Key Switch Housing with Snap-In Locking Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key switches are costly to manufacture and assemble, requiring multiple components and fastening elements, which can lead to unauthorized opening due to the complexity of their design.
Innovation Solution
A two-part housing design where the front panel is integrated into the front part, with a locking projection on the rear wall that secures the lock cylinder, allowing for assembly without screws, using a combination of metal and plastic materials to enhance security and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components and fastening elements are used for the housing, then the housing structure is more stable and secure, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple housing components into a two-part housing structure consisting of a front part and a rear wall. The front panel is integrated into the front part, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements. The locking projection on the rear wall integrates the locking function directly into the housing structure, reducing the number of parts while maintaining structural stability and security.
2Reliability
If multiple components and fastening elements are used for the housing, then the housing structure is more stable and secure, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into a simplified two-part housing structure. The front panel is integrated into the front part, eliminating separate manufacturing and assembly steps. The locking projection is formed as an integral part of the rear wall, reducing the need for additional fastening elements and lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining housing stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking projection on the rear wall automatically secures the lock cylinder when it is in the upper vertical position, preventing unauthorized opening without requiring additional fastening elements or complex assembly procedures. This self-securing mechanism reduces manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a separate front panel is attached to the housing, then the housing structure is more stable, but the assembly process requires additional fastening elements and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The front panel is integrated into the front part of the housing, forming a unified component. This integration eliminates the need for separate fastening elements and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining the structural stability and composition of the front panel.
4Reliability
If additional fastening elements such as screws are used, then the housing assembly is more secure, but the manufacturing cost and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking projection on the rear wall integrates the locking function directly into the housing structure, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements like screws. This design maintains assembly security while significantly reducing assembly time and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking projection automatically secures the lock cylinder when it is in the upper vertical position, providing a self-securing mechanism that eliminates the need for additional fastening elements and reduces assembly time.
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 design significantly reduces manufacturing costs and assembly complexity while preventing unauthorized opening by using a snap-in connection and a locking projection that blocks the lock cylinder when in its upper vertical position, ensuring secure and tool-resistant operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring tongue with a locking hook is formed on the rear wall and can be locked in a locking recess in the front part
Data Source
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AI summary
A key switch has a two-part housing, wherein a rear wall of the housing is provided with a one-piece molded locking projection for a bit of the key switch's locking cylinder.