Lock Key System One-Piece Locking Bolt

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock-key systems are complex and costly due to multiple parts, making them more expensive and vulnerable.

Innovation Solution

A simplified lock-key system with a one-piece locking bit and a flat key tip that directly engages with the locking bit, featuring axially projecting elements for coupling, eliminating additional moving parts and integrating the locking cam with the coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a coupling is used to connect the key to the locking bolt, then the locking function can be achieved, but the number of parts increases, making the product more expensive and more prone to failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking function reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of parts

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the coupling function directly into the locking bolt by providing a drive lug that protrudes axially from the locking bolt. This eliminates the need for a separate coupling component, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining the locking function. The drive lug is integrally formed with the locking bolt, creating a more reliable system with fewer potential failure points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple parts are used for assembling the lock cylinder, then the locking mechanism can be more flexible, but the manufacturing cost increases and the product becomes more prone to failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking mechanism flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The locking bolt is designed as a single-piece component with the coupling function (drive lug) integrated directly into it. This reduces assembly complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining the flexibility needed for the locking mechanism to perform its function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking bolt serves multiple functions: it provides the locking action, contains the integrated coupling (drive lug) for key engagement, and eliminates the need for separate coupling components. This multi-functionality reduces part count and manufacturing complexity while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional moving parts are included in the clutch, then the locking mechanism can achieve more functions, but the device becomes more complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking function capabilityVSAvoidclutch component count

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clutch and locking bolt are merged into a single integrated component. The drive lug that protrudes from the locking bolt serves as both the coupling element and the clutch mechanism, eliminating the need for additional moving parts while maintaining the capability to achieve double-sided locking and freewheel functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3795785B1Lock and key system

Publication Date: 2023.10.04 ASSA ABLOY SICHERHEITSTECHNIK GMBH

Figure 1~6

AI summary

1. Lock-key system. 2.1. The invention relates to a lock-key system with a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing and a locking bolt which can be coupled with a flat key that can be inserted into the cylinder core to perform a common rotational action that triggers the locking function. 2.2. Here, the key tip engages directly with the one-piece locking bolt in a form-fitting manner and is thus couplingable.