Interchangeable Locking Module for Gate Leaf Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing door locking devices are limited in their ability to accommodate different locking cylinder types, making them unsuitable for use across various European markets, and they often require complex operation that is not user-friendly.

Innovation Solution

A closure unit comprising an outer shell and an inner carrier with a module receptacle for interchangeable locking modules, allowing operation with different locking cylinders, and featuring internal and external actuation mechanisms for simplified operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed locking device with a single cylinder type is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different locking cylinder types required in different European markets

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different locking cylinder typesVSAvoidstructure of locking device
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is divided into a fixed outer shell and a removable inner carrier that houses the locking cylinder. The carrier can be exchanged to accommodate different cylinder types (profile cylinders, round cylinders, oval cylinders) while keeping the outer shell unchanged, thus achieving market adaptability without complete redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The outer shell is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of locking cylinders through the interchangeable carrier mechanism. This allows a single outer shell design to serve multiple markets with different cylinder preferences, achieving multi-functionality

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

2Ease of operation

If unlocking is only possible via the integrated profile cylinder, then the locking mechanism is secure, but the operation becomes complex and requires a key

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation of locking deviceVSAvoidsecurity of locking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A connecting link is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the internal actuator and the locking bolt. This connecting link transmits the actuating force from either the external handle or internal lever to the locking bolt, enabling keyless operation while maintaining the security of the locking mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables self-service operation by allowing users to unlock the gate from the inside using an internal lever without requiring a key. The external handle and internal lever are mechanically linked, so operating either one automatically unlocks the bolt, providing convenient keyless operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables the door leaf to be opened from both inside and outside without a key, using a direct acting link between external and internal actuations, and allows for the use of various locking cylinder types, enhancing user convenience and market adaptability.

Implementation Method 1

A spring-loaded locking piece is provided between the two module plates

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

A locking cam, which can be rotated, is provided in the locking module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Lever

Data Source

PatentEP3929382A1Closure element
Publication Date: 2021.12.29 ALPHA DEUREN INT
  • EP3929382A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3929382A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3929382A1 patent drawingFigure 4~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a locking element (1) for a one- or multi-part gate leaf (3) which can be repositioned in approximately vertical and/or horizontal guide rails by means of guide rollers (60), wherein a stationary, arrangable locking piece (54) in conjunction with a locking element (62) is assigned to the guide rails, which can be actuated by a transmission element (16) by means of a locking cylinder actuation, wherein locking cylinders (7, 31, 49) can be operated from the inside and the outside of the gate leaf (3), which can be inserted into interchangeable, different locking models (22, 32, 38, 73), wherein the locking element (1) is provided with a shell (2) inserted into the gate leaf (3) from the outside and a carrier (9) inserted into the gate leaf (3) from the inside, wherein the shell (2) and the carrier (9) are connected to each other via the inside of the gate leaf (3), and that the carrier (9) is connected to a module holder (6) is equippedinto which the locking modules (22, 32, 38, 73) built between two module plates (35, 36) can be inserted interchangeably, wherein each locking module (22, 32, 38, 73) is assigned a translationally displaceable locking piece (30) which interacts with a trigger (24), the locking cylinders (7, 31, 49) can only be operated via the shell (2), and that after a key operation of the locking cylinder (7, 31, 49) either an external actuation (8) and/or an internal actuation (5) triggers the transmission element (16), wherein a connecting element (4) is mounted in the carrier (9) by means of which the internal actuation (5) and the external actuation (8) are operatively connected to each other.