Key-Operable Lockset Single-Handed Operation Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storeroom locksets require two-handed operation to open, which can be difficult for users, especially when a door closer is installed, as they need one hand to rotate the key and another to pull the door open.
Innovation Solution
A lockset design featuring a chassis with a latchbolt and handle that can be operated to retract the latchbolt when unlocked, with a lock cylinder plug that transitions between locked and unlocked states upon rotation, allowing single-handed operation by enabling the handle to retract the latchbolt when the lock is unlocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key-operated lock cylinder is used for storeroom function, then security and controlled access are improved, but two-handed operation is required which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the key-operated unlocking function with the handle actuation function into a single integrated operation. When the key is inserted and turned, it simultaneously unlocks the latchbolt mechanism and activates the handle to push the latchbolt retracted, allowing the door to be opened with one hand while maintaining key-based security control.
Solution Approach 2:
The key operation performs preliminary unlocking action before handle actuation. The key turning first disengages the locking mechanism, then the handle is activated to complete the door opening action. This sequence allows the user to prepare the unlocking state with the key before using the handle, enabling one-handed operation.
2Reliability
If the handle is always locked in storeroom function, then security is improved, but the handle becomes inoperable without a key which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the key insertion/turning action with the handle actuation function. The handle mechanism is designed so that when the key is turned in the locked position, it automatically triggers the handle to move and push the latchbolt retracted, combining the unlocking and door-opening actions into one integrated sequence that maintains security while enabling one-handed operation.
3Reliability
If a door closer is installed, then door safety and control are improved, but the force required to pull the door open increases which worsens ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The key operation performs a preliminary action by automatically actuating the handle to push the latchbolt retracted before the user needs to pull the door. This preliminary handle activation reduces the force required to overcome the door closer, making door opening easier while maintaining the safety benefits of the door closer.
Data Source
AI summary
A lockset including a chassis having a locked state and an unlocked state, a latchbolt connected with the chassis, a handle mounted to the chassis, and a lock cylinder connected with the chassis. The handle is operable to retract the latchbolt when the chassis is unlocked, and is inoperable to retract the latchbolt when the chassis is locked. The lock cylinder includes a shell and a plug selectively rotatable relative to the shell. The chassis is configured to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state in response to rotation of the plug in a first rotational direction from a home position to a first rotated position. The chassis is configured to return from the unlocked state to the locked state in response to rotation of the plug in a second rotational direction from the first rotated position to the home position.