Keyless locking tool chest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional key-based tool chests require replacement of the entire lock system if keys are lost or stolen and do not prevent unauthorized duplication of keys.
Innovation Solution
A keyless tool chest with a combination lock or electronic keypad that allows users to create a secret lock combination, eliminating the need for traditional keys and preventing unauthorized access by using a locking mechanism with rotating discs or a turn dial connected to horizontal and vertical bars that secure and unlock the drawers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional key-based locking system is used, then the locking mechanism is simple and reliable, but the security is compromised when keys are lost or stolen requiring complete lock replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-based locking system with a keyless locking mechanism that uses electronic or magnetic fields to authenticate and actuate the lock. This substitution eliminates physical keys that can be lost or stolen, thereby improving reliability while avoiding the need for complete lock replacement when access issues occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the authentication parameter from physical key insertion to alternative methods such as electronic codes, magnetic cards, or biometric data. This parameter change allows the locking system to maintain reliability without the vulnerabilities of traditional keys, and enables reconfiguration of access credentials without replacing the entire lock mechanism.
2Device complexity
If traditional keys are used, then the locking mechanism is simple, but unauthorized duplication of keys can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical key system with electronic, magnetic, or biometric authentication mechanisms. These systems are inherently more secure against unauthorized duplication because they use complex authentication protocols, encrypted data, or unique biological characteristics that cannot be easily copied or replicated by unauthorized persons.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements authentication systems that verify unique identifiers or biometric patterns without allowing physical copying. Electronic codes, magnetic card data, and biometric templates are verified through cryptographic or pattern-matching processes that prevent unauthorized replication, thereby eliminating the key duplication vulnerability while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Reliability
If keyless locking system is implemented, then security is improved by allowing custom combinations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical key systems with electronic or magnetic field-based authentication mechanisms. These keyless systems provide enhanced security through customizable codes, biometric verification, or encrypted magnetic cards, while the electronic components integrate seamlessly into the locking mechanism, managing complexity through modular design and microcontroller-based control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal keyless locking platform that can accommodate multiple authentication methods (electronic codes, magnetic cards, biometric sensors) within a single integrated system. This multi-functionality allows the same basic locking mechanism to serve different security requirements without increasing overall system complexity, as the authentication module can be configured for various access methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A keyless locking tool chest has a plurality of drawers that can be locked and unlocked with a keyless lock. The keyless tool chest comprises a plurality of drawers, a keyless lock, a turn dial and a locking mechanism connected to the keyless lock and the turn dial that locks and unlocks the plurality of drawers. The keyless lock comprises a combination lock having a plurality of rotating discs with inscribed numerical notches. The locking mechanism comprises a horizontal bar connected to the keyless lock and the turn dial at its center, and a pair of vertical bars at its ends. Upon entering the correct numerical combination in the keyless lock, the keyless tool chest becomes unlocked, the turn dial becomes rotatable and the horizontal bar becomes movable together with the pair of vertical bars, such that the plurality of drawers can be pulled out of the tool chest.