Dual Locking Safe with Side Release Buttons
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional safes are impractical and aesthetically undesirable for securely storing keys that require access by multiple users, as they are either too large, obstructive, or at risk of theft when mounted in locations accessible to authorized users.
Innovation Solution
A safe with dual locking mechanisms, including a combination lock and user-operable side buttons that require proper manipulation to access the contents, and can be securely mounted to a structure using a shackle or other arrangements to prevent theft, featuring a flush design that resists unauthorized access and tampering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a relatively large locked enclosure (traditional safe) is used to securely store a key, then security against loss or theft of the key is improved, but the safe becomes aesthetically undesirable, inconvenient, obstructive, and difficult to mount
Solution Approach 1:
The safe is segmented into two distinct locking mechanisms: a primary locking interface (combination lock or key-operated) and a secondary release mechanism (side buttons). This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized independently - the compact housing can accommodate both mechanisms while maintaining security, and the release mechanism is positioned for ease of access by authorized users.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism is positioned on the side of the safe (side buttons) rather than on the front face, utilizing the lateral dimension. This allows the safe to maintain a compact front profile for aesthetic purposes while providing accessible release functionality on the sides, resolving the contradiction between compact size and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If a smaller portable safe is used to maintain aesthetic desirability and convenience, then ease of operation is improved, but the safe becomes vulnerable to loss or theft of the entire safe along with its contents
Solution Approach 1:
The safe includes a mounting arrangement with a hasp and shackle that can be预先 installed on walls, doors, or other structures. This preliminary mounting action secures the safe to a fixed location, preventing theft of the entire safe while maintaining its compact, aesthetically pleasing form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting arrangement is merged with the safe housing, integrating the hasp and shackle mechanisms into the overall safe structure. This combination provides both security against theft and maintains the compact design, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware that would increase size.
3Reliability
If conventional safes are used for key storage, then security is provided, but the safes are either too large, obstructive, or at risk of theft when mounted in locations accessible to authorized users
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into two independent mechanisms: a primary lock (combination or key-operated) and a secondary release system (side buttons). This segmentation allows the safe to be compact while maintaining security, as each mechanism can be miniaturized and integrated efficiently into the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The safe is designed with universal mounting options through the hasp and shackle arrangement, allowing it to be mounted on various structures (walls, doors, etc.) in different locations. This multi-functionality provides security without requiring a specific mounting location, and the compact design reduces obstruction while maintaining accessibility for authorized users.
Data Source
AI summary
A safe for providing security and storage of personal items. The safe includes a housing, a door, a user operable locking mechanism and a user operable release mechanism. The door can be opened only upon both proper manipulation of the user operable locking mechanism and proper manipulation of the user operable release mechanism. The user operable release mechanism is disposed to reduce the risk of theft of the contents of the safe by unauthorized attempts to manipulate the release mechanism. The safe may include a mounting arrangement for mounting the housing to a structure to reduce the risk of theft of the safe.