Gun Cabinet Locking Arm for Secure Multi-Drawer Firearm Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems fail to provide sufficient theft deterrence, fire resistance, water resistance, and ease of operation while also serving as a workbench and being securely bolted to the floor or wall, particularly for storing firearms.
Innovation Solution
A storage system with a metal enclosure featuring translating drawers, a locking mechanism with a pivoting arm and latch system, fire-resistant and water-resistant layers, and a work surface with firearm mounts, secured to the floor or wall for enhanced security and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but theft deterrent capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent components: a movable arm that engages with drawer faces, a latch that secures the arm, and a switch mechanism with keyhole. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while collectively providing strong theft deterrent capability. The arm can be independently moved to locked/unlocked positions, the latch provides secondary security, and the keyhole controls access, creating a multi-layered security system that remains operationally simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable arm serves multiple functions: it acts as a locking element when engaged with drawer faces, provides a visible security indicator when positioned, and can be manually manipulated for easy unlocking. The single arm mechanism universally secures multiple drawers simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate locks for each drawer while maintaining simple operation through a single control point.
2Ease of manufacture
If thin gauge steel is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but protection against physical damage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin gauge steel sheets that are strategically formed and positioned to create effective protection. The steel is formed into specific geometries (such as the movable arm configuration) that provide structural strength despite the thin material gauge. Thin films or layers of protective material are applied to the steel surfaces to enhance durability and resistance to physical damage without significantly increasing cost or complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If fire and water-resistant insulations are added, then protection against physical damage is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates fire-resistant and water-resistant materials as composite layers within the drawer structure. These insulations are combined with the steel framework to create a multi-material construction that provides protection against fire and water damage. The composite materials are positioned strategically within the drawer assemblies, allowing the locking mechanism to remain relatively simple while the drawer contents benefit from enhanced environmental protection.
4Reliability
If a secure bolt-to-wall system is implemented, then theft deterrent capability is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm and latch mechanism are pre-configured during manufacturing to enable secure attachment to wall or floor structures. The arm is designed with pre-positioned mounting features and the latch is pre-aligned to work with the mounting system. This preliminary configuration allows the secure bolt-to-wall installation to be performed more easily during installation, as the components are already positioned and prepared rather than requiring complex field assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system is provided. The storage system includes an enclosure forming an open side exposing a face of a drawer, the drawer in translatable engagement with an interior of the enclosure. A first arm is secured to the enclosure and configured to pivot within the enclosure into a locked position and without the enclosure in an unlocked position. A translatable latch is provided for unlocking the first arm from the locked position. The latch translates through an aperture of the arm, the aperture being housed within the side of the enclosure for security when in the locked position.