Locking Cylinder Connecting Element Dual Position Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking cylinders are complex to assemble and adjust due to intricate mechanisms involving connecting elements and spring elements, making them difficult to align and secure properly.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a connecting element with two latching positions, allowing easy adjustment and secure coupling of the locking bit relative to the core, featuring symmetrical components, recesses, and a spring-loaded locking mechanism for simplified assembly and alignment, with a guide system that prevents misalignment and facilitates tool-free assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connecting element with spring element and blind hole is used to couple the locking bit to the core, then the locking mechanism can be secured, but the assembly and adjustment becomes very complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into functionally distinct segments: a first locking position with a first locking recess for secure coupling, and a second locking position with a second locking recess for adjustment. This segmentation allows the same component to provide both security and adjustability without requiring separate complex mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is designed to be movable between two locking positions, transitioning from a secure coupled state to an adjustable state. This dynamic capability allows the locking mechanism to switch between being fixed and adjustable, eliminating the need for permanently complex assembly structures.
2Reliability
If the connecting element is held by a stud screw as disclosed in EP 0 874 113 A1, then the connecting element can be secured, but adjusting the connecting element becomes very complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element transitions between a fixed secured state (first locking position) and a movable adjustment state (second locking position). This dynamic design allows easy adjustment by simply moving the connecting element to the second position, eliminating the need for complex stud screw operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable connecting element acts as an intermediary between the locked and adjustable states. By moving this single element between two positions, the system mediates between the need for security and the need for easy adjustment, without requiring complex intermediate mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If the connecting element requires precise alignment during assembly, then the locking positions can be accurately established, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is pre-configured with two distinct locking recesses at predetermined positions. This preliminary configuration ensures that when the connecting element is installed, the locking bit automatically aligns with the correct core component recess, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual locking recess design allows the assembly process to be self-aligning. The geometry of the locking recesses and corresponding core component recesses automatically guides the connecting element into the correct position, making the assembly process self-correcting and eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
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
This design significantly simplifies the assembly and adjustment process, ensuring reliable and easy alignment of the locking bit with the core, reducing complexity and potential malfunctions, while maintaining a compact and cost-effective structure.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element for preloading the locking means against the connecting element
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
A lock cylinder with a core (2) rotatable within a housing (1) and with a locking bolt (4) has a connecting element (5) that can be locked in two positions. In one of the positions, the locking bolt (4) is positively engaged with the core (2). In the other position of the connecting element (5), the positive engagement between the locking bolt (4) and the core (2) is released. This makes the lock cylinder particularly easy to install.