Container Lock System with Automatic Spring-Return and Visual Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal lock systems for construction storage containers require manual operation to move the latch rod between locked and unlocked positions, making unlocking cumbersome and visually determining the lock status difficult.
Innovation Solution
A locking system with a carrier member and biasing unit that automatically moves the locking member between locked and unlocked positions, featuring a padlock and locking indicator assembly to visually indicate the lock status, allowing the cover to be easily opened and closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a horizontal lock system with padlock and latch rod is used, then the container can be securely locked, but the operator must manually move the latch rod after unlocking the padlock, making the process cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The latch rod is designed to automatically move between locked and unlocked positions in response to padlock shackle movement. The spring mechanism provides self-service by automatically returning the latch rod to the unlocked position when the padlock is removed, eliminating the need for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The padlock shackle acts as an intermediary element that connects to the latch rod. When the shackle is locked, it blocks the latch rod in the locked position; when unlocked, it releases the blockage, allowing the spring to move the latch rod automatically.
2Reliability
If a horizontal lock system with padlock and latch rod is used, then the container can be securely locked, but it is difficult to determine visually whether the container is locked or unlocked
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visual indicators with different colors or patterns to represent locked and unlocked states. The indicator changes appearance based on the latch rod position, providing clear visual feedback to users about the current lock status.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicator changes its state (position, orientation, or visibility) in response to changes in the latch rod position. When the latch rod moves between locked and unlocked positions, the indicator相应ly changes to provide visual confirmation of the lock status.
3Reliability
If the latch rod is positioned to engage the padlock body, then the padlock blocks longitudinal movement of the latch rod, but an end of the latch rod must pass between the shackle and padlock body to move to release position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones: a blocking portion that engages with the padlock body to prevent movement in the locked state, and a release portion that can pass between the shackle and body when unlocking. This segmentation allows the single latch rod to perform both locking and unlocking functions through different sections.
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 locking system simplifies the unlocking process and provides clear visual indication of the lock status, enhancing user convenience and security by automating the transition between locked and unlocked states.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing unit is attached to the carrier member. The biasing unit is configured to bias the carrier member toward the unlocked position.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system includes a carrier member at least one locking member extending from the rod. The carrier member is movable between a first locked position in which the locking member engages a locking receptacle to maintain a container cover in a closed position and a second unlocked position in which the locking member disengages from the locking receptacle and the cover is movable between the closed and open position. The locking system includes a blocking member at a second end of the carrier member. The blocking member is movable between a first engaged position in which the rod abuts a portion of the blocking member and maintains the elongate rod in the first locked position and a second disengaged position in which the rod disengages from the blocking member and a biasing unit urges the rod in the second unlocked position.