Falling Latch Locking Device with Movable Stop for Emergency Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Falling latch locking devices lack a reliable mechanism for both secure locking and emergency unlocking, particularly in scenarios where external access is necessary.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a movable stop within the lock that blocks the handle in the locked state, allowing for reliable locking while enabling emergency opening by urging the closing element back against a resilient force, and utilizing a cylinder lock with a concealed stop and secure fastening means to prevent unauthorized access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the closing element is blocked to prevent opening, then reliable locking is achieved, but emergency unlocking becomes impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidemergency unlocking capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into two independent blocking components: a first blocking component (closing element) that engages with the catch plate for normal locking, and a second blocking component (stop) that blocks the handle for enhanced security. This segmentation allows each component to have specialized functions, enabling both reliable locking and emergency unlocking capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient force acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables emergency unlocking. When external force is applied to the closing element, the resilient force allows temporary disengagement from the catch plate, permitting the handle to be moved and the lock to be opened even when the stop is engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the handle is blocked with a stop, then emergency unlocking is enabled, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemergency opening capabilityVSAvoidlock structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stop is integrated into the existing cylinder lock structure, merging the emergency blocking function with the conventional locking mechanism. The stop is arranged on the inner-lying end section of the cylinder lock and rotates about the longitudinal axis, combining multiple functions into a single component to minimize overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stop serves multiple functions: it blocks the handle in the locked state to prevent unauthorized opening, it rotates with the cylinder lock during normal operation, and it works in conjunction with the resilient force to enable emergency unlocking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of information

If the stop is visible from the outside, then the locked state is evident, but security against unauthorized access is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocked state visibilityVSAvoidunauthorized access attempts
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The stop is positioned to block a specific section of the handle that is concealed by the first locking device casing. This local positioning ensures that the stop's blocking function is maintained while its visibility is minimized, creating different qualities in different locations: the stop is functional where it blocks the handle but concealed where it would indicate the locked state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Ensures reliable locking with the option for emergency unlocking by blocking the handle rather than the closing element, providing enhanced security and protection against unauthorized opening.

Implementation Method 1

a closing element (3) that is influenced by a compression spring (4) moving the closing element (3) into a catchplate (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResilient force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a closing element (3) that is influenced by a compression spring (4) moving the closing element (3) into a catchplate (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression spring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS9016733B2Falling latch locking device
Publication Date: 2015.04.28 FATH GMBH
  • US9016733B2 patent drawing
  • US9016733B2 patent drawing
  • US9016733B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Falling latch locking device having a first locking device casing that includes a handle, a closing element and a lock, and having a second locking device casing that includes a cut-out for receiving the closing element in the closed state, wherein the lock comprises a stop that can be moved by locking and unlocking the lock and in the locked state the stop blocks the opening of the handle.