Door Lock Extender for Fire Alarm Panel Cable Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fire alarm system walkthrough tests create a security risk due to the need for the control panel box door to remain open and unlocked, allowing unattended access in public spaces while connecting the control panel to the service box.
Innovation Solution
A door lock extender that allows the control panel box door to be locked while providing sufficient clearance for the cable harness, using a design compatible with various cam locks and made from die-cast alloy for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the control panel box door is locked to secure the control panel, then security is improved, but the cable harness cannot be routed from the control panel to the service box
Solution Approach 1:
The door lock extender adds a dimensional extension to the locking mechanism, projecting the latch engagement point outward from the door plane. This creates a new spatial dimension where the cable can pass through the door opening without interfering with the locking mechanism, resolving the conflict between security and cable routing capability
2Ease of operation
If the control panel box door is kept open to allow cable harness passage, then cable routing is enabled, but security is compromised due to unattended access risk
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent functional components: the latch mechanism that provides security engagement with the housing, and the cable opening that remains accessible for cable routing. This segmentation allows both security and cable access to function simultaneously without compromise
3Reliability
If the door is locked close to the housing to maximize security, then security is improved, but the cable harness gets crimped or pinched
Solution Approach 1:
The door lock extender acts as an intermediary element between the door and housing, maintaining the security function of the latch while creating physical separation that prevents the door from compressing or pinching the cable harness against the housing when locked
Data Source
AI summary
A door lock extender and method of using the door lock extender in connection with a control panel box. The door lock extender includes an extender base having a lock slot for accepting a tang latch of a lock and an extender latch that is configured to engage a catch member of a control panel box. In use, the tang latch of the lock is inserted into the lock slot of the extender base. The extender latch engages the catch member on a housing of the control panel box locking a door to the housing while providing sufficient clearance for passage of a cable between the door and the housing.