Foldable Chain Lock with Nesting Link Plates for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional chain locks with linkage systems, while reducing volume when folded, often neglect aesthetic considerations and storage compatibility, particularly in compact spaces like bike bottle cages.
Innovation Solution
A chain lock design featuring a lock body with a socket and a dual linkage chain system, where the first linkage chain can fold and lean against the second linkage chain, both being secured by a lock core, allowing for a compact column shape when stored, suitable for bike bottle cages without needing an extra shelf.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the chain lock is designed with a conventional U-shape padlock structure, then the lock body is simple and easy to manufacture, but the volume is bulky and not suitable for compact storage
Solution Approach 1:
The chain lock is divided into multiple link plates that can be folded relative to each other. Each link plate acts as an independent segment that can be collapsed into a compact configuration, transforming the lock from a rigid U-shape structure into a foldable linkage system that reduces volume while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized link plate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock body is transformed from a static rigid structure into a dynamic foldable linkage system. The link plates are connected through pivot points that allow relative motion, enabling the lock to transition between an extended operational state and a collapsed storage state, thereby reducing volume without complicating the manufacturing process.
2Volume of moving object
If the linkage chains are folded for storage, then the volume is reduced, but the appearance and storage compatibility are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage chains are designed to fold into a compact columnar shape when collapsed, rather than a random or irregular form. This controlled folding geometry creates a neat, uniform appearance that is both aesthetically pleasing and compatible with cylindrical storage spaces like bike bottle cages, thereby improving both appearance and storage compatibility while maintaining volume reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The link plates are designed to nest within each other when folded, with each plate positioning itself inside or alongside the previous plate. This nested configuration creates a compact, organized columnar structure that maintains a neat appearance and maximizes space efficiency during storage, addressing both appearance and storage compatibility concerns.
3Volume of moving object
If the chain lock is designed for compact storage, then the volume is reduced, but the adaptability to different storage locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable linkage design creates a universal storage solution that can adapt to various compact locations. The columnar folded shape and standardized dimensions enable the lock to fit into different storage spaces including bike bottle cages, under seats, in compartments, or hanging from hooks, thereby enhancing adaptability and versatility while maintaining compact volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock's effective dimensions are dynamically changed through folding. When collapsed, the link plates align to create a compact columnar form with reduced length, width, and height parameters, allowing the lock to fit into tight spaces. This parameter transformation enables the same lock to adapt to different storage locations with varying space constraints, improving both compactness and storage compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A chain lock is provided. The chain lock includes a lock body and a linkage chain set. The lock body includes a lock core disposed in the lock body, a lock body side face, and a socket. The linkage chain set is formed via linking a plurality of linkage chains. Each linkage chain is formed via linking a plurality of link plates. One end of the linkage chain set is joined with the lock body, wherein the other end of the linkage chain set can be inserted into the socket and secured by the lock core. When the other end of the linkage chain set is not secured by the lock core, each linkage chain can be folded to make the link plates overlap with each other, wherein the folded linkage chains can lean against each other and are located beside the lock body side face.