Construction Key Cylinder with Temporary Blocking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock cylinders pose security risks during construction due to the risk of key loss or theft, as keys are often installed and associated with locks before the building is completed, compromising security.
Innovation Solution
A filter lock cylinder design that includes a temporary blocking member to maintain keys in a position spaced from the outlet slot during construction, allowing a simplified 'site key' for installation while ensuring security, and reverting to coded key operation once construction is complete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If keys are installed and associated with locks during construction, then normal lock operation is enabled, but security is compromised due to risk of key loss or theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by installing a temporary blocking member (plug) in the outlet slot during construction to prevent coded keys from operating the lock. This allows simplified site keys to function while security is maintained through the blocking mechanism. After construction, the plug is removed to enable full security operation with coded keys only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the key operation into two distinct phases: construction phase with simplified site keys and blocking member, and operational phase with coded keys only. The outlet slot is divided into a functional passage for site keys and a blocked region for coded keys during construction, separating security concerns from operational needs.
2Reliability
If a temporary blocking member is added to the cylinder, then security during construction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a temporary blocking member (plug) that is simple, inexpensive, and intended for short-term use during construction only. This disposable-like component provides necessary security during the construction phase without requiring a complex permanent system, and is removed after construction completes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the security function into a separate removable blocking member rather than integrating it permanently into the cylinder structure. This allows the blocking functionality to be added temporarily during construction and then removed, avoiding permanent complexity in the lock cylinder design.
3Reliability
If the outlet slot is blocked to prevent key passage, then security is maintained, but normal lock operation is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by blocking only the outlet slot where coded keys would pass, while leaving the inlet slot and internal passage open for simplified site keys to operate during construction. This localized blocking approach maintains security at the critical outlet point without preventing necessary construction operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the blocking member can be installed or removed based on construction phase needs. The outlet slot transitions from blocked to unblocked state, allowing the lock to adapt its operation mode between construction phase (site keys with block) and operational phase (coded keys without block).
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The cylinder has washers (34) located between input and output flanges (30, 32) to define a conditioned passage way (33) of a site key (11) between input slot and output slot (36). Main and secondary pins (40, 60) and crutch pin (74) seals the output slot. The pins have main and secondary levers (50, 70) secured to main and secondary control shafts (48, 66) and a control shaft (76). An axial hole (58) is extended from the input flange to the main lever so as to receive a screw stem (38) cooperating with the lever to maintain the pins in an isolated position of the output slot. An independent claim is also included for a key for lock cylinder.