Lock Cylinder Clutch Support Element for Reduced Key Return Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking cylinders with a coupling adapter experience increased friction and blockage due to the return force acting on the key when the cylinder is closed, which is problematic for escape door gear locks.
Innovation Solution
A locking cylinder with a coupling adapter that includes a support element to reduce or eliminate the return force by supporting the coupling adapter on the cylinder housing surface during the locking process, utilizing a mirror-symmetrical design and wedge-shaped geometry to ensure reliable operation and prevent blockage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the coupling adapter is designed to push the cam freewheel under load (FZG function), then the locking cylinder can disengage under load, but the key experiences increased return force that causes friction and blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the force transmission path by introducing a support element that divides the load-bearing function. The support element carries the return force independently from the key, allowing the key to remain engaged while the cam disengages under load. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by isolating the harmful return force from the key.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element acts as an intermediary component between the coupling adapter and the cylinder housing. It mediates the force transmission by providing an alternative path for the return force through the locking bit groove, preventing this force from acting on the key while maintaining the FZG function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the key is pushed out by return force during closing, then the cam can freewheel under load, but friction increases and cylinder blockage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The support element segments the operational phases by providing continuous support during key insertion and removal. This allows the cam to freewheel under load while the key remains stable in the keyway, preventing the pushing-out effect that causes blockage.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is positioned in advance within the locking bit groove to provide immediate support when the key is inserted. This preliminary positioning prevents the return force from displacing the key during the closing operation, ensuring smooth operation throughout the cycle.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the coupling adapter is supported on the cylinder housing surface, then return force on the key is reduced, but additional structural elements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The support element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it reduces return force on the key, guides the coupling adapter's axial movement, and provides a bearing surface for the locking bit groove. This multi-functionality justifies the additional structural element by consolidating several requirements into a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is strategically positioned only where needed - at the interaction point between the coupling adapter and the locking bit groove. This localized approach minimizes the addition of structural complexity while achieving the force reduction goal precisely where the harmful return force acts.
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 ensures reliable operation of the locking cylinder by preventing blockages and maintaining the FZG function, allowing the locking cam to disengage under load while reducing wear and ensuring smooth operation.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling adapter (7) has a support element (8) with which the coupling adapter (7) is supported on a cylinder housing surface (17) of the locking bit groove (6) during the locking process
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking cylinder (2), in particular a double-profile cylinder, comprising a cylinder housing (3) in which at least one cylinder core (4) is rotatably mounted, a locking bit (5) which is rotatably mounted within a locking bit groove (6) arranged on the cylinder housing (3), and a coupling adapter (7) arranged between the at least one cylinder core (4) and the locking bit (5), which is mounted in the cylinder core (4) in a rotationally fixed and axially displaceable manner, wherein the locking bit (5) can be coupled to a key (18) which can be inserted into a key channel of the at least one cylinder core (4) in order to carry out a common locking process which triggers the locking function, in that the coupling adapter (7) can be brought into positive engagement with the locking bit (5) by an axial displacement of the coupling adapter (7) caused by the key tip of the inserted key (18).The coupling adapter (7) has a support element (8) with which the coupling adapter (7) is supported on a cylinder housing surface (17) of the locking bit groove (6) when the locking process is carried out.