Keyless Barrel Lock Installation via Rotating Disk Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrel locks for utility boxes require a key for installation and pre-loading, which is inefficient, costly, and prone to security issues due to the need for a single key combination and potential unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable disk style barrel lock with a lock assembly featuring a cylinder, stem, torsion spring, and locking balls that allows for keyless installation by using a combination of axial and radial forces to position the locking balls within a lock receptacle, enabling secure locking without pre-loading in a split meter ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key is used to pre-load and install the barrel lock, then the lock can be securely installed in the meter ring, but the installation process becomes complex, time-consuming, and security risks increase due to key loss or theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the key from the installation process entirely. The barrel lock is pre-loaded into the meter ring during manufacturing without requiring a key, and field installation simply requires pushing the lock into place. This extraction of the key element eliminates security risks associated with key loss or theft while simplifying the installation procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrel lock is pre-loaded into the meter ring during the manufacturing process rather than requiring field installation with a key. This preliminary action ensures the lock is securely positioned before deployment, eliminating the need for complex field key operations while maintaining security integrity.
2Reliability
If a key is required for installation, then the lock can be securely activated, but installation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the key requirement entirely from the installation process, the patent eliminates the multiple steps involving key insertion, activation, and removal. The lock is simply pushed into the meter ring and automatically secures itself, dramatically increasing installation speed while maintaining secure installation through the pre-loaded design.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrel lock is designed to self-secure when pushed into the meter ring without requiring external key activation. The lock mechanism automatically engages and secures itself in place, eliminating the need for manual key operations and enabling rapid installation by utility personnel.
3Ease of operation
If a single key combination is used for all locks, then installation is simplified, but security vulnerability increases due to key loss or theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the key element from the system entirely, removing both the simplicity of using a single key combination and the security vulnerability of key loss or theft. The keyless design maintains ease of operation through simple push-in installation while fundamentally improving security by removing the single point of failure that a master key represents.
4Adaptability or versatility
If plunger style barrel locks are used, then various lock mechanisms can be achieved, but the number of configurations is limited and unauthorized access may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotatable disk mechanism within the barrel that can be rotated to different positions, dynamically changing the alignment of internal components and creating multiple locking configurations. This dynamic rotation capability provides versatile lock mechanisms while maintaining security, as each rotational position creates a unique internal configuration that resists unauthorized access.
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
Facilitates faster, cost-effective installation of barrel locks without the need for a key, enhancing security by preventing unauthorized access and simplifying the installation process for utility meter boxes.
Implementation Method 1
A compression spring received about the stem portion biases the at least one locking ball towards a distal end of the stem
Implementation Method 2
a stem portion operatively connected to the cylinder portion and torsion spring operatively attached to the first and second lock portions, wherein the stem portion is capable of biased rotational movement independent of the cylinder portion
Data Source
AI summary
A lock assembly includes a cylinder portion having an open end which receives a key. The assembly further includes a stem portion operatively connected to the cylinder portion and torsion spring operatively attached to the first and second lock portions, wherein the stem portion is capable of biased rotational movement independent of the cylinder portion. The lock assembly also includes at least one locking ball received atop the stem portion, the at least one locking ball being extendable and retractable from at least one slot in a housing of the lock assembly. A compression spring received about the stem portion biases the at least one locking ball towards a distal end of the stem. During installation into a lock receptacle, the locking ball is urged radially against the stem, causing the stem to rotate against the bias of the torsion spring, as well as urged axially rearward within the slot against the bias of the compression spring. In this position, the locking ball is positioned above a relieved area of the stem, permitting the locking ball to retract into the housing.