Lock Actuator Structure for Aligned Opening Direction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional lock devices have a reverse operation direction that affects the smoothness and convenience of operation, requiring redesign to align the moving direction of the operation member with the opening direction.

Innovation Solution

A lock device structure with an actuator body, linking member, and slide body, where the operation member is designed to move in the axial direction of the actuator body, incorporating an elastic member to facilitate smooth operation, and the actuator body is securely engaged with the case body through a locating section and subsidiary locating section.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operation member is designed to move in the axial direction of the actuator body, then the operation direction aligns with the opening direction improving smoothness and convenience, but the structural complexity increases due to the need for elastic member and locating sections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmoothness of operationVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The actuator body is divided into functional sections including a pivoted end, free end, and locating section. The operation member is segmented into a base body, main section, and subsidiary section with distinct functions. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling the operation member to move smoothly in the axial direction while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic member is disposed within the notch section of the actuator body, and the operation member is nested within the same notch section. The locating section of the operation member engages with the subsidiary locating section of the case body, creating a nested arrangement where smaller components are housed within larger structures. This nesting reduces overall spatial requirements while maintaining the improved operation direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If the actuator body is pivotally connected with the case body in cooperation with an elastic unit, then the actuator body can reciprocally move smoothly, but the device complexity increases compared to fixed connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereciprocal movement smoothnessVSAvoidconnection structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the actuator body and case body is made dynamic through pivotal connection rather than fixed attachment. The elastic unit provides dynamic support that allows the actuator body to reciprocally move (pivot) between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic connection enables smooth operation while the elastic unit absorbs movement variations, reducing the need for additional complex constraint mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic unit automatically provides the necessary force for reciprocal movement of the actuator body without requiring external actuation. When the operation member is moved, the elastic unit self-adjusts to facilitate the pivoting motion, eliminating the need for additional springs, motors, or complex mechanical advantage systems to achieve smooth reciprocal movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 redesigned structure allows for seamless operation by aligning the operation direction with the opening direction, enhancing the convenience and smoothness of actuator and slide body movement.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member disposed in the notch section, wherein the elastic member is for making the operation member reciprocally move in an axial direction of the actuator body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a pivoted end pivotally connected with the case body in cooperation with an elastic unit, whereby the actuator body can reciprocally move

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12563683B2Lock device structure
Publication Date: 2026.02.24 FIRST DOME
  • US12563683B2 patent drawing
  • US12563683B2 patent drawing
  • US12563683B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lock device structure includes an assembly of a case body and an actuator body, a linking member and a slide body mounted on the case body. The actuator body has two arm sections and a notch section positioned between the two arm sections. An operation member and an elastic member are disposed in the notch section. The elastic member serves to make the operation member reciprocally move in an axial direction of the actuator body. The linking member has a first end pivotally connected with the actuator body (or the operation member) and a second end connected with the slide body. When an operator pulls (and pushes) the operation member to move, the actuator body is permitted to move from a closed position to an open position to drive the linking member and the slide body to move.