Dual-Latch Rodent Trap Lock Mechanism for Unauthorized Access Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loadable pest-control devices, such as rodent bait stations, lack effective locking mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access and ensure secure reloading while allowing for easy operation with a key.
Innovation Solution
A dual-lock mechanism comprising a first lock portion with a post and barbs, and a second lock portion with a latch and protrusions, where the key's angled insertion and rotation within specific ranges allow for secure engagement and separation, preventing unauthorized access while enabling easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is divided into two separate portions: a first lock portion with a post and barbs that remains attached to the bait station, and a second lock portion with a latch that attaches to the door. This segmentation allows the locking function to be distributed across components, providing security while keeping individual parts relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The key shaft is inserted through the opening in the second lock portion and engages with the latch member internally. The key's lateral protrusion interacts with the latch's lateral protrusions to actuate the locking mechanism. This nested arrangement allows the key operation to occur within the confines of the second lock portion without adding external complexity.
2Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to ensure security, then unauthorized access is prevented, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The key is designed with an asymmetric shaft that must be inserted at a specific angle (no more than 30 degrees from perpendicular) to engage properly with the latch member. The lateral protrusion on the key shaft corresponds to the lateral protrusions on the latch, creating an asymmetric interaction that provides security while maintaining straightforward operation when the key is correctly positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The angular parameter of key insertion is constrained to no more than 30 degrees from perpendicular to the opening, and the lateral displacement of the key shaft is limited to 0.1-0.5 inches to actuate the latch. These parameter constraints define a clear operational envelope that simplifies user interaction while ensuring secure engagement.
3Ease of operation
If the key can be inserted at any angle, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of proper engagement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The opening in the second lock portion and the key shaft are designed with angular tolerance of no more than 30 degrees from perpendicular. This parameter specification allows for practical ease of insertion while ensuring that the key shaft aligns sufficiently with the latch member's lateral protrusions to achieve reliable engagement and actuation.
Data Source
AI summary
Locks for use with pest-control devices such as bait stations or other loadable devices, kits that include a lock and key, and pest control devices that include a lock.