Expandable Lock Attachment Member for Variable Orifice Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable devices with standard rectangular locking orifices of varying sizes (e.g., 3 mm×7 mm, 2.5 mm×6 mm, 3.2 mm×4.5 mm) face limitations in compatibility with locks, making them vulnerable to theft due to size mismatches.
Innovation Solution
A lock design featuring an attachment member with rotatably connected movable parts and a fixing device, including a base, movable connection parts, and a locking mechanism, which can expand or retract to fit various locking orifice sizes, and a flexible chain or cable for secure attachment to portable devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard rectangular locking orifice of fixed size is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different lock sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment member employs movable connection parts that can expand and retract dynamically. The first and second movable connection parts are rotatably connected to the base, allowing the attachment member to change its dimensions adaptively. This dynamic structure enables the lock to accommodate different locking orifice sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment member is divided into multiple independent segments: a base, a first movable connection part, and a second movable connection part. Each segment can move independently relative to the others, allowing the structure to adapt to various lock sizes. The segmentation enables flexibility without requiring a completely complex redesign of the entire attachment mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the attachment member is made expandable with movable parts, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base serves multiple functions: it provides the structural foundation for the attachment member, acts as the mounting point for the movable connection parts, and serves as the interface with the locking orifice. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the expandable design.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second movable connection parts are integrated with the base through rotational connections rather than separate mounting mechanisms. The extensions of these movable parts directly engage with the locking orifice, merging the connection function into the movable parts themselves rather than requiring separate fastening components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size locking orifice is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the compatibility with various locks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The movable connection parts are designed to automatically adjust their configuration as they expand or retract. The gravitational force and the mechanical interaction between the movable parts and the base enable self-adjustment without requiring external tools or complex manual operations. Users simply need to insert the attachment member into the locking orifice, and the system self-adjusts to achieve a proper fit.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock contains: an attachment member and a fixing device. The attachment member includes a base, a first movable connection part and a second movable connection part which are rotatably connected on the base can expandable outward and retractable inward. The first movable connection part has a first extension, a first post opposite to the first extension, and a first tab. The second movable connection part has a second extension, a second post opposite to the second extension, and a second tab. The fixing device includes a case and a locking mechanism. The case is configured to fit with the base and has a retaining groove. The locking mechanism is arranged in the case and includes a movable rod configured to separate the first movable connection part from the second movable connection part.