Combination Lock Core Removal via Knob Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical combination cam locks with override key access face challenges in efficiently and conveniently re-keying when the override key is lost or stolen, often requiring costly lock dismantling for re-keying.
Innovation Solution
A combination lock design featuring a removable core cylinder covered by the knob, accessible via a special removal key or tool, allowing for easy replacement of the core without disassembling the lock, using a longer key to pull a pin or wafer for core removal and reinsertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the mechanical key cylinder is covered by the knob (hiding the key cylinder), then the aesthetic appearance and integration are improved, but the core becomes inaccessible for removal and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the core removal function from the traditional dismantling process by providing a specific removal tool that can access and remove the core through the knob without disassembling the lock housing. The removal tool engages with the core via a removal hole in the knob, allowing the core to be pulled out while the knob remains attached to the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a removal tool as an intermediary device that mediates between the user and the core. This tool has a removal hole that aligns with the core's removal hole, allowing the user to insert the tool through the knob, engage the core, and remove it without dismantling the lock's external structure.
2Reliability
If the override key is lost or stolen, then security is compromised, but re-keying requires costly and time-consuming lock dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lock into separable components: the housing with knob and the removable core. This segmentation allows the core to be independently removed and replaced without affecting the housing or knob, enabling quick re-keying when security compromise occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares the core for easy removal by pre-configuring a removal hole that aligns with the knob and providing a specific removal tool. This preliminary design arrangement allows immediate core removal when needed, without requiring any disassembly or preparation work at the time of re-keying.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locks are deployed in a facility, then security coverage is improved, but re-keying all locks becomes costly and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal core design that can be removed and replaced in multiple locks using the same removal tool and procedure. This universality allows facility managers to efficiently re-key all locks in a facility by simply replacing cores rather than dismantling entire lock assemblies, significantly improving re-keying productivity across multiple units.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination lock, such as a dial combination cam lock, has a mechanical key override, the mechanical key extending through the manual knob of the cam lock. For a lost mechanical key situation, or to change the mechanical key, a special key or device can be inserted to enable the knob and key core or plug to be rotated to a further position not normally available. In this position the key, knob and core can be removed, then replaced with a different key and core, preferably using the same knob.