality without requiring different lock types.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking piece acts as an intermediary element that physically connects adjacent locks through complementary notches and protrusions. When extended, it engages with the corresponding features on neighboring locks, creating a mechanical interlock that secures multiple cabinet sections simultaneously without adding complex control mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact lock design is used to save space, then the locking mechanism becomes simpler, but the security for valuable items is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a nested structure where the locking piece is housed within the compact lock body and can extend outward when needed. The locking piece contains hooks that engage with notches on adjacent locks, creating a secure mechanical interlock despite the compact overall size of the lock body.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking piece incorporates curved hooks and notched engagement features that provide mechanical advantage and resistance to forced entry. The curved geometry of the hooks allows them to deflect and absorb force while maintaining engagement with the notches on adjacent locks, enhancing security within the compact design.
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
The solution provides a secure, compact, and easy-to-operate locking mechanism that spans multiple frames, ensuring secure storage while occupying minimal space, with the ability to be controlled locally or networked for intelligent locking and unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
The first torsion spring is sleeved on the first shaft. One end of the first torsion spring is fixedly connected to the casing. Another end of the first torsion spring is fixedly connected to the first rotating member.
Implementation Method 2
The second torsion spring is sleeved on the second shaft. One end of the second torsion spring is fixedly connected to the casing. Another end of the second torsion spring is fixedly connected to the second rotating member.
Data Source
AI summary
A shared storage cabinet and a lock thereof are disclosed. The shared storage cabinet includes a cabinet body and a lock installed on the cabinet body. The cabinet body is divided into a plurality of cells by means of a frame thereof. The cabinet lock includes a lock body, a locking piece and a locking and unlocking assembly. The lock body is laterally inserted into and fixed within the frame of the cabinet body. The locking and unlocking assembly is disposed within the lock body. One end of the locking piece is pivotally connected to one side of the lock body, while the other end of the locking piece rotates about the end thereof to achieve locking/unlocking in cooperation with the locking and unlocking assembly of another adjacent cabinet lock on the frame.