Key Storage Device with Automatic Biasing Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key storage devices are cumbersome, complex to install, require frequent maintenance, and lack a simple, durable, and reliable design, especially when used in harsh conditions, and often necessitate manual operation for locking and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A key storage device with a housing, blocking structure, and actuator that uses a biasing device to automatically lock the carrier in a closed position, eliminating the need for manual latches, and allows tool-free maintenance and battery replacement, with a securing mechanism that secures to a wall or door without screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual latch is used to lock the carrier in the closed position, then the locking function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing device automatically biases the blocking member into engagement with the blocking structure when the carrier is in the closed position, enabling the system to lock itself without manual intervention. This eliminates the need for manual latches and reduces device complexity while maintaining the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical latching operations with an automated biasing mechanism that uses spring force to engage the blocking member with the blocking structure, substituting complex manual mechanical systems with a simpler automated mechanical system.
2Ease of repair
If the carrier includes a manually operable latch, then the locking function is reliable, but the ease of repair and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a separable component that can be easily removed from the housing when in the open position, allowing the biasing device and blocking member to be accessed and replaced without tool-assisted disassembly of the entire housing. This segmentation maintains reliability while significantly improving ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing device and blocking member are extracted as accessible components within the carrier assembly, allowing them to be removed and replaced by simply taking out the carrier from the housing, thereby facilitating maintenance without requiring housing disassembly.
3Productivity
If many key storage devices are installed, then the security coverage is improved, but the installation time and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is pre-configured with the blocking member and biasing device during manufacturing, so that during installation, only the carrier needs to be inserted into the housing without requiring on-site assembly or tool-assisted installation of internal components. This preliminary preparation significantly speeds up installation productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member, biasing device, and carrier are merged into a single pre-assembled unit, eliminating the need for separate installation steps for each component and enabling rapid installation by simply inserting the integrated carrier assembly into the housing.
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 device provides a simple, durable, and reliable key storage solution that facilitates easy installation, maintenance, and secure operation, reducing complexity and maintenance requirements while ensuring secure key access.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing device arranged to bias the blocking member into engagement with the blocking structure in the closed position
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage device (10) for storing a key comprising a base structure (32) for being fastened to a wall or door, the base structure having a securing structure (92); a housing (12, 38); at least one securing element (66) arranged to adopt a released state (90) where the housing is allowed to be released by disengagement between the at least one securing element and the securing structure, and a secured state (96) where the housing is secured to the base structure by engagement between the at least one securing element and the securing structure; and a carrier (18) for carrying a key movable relative to the housing between a closed position (20) and an open position (26), wherein the at least one securing element is arranged to be switched from the released state to the secured state by movement of the carrier from the open position towards the closed position.