Multi-point Exit Door Lock with Pre-assembled Cable Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exit door multipoint lock systems require accurate installation to function correctly, which is often flawed, leading to security and emergency exit issues, as well as economic problems due to excessive installation time and costly corrections.

Innovation Solution

A new exit door lock system with pre-assembled main and remote lock modules connected by high-strength cables, and a simplified installation method using a marking template to ensure accurate placement of mounting holes, reducing the need for on-site assembly and minimizing errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single long lock assembly comprising central and remote locks coupled by push rods is used, then the lock system can function as a multipoint locking system, but the component becomes large and awkward

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultipoint locking functionalityVSAvoidlock assembly size and awkwardness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock assembly is divided into separate modular components: a central lock module and multiple remote lock modules that can be independently positioned and installed on the door. Each module contains its own locking mechanism and can be mounted at different locations, eliminating the need for a single long rigid assembly while maintaining multipoint locking capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If drive rods or push rods extend from central lock to remote locks for simultaneous actuation, then the locks can work simultaneously, but the upper and lower locks must be positioned and located with considerable accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous lock actuationVSAvoidhole orientation and drilling accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from rigid push rods requiring precise alignment to flexible cables that can accommodate variations in hole positioning. The cables provide a dynamic connection that allows the remote locks to be actuated simultaneously without requiring exact precision in hole location and orientation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If accurate installation is performed to ensure proper lock function, then security and emergency exit reliability are maintained, but installation time becomes excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelock system functionalityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The cable connections are pre-assembled between the central and remote lock modules at the factory before installation. This preliminary assembly ensures proper cable routing and tensioning is accomplished during manufacturing rather than during field installation, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining reliable simultaneous actuation of all locks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Manufacturing precision

If marked, drilled and bolted/screwed steps are performed for accurate lock installation, then the locks can be properly positioned, but errors in measuring, orientation and final installation may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelock module positioning accuracyVSAvoidinstallation difficulty and error potential
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates self-aligning features where the pre-assembled cable connections and modular design allow the lock modules to automatically position themselves correctly during installation. The cables guide the remote locks into proper alignment with the central lock, reducing the need for precise manual measurement and drilling while minimizing installation errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9074392B2Multi-point exit door lock and method of installation
Publication Date: 2015.07.07 SECURITECH GROUP
  • US9074392B2 patent drawing
  • US9074392B2 patent drawing
  • US9074392B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-point exit door lock and method of installing same, the door lock including main lock and upper and lower lock modules. a push type panic bar, lock bolts associated with each of the lock modules, and a pull-type cable of predetermined length having its ends fixed to the main lock module and to each of the upper and lower lock modules, whereby pushing the panic bar opens all lock modules. The method of installing the new lock includes a template which is temporarily mounted to the exit door and rotated to successive positions for automatically and accurately marking all the drill holes for mounting all the lock modules at relative distances apart corresponding to the predetermined distances between them pre-established by the cables of predetermined length fixedly attached to the various lock modules.