Electronic Key Battery Cover With Child-Resistant Dual Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic keys with removable covers are susceptible to being easily opened by children or infants, posing a risk of battery extraction and potential ingestion.
Innovation Solution
The electronic key features a cover securing mechanism that requires multiple operations in different directions to remove the cover, including a first lock that bends in a direction intersecting the cover's rotation and a second lock that engages through end pieces, along with stoppers to control rotation, making it difficult for children or infants to open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cover is made easily removable by simple rotation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety against children or infants is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The cover securing mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking elements (first locking element and second locking element) that operate in different directions. The first locking element prevents rotation, while the second locking element prevents disengagement, creating segmented security that children cannot easily overcome
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-directional operation requirements by implementing locks that respond to different types of movements (rotation vs. disengagement). This adds dimensional complexity to the opening operation, transforming a simple single-direction problem into a multi-dimensional challenge that is difficult for children to solve
2Reliability
If a cover securing mechanism with multiple locking elements is implemented, then the safety against children is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated cover structure. The first and second locking elements are both incorporated into the cover itself, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the battery, provides sealing, and incorporates both locking elements for security. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby reducing device complexity while improving safety
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic key includes a case, a cover, and a cover securing mechanism. The case includes a battery receptacle for accommodating a battery. The battery serves as a power supply when performing authentication through wireless communication with a communication peer. The cover is configured to close the battery receptacle. The cover securing mechanism is configured to secure the cover to the case. The cover is removed from the case by operating the cover securing mechanism in two or more different operation directions.