Locking Device Automatic Code Reset Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock devices with combination locks face security risks due to code-finding functions that allow unauthorized access to personal opening codes when the master key is used, and require significant administrative effort to reset lost codes, especially in environments with frequent user changes.
Innovation Solution
The lock device automatically resets to a factory-set opening code when the secondary lock is actuated, with clutch discs disengaging from setting wheels during the opening rotary movement, ensuring the personal code is not readable and simplifying management during frequent user changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a code-finding function is provided in the locking device, then the opening code can be read for reset purposes, but unauthorized persons can also read personal access codes using the master key creating a security vulnerability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by automatically resetting the combination lock to a predetermined opening code immediately upon emergency opening with the master key. The clutch discs disengage from the adjusting wheels during the opening rotary movement, causing the dials to automatically jump to the predetermined code position without requiring separate code-finding or resetting operations. This eliminates the security vulnerability of readable personal codes while maintaining reset functionality.
2Ease of operation
If probing tools or fixed probing pins are used to read opening codes, then code finding is possible, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming especially with frequent user turnover
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the combination lock to automatically reset itself to a predetermined opening code when the master key opens the secondary lock. The clutch mechanism automatically disengages the clutch discs from the adjusting wheels during opening, causing the dials to jump to the predetermined code without requiring any code-finding tools or manual intervention. This eliminates time-consuming probing operations and enables rapid reset even with frequent user turnover.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the opening code is automatically erased during opening movement, then security against code spying is improved, but the ability to find lost codes for resetting becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the clutch mechanism to automatically reset the dials to a predetermined opening code during the opening movement itself. When the master key actuates the secondary lock, the clutch discs disengage from the adjusting wheels, causing the dials to automatically jump to the predetermined code position. This simultaneously achieves code erasure (security) and code revelation (reset capability) in a single automated action, eliminating the trade-off between these conflicting requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device consisting of a combination lock (1) and a secondary lock (2) operated by a master key. Known locking devices of this type allow users to set a personal code. To make the combination lock usable again in case of a lost code, or to reset it to the factory settings, these locking devices have a code-finding function. However, the code-finding function poses a significant security risk because it allows the personal opening codes to be read, and is also usually very cumbersome and time-consuming. The new locking device is intended to enable a quick and easy reset of the combination lock to the factory settings, whereby finding the last valid opening code is neither necessary nor possible.The proposed locking device features an adjustment mechanism that allows the adjusting wheels and associated clutch discs to be reset to a factory-set position, regardless of their current setting. The proposed locking device is particularly suitable for locking containers and cabinets subject to centralized management and frequent user changes.