Lock Mechanism with Curved Motion Module for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locks for electronic devices and storage devices have complex structures and high costs due to numerous movable elements, making them difficult to lock and unlock efficiently in limited spaces.
Innovation Solution
A lock with a base-mounted design featuring a lock plate and a motion module with a curved surface, allowing for vertical displacement through axial rotation, comprising a fixed portion, movable portion, and abutting portion, which adjusts the relative distance between the lock plate and the base, enabling easy locking and unlocking with a simple and compact structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lock structure is used to ensure security function, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases with numerous movable elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lock plate and motion module into a single integrated unit. The lock plate includes a fixed portion, movable portion, and abutting portion that work together, while the motion module integrates the curved surface mechanism with the lock plate structure. This merging eliminates numerous separate movable elements found in conventional locks, reducing structural complexity while maintaining the security function through the coordinated movement of the integrated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock plate serves multiple functions: it provides the locking surface, contains the movable portion for actuation, and includes the abutting portion that interacts with the curved surface. The motion module simultaneously provides the curved surface for vertical displacement conversion and the structural framework for the lock mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining reliable locking operation.
2Reliability
If a conventional lock with numerous movable elements is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the lock plate and motion module into an integrated structure with fewer separate parts, the patent reduces manufacturing steps, assembly operations, and component inventory. The fixed portion, movable portion, and abutting portion are formed as part of a unified lock plate structure, eliminating the need for multiple discrete movable elements that would require separate manufacturing and assembly processes, thereby reducing production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
While reducing overall complexity, the patent strategically segments the lock mechanism into functional zones within the integrated structure: the fixed portion for stability, the movable portion for actuation, and the abutting portion for interaction with the curved surface. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function while being manufactured as part of a single cost-effective structure.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact lock structure is used to save space, then the volume is reduced, but the ease of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the curved surface in the motion module that converts horizontal axial rotation into vertical displacement. This dimensional transformation allows the compact lock mechanism to achieve the necessary movement range for easy operation within a reduced volume. The abutting portion rides along the curved surface, translating rotational input into vertical locking motion, enabling space-efficient design without compromising operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved surface of the motion module provides a geometric path that efficiently converts rotational motion into vertical displacement. This curvature allows the compact lock to achieve the required movement amplitude for easy locking and unlocking operations within a smaller footprint, as the curved path maximizes the mechanical advantage and movement range within limited space.
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 solution provides a cost-effective and space-efficient locking mechanism that simplifies the locking and unlocking process, addressing the complexity and cost issues of prior art locks by allowing easy operation in limited spaces with a reduced number of components.
Implementation Method 1
The motion module has a curved surface facing the lock plate. The curved surface comprises a first surface and a second surface. The lock plate abuts against the first surface and has a first distance from the base when the lock is in the close status, and abuts against the second surface and has a second distance, which is greater than the first distance, from the base when the lock is in the far status.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a lock and the application thereof. The lock is applied on a base having an inner surface and an outer surface. The lock comprises a locking plate and a motion module. The motion module has a curved surface facing the locking plate. The curved surface has a first surface and a second surface. A main feature of the present invention is that the lock has a close status and a far status. The locking plate contacts with the first surface and has a first distance from the base in the close status, and contacts with the second surface of the base and has a second distance, which is greater than the first distance, from the base in the far status. The invention has the advantages of low cost and simplicity, and solves the long lasting problem of the prior arts.