Key Duplicator Reset Mechanism With Torsion Spring Auto-Return

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current key duplication devices have manual worktable mechanisms that are complex, low in precision, and inefficient, leading to errors and poor user experience, and semi-automatic devices require manual reset operations that are cumbersome and non-ergonomic.

Innovation Solution

A reset mechanism for key duplication devices featuring a rotatable body with a torsion spring and self-locking assembly, allowing automatic return to the workspace from the loading area, with a drive part and locking mechanism for precise and ergonomic operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual worktable mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and work efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworktable mechanism complexityVSAvoidworktable positioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical worktable mechanism with an automated reset mechanism driven by a control system. The control system automatically triggers the reset operation after key duplication, eliminating manual manipulation while achieving precise worktable positioning and resetting, thus resolving the contradiction between device complexity and manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If manual worktable mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but work efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworktable mechanism complexityVSAvoidkey duplication work efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The reset mechanism is designed to automatically execute the worktable reset operation without requiring manual intervention. After the key duplication process completes, the control system autonomously triggers the reset sequence, allowing the worktable to return to its initial position automatically. This self-service capability eliminates idle time and manual operations, significantly improving work efficiency while maintaining reasonable device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Extent of automation

If semi-automatic reset operation is required, then automation level is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereset mechanism automation levelVSAvoidreset operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is programmed to automatically detect when the key duplication process is complete and autonomously trigger the reset mechanism. The user simply needs to initiate the duplication process; all subsequent operations including the reset are performed automatically. This full automation eliminates the need for manual reset button pressing, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining high automation level.

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

The reset mechanism simplifies operations, enhances precision, and improves user experience by enabling automatic return of the worktable, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency while adhering to ergonomic design principles.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic member is a torsion spring mounted on the spindle; a first torsion arm of the torsion spring is connected with the body which always tends to move towards workspace

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3427893B1Reset mechanism of a key duplication device
Publication Date: 2022.07.13 SHENZHEN SHUMA ELECTRONICS TECH
  • EP3427893B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3427893B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3427893B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a reset mechanism of the key duplication device which comprises a reset apparatus (1), a spindle (3) and a body (4), wherein the spindle (3) is inserted into the body (4) and is rotatably connected to the body (4). Between workspace and a loading area, the body (4) is repeatedly moveable along the spindle (3). The reset mechanism comprises an elastic member (11) connected with the body (4). Elastic forces of the elastic member (11) always act on the body (4) and move the body (4) toward the workspace. After the body (4) is rotated to the loading area against the elastic forces of the elastic member (11), when a withdrawal force exceeds the elastic forces, the body (4) automatically returns to the workspace under the influence of the elastic forces. The fewer and easier operating steps and the more efficient work of the reset mechanism make the mechanism conforming to ergonomic design.