Locking device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for slide rail assemblies, such as those used in furniture, require mechanical structures for manual unlocking during power outages or electronic component failures, which can be inconvenient and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A smart locking device with a control module using electromagnets to transition between locking and unlocking states based on signals from a communication device, allowing the second object to be opened by pushing from a retracted position without the need for additional manual unlocking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical manual unlocking mechanism is added to allow unlocking during power outages or electronic failures, then the reliability of the locking device is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device uses the movement of the second object itself to trigger the unlocking mechanism. When the second object moves from the retracted position to the predetermined position, the second element automatically detects this movement and drives the first element to transition from locking state to unlocking state, eliminating the need for external manual intervention or complex backup mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical manual unlocking mechanisms with a movement-based triggering system. Instead of using mechanical keys, levers, or emergency release mechanisms, the system uses the positional movement of the second object to automatically trigger the unlocking state through the second element's detection and driving functions
2Ease of operation
If a manual release member is provided for emergency unlocking, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the unlocking function automatically by detecting the movement of the second object. The second element serves itself by using the positional information from the second object's movement to trigger the unlocking state, eliminating the need for separate manual release members
Solution Approach 2:
The second element serves multiple functions: it detects the position of the second object and simultaneously acts as the driving mechanism for unlocking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate emergency release components while maintaining ease of operation
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
Enables reliable and convenient operation of the locking device, ensuring the second object can be opened by pushing from a retracted position, even without continuous power or functional electronic components, eliminating the need for a manual unlocking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The control module uses electromagnets to transition between locking and unlocking states
Data Source
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AI summary
A locking device (20) is adapted for a first object (24) and a second object (26) that are movable with respect to each other. The locking device (20) includes a first element (60) and a second element (64). The first element (60) can be in a locking state (Y2) or an unlocking state (Y1). The second element (64) drives the first element (60) and thereby moves the first element (60) from the locking state (Y2) to the unlocking state (Y1) in response to the second object (26) being displaced with respect to the first object (24) from a retracted position (R) to a predetermined position (P) in an opening direction (D2).