Lockable Enclosure Compressible Member Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockable enclosures are vulnerable to unauthorized access through forced manipulation of user-operable buttons or levers, which can lead to damage to locking components and compromise security.
Innovation Solution
A locking arrangement featuring a latch assembly, a locking mechanism, and a user-operable opening member connected by a compressible member, which prevents unauthorized forced movement by compressing without damaging the locking components when excessive force is applied, and allows authorized access when the correct combination is entered.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user operable opening member is connected directly to the latch assembly, then the opening member can effectively move the latch assembly to open the enclosure, but unauthorized users can force the opening member to damage locking components and compromise security
Solution Approach 1:
A compressible member is introduced as an intermediary between the opening member and the latch assembly. This mediator allows the opening member to move freely during forced manipulation without transmitting excessive force to the latch assembly, while still enabling effective operation during authorized access when the locking mechanism is in the correct state.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible member provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing excessive force applied to the opening member during unauthorized access attempts. This cushioning effect prevents the force from being transmitted to the latch assembly and locking components, protecting them from damage before the harmful effect can occur.
2Strength
If the opening member is rigidly connected to the latch assembly, then force applied to the opening member can reliably move the latch, but excessive force will damage locking components
Solution Approach 1:
The compressible member changes the mechanical parameter of force transmission between the opening member and latch assembly. It allows sufficient force transmission for authorized operation while limiting and absorbing excessive force through compression, thereby preventing damage to locking components during forced manipulation.
3Reliability
If the opening member is isolated from the latch assembly, then locking components are protected from damage, but the opening member cannot effectively open the enclosure
Solution Approach 1:
The compressible member serves as an intermediary that maintains the functional connection between the opening member and latch assembly while providing protection. It transmits necessary operational force during authorized access but isolates the latch assembly from damaging excessive force during forced manipulation.
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
Enhances security by preventing unauthorized access and protecting locking components from damage, ensuring secure operation even under excessive force attempts while maintaining authorized entry functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The opening member is operatively connected to the latch assembly by a compressible member, such that when the locking mechanism is in the locked condition, movement of the opening member to the opening position compresses the compressible member without moving the latch assembly out of the latching position
Data Source
AI summary
A locking arrangement includes a latch assembly, a locking mechanism, and a user operable opening member. The locking mechanism holds the latch assembly in a latching position when the locking mechanism is in a locked condition and allows the latch assembly to move to an unlatching position when the locking mechanism is in an unlocked condition. The opening member is movable from a normal position to an opening position. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked condition, movement of the opening member to the opening position moves the latch assembly from the latching position to the unlatching position. The opening member is operatively connected to the latch assembly by a compressible member, such that when the locking mechanism is in the locked condition, movement of the opening member to the opening position compresses the compressible member without moving the latch assembly out of the latching position.