Lever Handle Lock Assembly with Internal Key Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Lever type handles require a large area for assembly and have an ill appearance due to keyways or holes, making it inconvenient to change between key and non-key structures, and resulting in non-uniform appearances.

Innovation Solution

A lock assembly with a key module positioned inside the handle portion, using a rotary shaft and flexible rotation transmitter to lock or unlock the door, eliminating the need for external keyways and allowing for various key module designs, including a cylinder shape, groove for coins, or grip portions, which can be easily operated and assembled.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a key way or hole is formed at the peripheral portion of the lever type handle, then the door can be locked, but a large area is necessary for assembly and the appearance becomes ill

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidassembly area
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The key module is nested inside the handle portion, with the key insertion direction oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction of the handle. This allows the key way to be positioned within the existing handle structure rather than requiring additional peripheral space, thereby maintaining the locking function while eliminating the need for large assembly area and preserving appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a key way is formed at the peripheral portion of the lever type handle, then the door can be locked, but the appearance becomes ill

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidappearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The key module is nested inside the handle portion, concealing the key way within the handle's existing structure. The key insertion direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the handle, allowing the key module to be positioned at the end portion of the handle portion, thereby maintaining the locking function while preserving the appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If the key module is positioned at the peripheral portion of the lever type handle, then the locking function is achieved, but the entire handle must be disassembled to change between key and non-key structures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidstructure change convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lock assembly is segmented into independent modules: the key module, rotary shaft, and rotation transmitter. The key module can be independently removed or replaced by simply detaching it from the rotation transmitter, without requiring disassembly of the entire handle. This modular design enables convenient switching between key and non-key structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If the key module is positioned at the peripheral portion of the lever type handle, then the locking function is achieved, but the handles cannot have uniform appearances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidappearance uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The key module is designed as a universal component that can be adapted to different handle types. The key insertion direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the handle, and the key module is positioned at the end portion of the handle portion, allowing it to be integrated into various handle designs without compromising appearance uniformity. The modular design allows the same key module to be used across different handle styles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This design simplifies the assembly process, reduces manufacturing costs, enhances the appearance by hiding the key module, and allows for uniformity in handle shapes, making it convenient to switch between key and non-key functions, and suitable for various door types.

Implementation Method 1

The rotation transmitter may include a flexible shaft.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlexible shaft:

Data Source

PatentUS9003841B2Lever type handle and lock assembly for the same
Publication Date: 2015.04.14 KOH YOUNGKYUN
  • US9003841B2 patent drawing
  • US9003841B2 patent drawing
  • US9003841B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lock assembly for a lever type handle is disclosed. In the lock assembly for the lever type handle according to an aspect to the invention, the lever type handle is for opening and closing a door by a rotation of a handle portion. The lock assembly includes a key module rotated by a key member, wherein the key module being positioned in the handle portion, a rotary shaft rotated by a rotation of the key module and locking or unlocking the door through a dead lock member, and a rotation transmitter for transmitting the rotation of the key module to the rotary shaft.