Dual Locking Padlock with Integrated Overriding Key Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current padlocks lack a dual locking mechanism that allows secure access and inspection by customs or security personnel without damaging the lock, and do not provide a convenient method for users to reset the combination if forgotten.
Innovation Solution
A padlock with a dual locking mechanism featuring a code locking mechanism and an overriding key mechanism, where the spindle's upward movement unlocks the shackle either by entering the correct combination or using a key, allowing for easy reset of the combination code.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single combination locking mechanism is used, then the padlock is easy to operate and reset, but security personnel cannot inspect the lock without breaking it
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent subsystems: a combination locking mechanism (first locking mechanism) and an overriding key mechanism (second locking mechanism). Each subsystem independently controls the shackle through separate locking balls and cam structures, allowing security personnel to inspect the lock using the overriding mechanism without damaging the combination mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The padlock housing integrates multiple locking mechanisms with different functions: the combination mechanism provides user-controlled security, while the overriding mechanism provides inspection capability. Both mechanisms share common components like the shackle and housing, achieving multi-functionality within a single device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dual locking mechanism is added for security inspection, then security personnel can inspect the lock, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Two independent locking mechanisms are merged into a single integrated system within one housing. The combination mechanism and overriding mechanism share common structural elements such as the shackle, housing, and cam-operated locking balls, reducing overall complexity compared to having separate locks.
3Ease of operation
If the combination code is forgotten, then the user loses access to the padlock, but adding a backup key mechanism increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The overriding key mechanism serves as an intermediary solution between the combination mechanism and complete lockout. When the combination is forgotten, the overriding key provides an alternative path to unlock the shackle through the same cam-operated locking balls, restoring access without requiring system replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual locking padlock having a code locking mechanism and an overriding mechanism is disclosed. The housing has a spacer as its top portion, a stack of clutches forming a middle portion and a bottom portion having holes to receive screws from the spacer for securing the housing. Dials are rotatably mounted on the clutches for changing the combination code. The housing has a spindle having a channel to store the heel of a shackle. The spindle's upward movement allows the shackle to be pulled upward to unlock the padlock. The spindle is allowed to move upward either when a correct combination code is used or when a key activates the overriding mechanism. With the overriding mechanism, the user can open the padlock with a backup key if the user forgets the combination code, and then reset the dials to a new combination code.