Lock Unit Shutter Element for Cylinder Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cylinder lock units in doors, particularly those of the uPVC type, are vulnerable to forced removal, allowing unauthorized access as the external end of the cylinder lock can be broken and manipulated to operate the locking mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A lock unit with a shutter element that occludes the channel when the cylinder lock is forcibly removed, featuring a pin and recess mechanism for installation and removal, and a spring-loaded shutter plate that blocks access to the interior of the lock unit, engaging with the locking mechanism to prevent operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cylinder lock barrel projects from the door for easy operation, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates because the projecting end can be broken and the cylinder lock forcibly removed
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter element is positioned in advance within the channel to block access to the locking mechanism. When the cylinder lock is forcibly removed, the shutter automatically moves to occlude the channel, preventing criminals from using tools like screwdrivers to manipulate the locking mechanism from the interior of the lock unit.
2Reliability
If the shutter element is always in position to block the channel, then security is improved, but ease of installation and legitimate maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter element is pre-positioned within the channel and held in an retracted state by restraining means during installation. After the lock unit is installed and the cylinder lock is positioned, the restraining means is removed or actuated, allowing the shutter to automatically move to its blocking position, ensuring security without complicating the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter element is designed to be movable between a retracted position (during installation and legitimate maintenance) and a blocking position (during normal operation or after forced removal). The restraining means allows dynamic control of the shutter's position, enabling it to be held back when needed and released when security is required.
3Reliability
If the shutter element is made resilient and biased to occlude the channel, then security against forced removal is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for resilient members and guiding structures
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter element is made resilient and biased by a spring to automatically move into the channel-blocking position when the cylinder lock is removed. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for complex external actuation systems, sensors, or power sources, achieving enhanced security through a simple, passive mechanical response to the removal of the cylinder lock.
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 shutter element effectively prevents access to the lock unit's interior and locking mechanism, even if the cylinder lock is forcibly removed, enhancing security by prolonging the time required for unauthorized entry and maintaining the lock in a secure state.
Implementation Method 1
The shutter element is preferably biased towards the position in which it occludes the channel in the lock unit. In other words, in normal use the shutter element is preferably prevented from occluding the channel by the presence of the cylinder lock, removal of the cylinder lock causing the shutter element to move to its operative position in which it occludes the channel. Biasing of the shutter element to its operative position is preferably brought about by means of a resilient member that acts upon the shutter element.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A lock unit (1) for installation in a door of the like, the lock unit being for use in association with a cylinder lock (5) and including a channel (29) within which the cylinder lock is, in use, received, wherein the lock unit comprises a shutter element (33) arranged to occlude the channel in the event that the cylinder lock is forcibly removed therefrom.