Compact Gun Lock with Coupling Gear for Single-Hand Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gun locks are large, heavy, and require both hands to access quickly, necessitating multiple configurations for different weapons, which increases inventory and complexity, and include unnecessary timing mechanisms for safety.
Innovation Solution
A compact gun lock design with a pair of lock gates and a coupling gear system that allows single-hand access and secures both automatic rifles and shotguns, eliminating the need for separate locks and timing mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional gun locks are used, then weapons are securely locked, but the lock size and weight increase, requiring more space in the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The gun lock is divided into two separate lock gates instead of a single monolithic structure. Each gate independently secures one side of the weapon, allowing the overall lock mechanism to be more compact and lighter while maintaining secure containment of the weapon
Solution Approach 2:
The lock gates are designed to nest within the gun lock body when in the closed position, with the gates fitting into recesses in the body. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall size of the lock mechanism when not in use, reducing the space required in the vehicle gun rack
2Reliability
If traditional gun locks with manual gate opening are used, then security is maintained, but both hands are required to access the weapon quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical gate opening system is replaced with an electrical release mechanism using a solenoid. When activated, the solenoid automatically releases both lock gates simultaneously, allowing the weapon to be accessed quickly with one hand while maintaining secure locking during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The lock gates are designed with spring-loaded mechanisms that automatically return to the locked position after being released. This self-service feature ensures that after the solenoid releases the gates, they automatically re-engage and secure the weapon without requiring manual intervention, maintaining security while enabling quick access
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gun lock configurations are used for different weapons, then various weapon types are accommodated, but inventory complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gun lock is designed as a universal mechanism that can accommodate multiple weapon types including automatic rifles and shotguns. The lock gates and receptacle are configured to securely hold different weapon configurations without requiring changes to the lock mechanism itself, allowing a single design to serve multiple functions and reducing inventory complexity
4Reliability
If timing mechanisms are included in gun locks, then safety is improved, but device complexity and circuitry requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The timing mechanism and associated safety circuitry are completely removed from the gun lock design. Safety is maintained through the mechanical design of the lock gates and receptacle, which physically constrain the weapon, and through simple electrical release functionality without complex timing controls, thereby reducing device complexity and circuitry requirements
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
The solution provides immediate one-hand access to weapons, reduces space and weight in vehicles, simplifies inventory management by accommodating multiple weapon types with a single design, and eliminates the need for complex timing circuits, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an electric release mechanism is provided which utilizes a solenoid lock release mechanism within the gun lock body
Data Source
AI summary
A gun lock for use in securing a weapon within a gun rack of a police vehicle or the like utilizes a housing supporting a pair of curved lock gates in curved travel paths between an abutting closed configuration and a separated open configuration. The curved lock gates are constrained in curved travel paths by a top plate and a lower plate and each define a curved gear rack. A coupling gear is rotatably supported within the housing and simultaneously engages both curved gear racks to provide movement of the lock gates between open and closed configuration. A solenoid operated latching mechanism secures the lock gates from movement away from the closed and locked configuration in the absence of an electrical activation. A key override is provided in the event of an electrical failure within the host vehicle.