Cylinder Lock Rotary Knob Position Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cylinder locks often require a key for both locking and opening, making it difficult for users to determine if a key is needed, leading to unnecessary key retrieval, especially when a push button operation is feasible, and they lack clear indication of operation mode.
Innovation Solution
A cylinder lock with a rotary knob that moves upward from the front surface when in the releasing position, allowing clear indication of operation mode and enabling manual opening and closing without a key, while still allowing key-based locking and opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key-based cylinder lock is used for locking compartments, then security is improved, but user convenience deteriorates because users cannot easily determine whether a key is needed for opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism through a window and indicator elements that show the locking state of the compartment. The first indicator element shows whether the compartment is locked or unlocked, and the second indicator element shows whether the latch is engaged or disengaged. This feedback allows users to immediately know whether a key is needed for opening, eliminating the need to retrieve a key unnecessarily while maintaining secure key-based locking when required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two different locking means (lock and latch) are installed, then functionality is improved (locking and keyless operation), but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lock and latch mechanisms into a single integrated cylinder lock assembly. The lock mechanism includes a key-operated cylinder that controls a latch, while the latch mechanism can be operated independently by pushing the cylindrical surface. Both mechanisms share common components such as the cylinder body, latch arm, and indicator system, reducing overall complexity compared to having separate lock and latch devices while maintaining both key-based and keyless operation capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If push button operation is added to enable keyless opening, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical surface of the lock assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as the outer casing of the lock, the push button surface for keyless operation, and the indicator window background. Pushing this cylindrical surface disengages the latch mechanism, enabling keyless opening. This multi-functionality adds keyless operation capability without requiring separate buttons or complex actuating mechanisms, as the existing cylindrical structure fulfills multiple roles.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cylinder lock, which is used for locking compartments, boxes, storages etc. The cylinder lock comprises a cylinder body (2), an inner cylinder (3) and a rotating part (4). The front part (17) of the inner cylinder is provided with a rotary knob (19). The lock cylinder comprises a spring (27), which is arranged to push the rotary knob outwards. When the cylinder lock is locked, the rotary knob (19) is in the inner position primarily inside the cylinder lock. When the cylinder lock is unlocked, the rotary knob (19) is in the outer position as pushed by a spring, in which position it can be rotated to close and open a box, storage etc. without a key.