Keyless Reset Ring-Type Meter Lock with Quick-Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ring-type meter locks lack a quick-release mechanism and keyless reset capability, making them inconvenient for secure and efficient use in securing meters.
Innovation Solution
A novel ring-type meter lock design featuring a resilient ring with a latch unit and tongue mechanism that allows for keyless operation, utilizing a rotatable lock pin and cam slots for quick release and re-latching, enabling secure mounting and removal without a key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional lock mechanism is used in ring-type meter locks, then security against tampering is provided, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming requiring keys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the key-operated locking mechanism and replaces it with a push-button actuated lock pin system. The lock pin is withdrawn from the tongue by pushing the button, releasing the locking engagement without requiring a key, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining security through the resilient ring's tamper-resistant design
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient ring automatically returns to its original position after the lock pin is withdrawn, and the lock pin itself serves as both the locking element and the release mechanism through the button. The system performs the reset function automatically through the resilient nature of the ring, eliminating the need for external keys or complex resetting procedures
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented in ring-type meter locks, then tamper resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the resilient ring, the lock pin, the button, and the tongue. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply - the resilient ring provides tamper resistance, the lock pin provides locking engagement, the button provides release actuation, and the tongue provides the locking surface - reducing overall device complexity while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a key to turn and retract the lock pin, the invention inverts the operation by using a button that pushes the lock pin directly outward for release. This inversion simplifies the mechanism by eliminating the rotational motion and key interface, reducing device complexity while maintaining secure locking through the resilient ring's inherent tamper resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A ring-type meter lock comprising a ring, first and second ends on the ring, a lock housing on the first end, a slot in the lock housing, a latch unit in the lock housing, a lock pin on the latch unit enterable and withdrawable from the slot, a tongue on the second end enterable into the slot, an opening in the tongue receiving the lock pin, a key-receiving configuration in the latch unit, and the lock pin being rotatably supported for unlatching of the latch unit.