GSAA Locking Assembly Using a Lifting Key and Sliding Bolt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ground Surface Access Assembly (GSAAs) locks are vulnerable to theft, corrosion, and debris accumulation, and fail to withstand heavy loads and cyclic loading, posing wear and damage risks to the frame, while conventional lifting keys cannot function as locks.
Innovation Solution
A robust GSAA lock design featuring a stacked member mechanism with a bolt member slidably mounted on a base plate, utilizing a tubular blade-shaft guide and annular blade-guide to prevent unauthorized access, resist corrosion, and allow operation with a lifting key that opens and lifts the cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lifting keys are used to secure GSAA covers, then the covers can be lifted and accessed, but they cannot provide locking functionality and are vulnerable to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The key blade is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a lifting tool by engaging with the cover lifting aperture, and simultaneously functions as a lock key by engaging with the lock mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate locking devices while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the previously separate functions of the lifting key and lock mechanism into a single integrated system. The key blade merges the lifting function (engaging cover aperture) with the locking function (engaging lock mechanism), creating a unified security and access system.
2Strength
If the lock mechanism is made robust to withstand heavy loads and cyclic loading, then structural integrity is maintained, but the mechanism becomes more complex and susceptible to debris accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the key blade, the lock body with bolt, and the cover lifting aperture. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall robustness and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the locking mechanism, creating a direct engagement system where the key blade directly actuates the bolt. This reduction in components simplifies the mechanism while maintaining its ability to withstand heavy loads.
3Reliability
If the lock mechanism uses tight tolerances and complex internal structures to prevent picking, then security is improved, but the mechanism becomes difficult to clean and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating a complex internal structure that resists picking through tight tolerances, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple, open mechanism where the key blade directly engages the bolt. Security is achieved through the simplicity and directness of the engagement rather than through complexity, making the mechanism easily cleanable and maintainable.
4Reliability
If the cover is made heavy to prevent unauthorized removal, then security is improved, but the cover becomes difficult to lift and access
Solution Approach 1:
The key blade acts as an intermediary tool that provides mechanical advantage for lifting the heavy cover. The key engages with the cover lifting aperture and allows the operator to lift the cover with minimal effort, while the same key also secures the cover through the lock mechanism.
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
A GSAA lock (10) comprising a bolt (14), slidably mounted upon a base plate (20); located adjacent a blade-shaft guide member (16), connected to base plate (20); wherein, upon insertion of a key shaft (S) into the upper open end (22) of the guide member (16), the key blade (B) abuts against an upper top-face portion (24) of open end (22) preventing full insertion of the shaft (S) and blade (B) within the lock, until the key (K) is further partly turned, when it drops into a lower face portion (26) of open end (22), thereby allowing the blade (B) to enter/engage a tapered bolt recess/slot (28) located on an upper face of the bolt (14); so that on further turning of the key (K), blade (B) abuts against a sidewall (6, 8) of slot (28), and pushes the bolt from an extended position to retracted/unlocked position or vice-versa.