Door Lock Catch Element Merging Control Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic door locks require complex operation to switch between day and night functions, often necessitating separate levers on the locking part and lock faceplate, which can be cumbersome and limited in design.
Innovation Solution
A locking part with a permanently movable catch part and a control element on the lock housing allows for easy activation and deactivation of the catch function, enabling one-handed operation by varying the latch's exit dimension, thus integrating the catch and automatic functions into a single control mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate levers on the locking part and lock faceplate are used to switch between day and night functions, then the catch function can be activated, but the operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the frame-side lever and lock faceplate lever into a single control element on the lock housing. This single control element integrates both the catch function activation and automatic function deactivation, eliminating the need for separate levers and simplifying the operation to a single action.
Solution Approach 2:
The single control element on the lock housing serves multiple functions: it activates the catch function, deactivates the automatic function, and varies the latch's exit dimension. This multi-functional design replaces the previous separate control mechanisms, reducing operational complexity while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the latch projection dimension is fixed, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the ability to switch between locking and passage positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism incorporates a variable projection dimension that can dynamically adjust between a first projection dimension (for locking position) and a second projection dimension (for passage position). This dynamic adjustment is achieved through the control element that varies the latch's exit dimension, allowing the same mechanism to serve multiple functions without adding significant complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the latch projection dimension to enable function switching. By varying the exit dimension of the latch between two states, the system transitions between locking and passage functions, demonstrating parameter change as a method to achieve versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Reliability
If a permanently movable catch part is used, then the catch function is always active, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The permanently movable catch part is designed to be always active and ready to engage, requiring no additional activation mechanism. The catch part automatically performs its function of allowing passage when the latch is retracted, making the system more reliable while the overall complexity is managed by the integrated control element that coordinates the catch and latch movements.
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
This design simplifies the operation of automatic locks by allowing seamless switching between locking and passage positions without needing to access the frame-side lever, enhancing user convenience and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a movable, spring-loaded catch that can be locked, for example, via a small lever
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~9
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking element (7) for a door lock (12), comprising a base body (9) on which a fixed element (14) with a fixed locking surface (12) for a latch (5) of a door lock (1, 2) is arranged, and a catch element (10) movably arranged on the base body (9), the latter projecting with its front, movable catch edge (11) beyond the fixed locking surface (12) by a predetermined amount, thus defining a movable catch surface (16). The invention also relates to a corresponding door lock.