Locking Device Linear Actuation Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices require rotary movements for unlocking, which limits their design flexibility and makes them unsuitable for being entirely enclosed within a box or handle, as they need a cylindrical slot for key insertion and rotation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part housing core design that converts linear movement of the unlocking means into rotary or other types of movement, eliminating the need for rotary key insertion and allowing the locking device to be fitted entirely inside a box or handle, using a first housing core part for receiving the unlocking means and a second sleeve-like part that rotates, with a driver element converting linear to rotary motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional cylindrical lock cylinder core is used, then the locking device can be operated with a key, but the device cannot be fitted entirely inside a box or handle due to the need for rotary movement and cylindrical slot
Solution Approach 1:
The housing core is divided into multiple parts: a first housing core part that receives the unlocking means and a second sleeve-like part that encloses the first part. This segmentation allows the locking device to be compact while maintaining functionality, as each part can be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring rotary movement of the unlocking means (traditional approach), the invention inverts the approach by using linear movement of the unlocking means to actuate the unlocking mechanism. This inversion eliminates the need for a cylindrical slot and allows the device to be fitted entirely inside a box or handle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rotary movement of the unlocking means is required, then the locking mechanism can be actuated, but the device design is limited and cannot be completely enclosed within a box
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional unlocking mechanism by replacing rotary movement with linear movement of the unlocking means. This allows the locking device to be completely enclosed within a box or handle, significantly improving design flexibility and adaptability for various applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from rotary movement (circular dimension) to linear movement (straight line dimension). The driver element converts the linear movement of the first housing core part into rotary movement of the second housing core part, effectively using another dimension to achieve the same functional result with different spatial requirements.
3Volume of moving object
If a multi-part housing core design is used to enable linear movement actuation, then the device can be compact and enclosed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing core is segmented into a first part and a second sleeve-like part, with each part having specific functions. The driver element connects these parts and enables the conversion of linear movement to rotary movement. This segmentation allows the device to be compact while managing complexity through functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second sleeve-like housing core part encloses the first housing core part, creating a nested structure. This nesting arrangement allows the multi-part design to maintain compactness, as the components are arranged concentrically rather than requiring additional external space.
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 simple unlocking without rotary movement, allowing the locking device to be compactly designed for various applications, including mailboxes and safes, with enhanced stability and security through a rectangular base area and adjustable actuating paths, and can be used with or without electronic key systems.
Implementation Method 1
the linear movement causes a driver element to move from a first end position into a second end position in the groove, which converts the linear movement into a rotary movement of the second housing core part
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (1; 1a; 1b; 1c), in particular for locking a box provided with a flap, which comprises a housing (2; 2a; 2b; 2c) with a housing core (5; 5a; 5b; 5c) and at least one locking element (11; 11a; 11b; 11c) which can be moved by an unlocking means (7; 7a; 7c) from a locked position in which the housing core (5; 5a; 5b; 5c) is immovable to an unlocked position in which the housing core (5; 5a; 5b; 5c) is movable relative to the housing (2; 2a; 2b; 2c). Advantageously, a linear movement of the unlocking means (7; 7a; 7c) actuates a release means (23; 26; 26b; 42). It is advantageous that no rotary movement of a suitable release means is required to unlock the locking device.