Container Locking System with Cam Mechanism and Dual Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for large storage containers are difficult to operate, lack a secondary locking mechanism for enhanced security, and are vulnerable to circumvention, especially when not level or exposed to environmental elements.
Innovation Solution
A locking system with interior-mounted rods and guides, a short ergonomic handle, and a secondary locking mechanism using a circular lock and padlock, designed for easy operation and enhanced security, featuring a housing made of heavy gauge metal and rod links for secure alignment and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional locking system is used, then the container can be locked, but it requires a great deal of effort to close and latch and is difficult to operate when the container is not level
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system employs dynamic elements including a cam mechanism that automatically adjusts to container door alignment variations, allowing the door to be locked easily regardless of whether the container is level. The cam follower automatically finds the correct engagement position, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is designed to be self-aligning through the cam mechanism, which automatically positions itself correctly during the locking operation. This self-service feature eliminates the need for the operator to manually adjust or align components, significantly reducing the effort and time required to secure the container.
2Reliability
If a single locking mechanism is used, then the system is simple, but it provides only one locking mechanism making it possible for thieves to gain entry once the locking system has been circumvented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into two independent locking mechanisms: a primary cam-based locking mechanism and a secondary padlock mechanism with hasp. This segmentation ensures that if one mechanism is compromised, the other remains intact, providing redundant security while maintaining operational simplicity through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual locking mechanism provides a form of prior cushioning against security failures. The secondary padlock mechanism acts as a backup security layer that is already in place before any potential breach attempt, ensuring that even if the primary mechanism is circumvented, the container remains secured.
3Ease of operation
If an exterior mounted housing is used, then access to the locking mechanism is provided, but it allows access to the locking mechanism and shaft by drills and hammer devices
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within the door structure itself, with the cam mechanism integrated into the door assembly and the shaft positioned inside the door rather than externally exposed. This nesting protects the critical components from external drilling and hammering attacks while maintaining operational accessibility from the interior side.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting the locking mechanism externally for easy access, the system inverts the approach by positioning the primary cam mechanism inside the door and providing access only through the interior. This reversal of the conventional exterior-mounted design protects the mechanism from external tampering while maintaining ease of operation from inside the container.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a conventional locking system is used, then the door can be locked, but it does not provide a tight seal against water, insects and other environmental elements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system merges the sealing function with the locking function by integrating the door seal engagement into the cam mechanism operation. As the cam rotates during locking, it simultaneously compresses the door seal against the frame, ensuring a tight seal against water and insects is achieved as part of the standard locking operation without requiring separate sealing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system is mounted to a door with three rods extending therefrom. The rods have a locked position extending beyond the periphery of the door and an unlocked position not extending beyond the periphery of the door. Three rod receivers are adapted to receive the three rods in the locked position. A handle rotatably engages cam plates which are operatively engaged with the rods whereby rotation of the handle rotates the cam which moves the rod ends from one position to the other. A locking tab extends forwardly from the lower cam plate into a recess and is engaged by a circular lock while the recess prevents movement of the engaged circular lock. A second locking tab extends forwardly from the rod-locking link and a stationary locking tab is aligned thereto. Both locking tabs are engaged by a padlock preventing movement of the rod-locking link.