Concealed Panel Locking Mechanism Using Magnetic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Columbaria structures face issues with single panel configurations that require removal of the entire panel to access individual niches, exposing other remains, and individual panel configurations have accessible securing mechanisms, compromising privacy and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A concealed panel locking mechanism using channels and a ferromagnetic locking member that can only be moved by a magnetic key, providing secure and hidden access to the panel, allowing individual panel access without visible mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single panel covers all niches, then the panel structure is simple and cost-effective, but the entire panel must be removed to access individual niches, exposing other remains and requiring additional curtains and setup time
Solution Approach 1:
The single panel is divided into multiple individual panels, each covering a specific niche. This segmentation allows each panel to be independently removed to access its corresponding niche, eliminating the need to remove the entire panel and exposing only the relevant niche rather than all niches.
2Ease of operation
If ornamental screw type fasteners are used to secure individual panels, then panel access is enabled, but the securing mechanisms are visible and accessible to unauthorized individuals, compromising privacy and security
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanism is extracted from the visible front surface and relocated to the rear of the panel. The recesses are formed in the rear surface of the panel, allowing the panel to be secured from behind rather than from the front, thereby eliminating visible and accessible fasteners while maintaining security and privacy.
3Device complexity
If a single large panel is used, then fewer components are needed, but the panel size makes it unwieldy for engraving and requires lower cost materials that are less aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The large single panel is segmented into multiple smaller individual panels. This reduction in panel size makes them easier to handle during engraving operations and allows the use of higher quality, more aesthetically pleasing materials such as marble or granite, while still providing complete coverage when all panels are assembled.
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 mechanism ensures secure, private access to niches, maintains aesthetic integrity by hiding locking mechanisms, and allows for easy engraving and handling of panels, preventing unauthorized access and external visibility of securing mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
A locking member within the one or more channels is movable along the channel in response to a magnetic force
Data Source
AI summary
A concealed panel locking mechanism is provided which may be used to secure the contents of a container in a manner that is not discernable to an uninformed individual viewing the container. In one exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism includes one or more channels formed into a central area of a panel of material. A locking member within the one or more channels is movable along the channel to either engage or disengage the locking member from a recess formed in a side wall of the container. In one embodiment, the locking member is not physically accessible from outside the channel by a human being but is formed from a ferromagnetic material that is moved within the channel by a magnetic force generated by a suitable strength magnetic key placed on the outside surface of the panel.