Linear Lock Sidebar Cam Mechanism for Enhanced Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locks face limitations in providing secure and versatile access solutions, particularly in applications requiring high safety and security, as they often suffer from limited key coding possibilities, vulnerability to key replication, and susceptibility to picking and bumping.
Innovation Solution
A linearly-actuated lock design featuring a lock barrel with tumbler passageways, tumblers, and a sidebar with a cam surface and single-ramped projection, allowing for parallel displacement of tumblers and enhanced key coding possibilities without relying on key width, combined with a lock driver that is removably coupled to the lock cylinder, providing superior security and resistance to picking and bumping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lock designs are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the key coding possibilities are limited and security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: multiple independent tumblers (first, second, and third tumblers) with different geometries, a sidebar with specific engagement features, and a key with corresponding coded features. Each segment performs a specific function in the locking mechanism, allowing for increased security through combinatorial complexity while maintaining manufacturability of individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dimensional complexity by using tumblers with varying geometries (different shapes, sizes, and orientations) rather than simple linear variations. The first tumbler has a different geometry than the second and third tumblers, creating a multi-dimensional coding system that increases key possibilities beyond conventional single-dimension key cuts
2Reliability
If conventional key coding methods are used, then the key structure is simple, but the resistance to key replication and picking is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric geometries throughout the locking mechanism. The first tumbler has a different geometry from the second and third tumblers, the key features are asymmetrically positioned and shaped, and the sidebar engagement surfaces are non-uniform. This asymmetry makes the lock resistant to picking and bumping attacks while preventing simple key replication
Solution Approach 2:
Different local geometries are assigned to different tumblers and key features. Each tumbler has specific dimensional characteristics (length, width, orientation) that are locally optimized for its position in the mechanism. The key has locally varied features at different positions along its length, creating a coded sequence that enhances security
3Adaptability or versatility
If a lock driver is permanently integrated into the lock cylinder, then the structure is more robust, but the adaptability and ease of repair are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lock driver is designed with dynamic coupling to the lock cylinder through engagement features that allow for both secure operation and controlled disassembly. The driver can be removed and reinstalled, allowing for adaptability in lock configuration and ease of repair or replacement while maintaining structural robustness during normal operation
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 lock offers superior security through increased key coding possibilities, reduced key replication risks, and enhanced resistance to picking and bumping, while maintaining a compact design and ease of use, with the ability to withstand greater torque and offer master-keying capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
corresponding tumblers and tumbler springs
Implementation Method 2
The sidebar includes a cam surface slidable against at least one of the housing and the lock case when the lock barrel rotates between the locked state and the unlocked state
Implementation Method 3
a projection having a single-ramped surface that is received within the notch of each tumbler
Data Source
AI summary
A linearly-actuated lock including a housing, a lock case received within the housing along an axis, and a lock barrel rotatable relative to the lock case between a locked state and an unlocked state. The lock barrel includes tumblers and tumbler springs. The lock further includes a key insertable into the lock barrel to displace the tumblers relative to the lock barrel in a direction parallel to the axis and a sidebar extending through apertures of the lock barrel. The sidebar is engageable with a notch of the tumblers when the sidebar moves radially inward relative to the axis. The sidebar includes a cam surface slidable against at least one of the housing and the lock case when the lock barrel rotates. The sidebar also includes a projection having a single-ramped surface received within the notch of each tumbler when the lock barrel is in the unlocked state.