Locking Device Segmented Rotation Element Blocking Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices for securing items like backpacks and bags lack a secure, user-specific locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized access and is easy to use for daily transport security.
Innovation Solution
A locking device featuring a first and second connection carrier with a rotatable rotation element and elastic blocking heads, which can be locked or unlocked using a flat key element, allowing for a detachable connection that is secure against unauthorized unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking mechanism is used, then basic locking function is achieved, but user-specific security and prevention of unauthorized access is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a rotation element with multiple segments of different radii, multiple independent blocking heads positioned at different locations, and a flat key element with specific key tongues. Each segment serves a specific function in the locking sequence, allowing the mechanism to provide enhanced security through multiple blocking positions while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking heads are pre-positioned at specific locations around the rotation element's circumference, and the rotation element is pre-configured with segments of different radii. When the flat key is inserted, it automatically guides the rotation element through a specific rotational path that sequentially moves blocking heads from blocking positions to release positions. This preliminary configuration ensures that unauthorized rotation is prevented while allowing authorized unlocking with the correct key.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism with multiple blocking heads is implemented, then individualized security is achieved, but ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flat key element serves as an intermediary tool that mediates between the user and the complex locking mechanism. The key's specific key tongues are designed to fit into corresponding recesses on the rotation element, and when inserted, the key automatically guides the rotation element through the required rotational movement. This intermediary simplifies the user's task to merely inserting and rotating the key, while the complex multi-segment rotation element and blocking head coordination happens automatically through the key's guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation element is designed to be self-guiding through its segmented structure with different radii. When the flat key is inserted into the recesses, the geometry of the key and rotation element automatically determines the rotational path. The rotation element itself performs the complex coordination of moving multiple blocking heads sequentially without requiring external actuation mechanisms, making the operation simple for the user while achieving secure locking.
3Reliability
If blocking heads protrude into the inner region to block rotation, then locking reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking heads are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically change position between blocking and release states. The blocking heads can protrude into the inner region to block rotation when needed, and can be moved to release positions when the flat key is inserted. This dynamic positioning provides reliable rotation blocking when required while allowing easy unlocking, avoiding the need for complex fixed blocking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical coordination of multiple blocking heads is substituted by the simple insertion and rotation of the flat key element. Instead of requiring complex mechanical linkages or actuation mechanisms to coordinate the blocking heads, the geometry of the flat key and rotation element recesses automatically guides the entire unlocking sequence. The mechanical system is simplified by replacing complex coordination mechanisms with a straightforward key-based guidance system.
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
The locking device provides versatile usability with individualized security, allowing only authorized users to lock or unlock the connection carriers, effectively securing items against light forms of theft during transport.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of elastic blocking heads can be attached at the first connection carrier along a circumference of the inner region, wherein the blocking heads can be movable from a blocking position to a release position by mechanical pressure
Data Source
AI summary
Locking device having first and second combined connection carriers for establishing a detachable connection. A rotation element is rotatably attached at the first connection carrier and is provided in an inner region thereof. The inner region is centered with respect to a center axis and has a full radius. Elastic blocking heads are attached at the first connection carrier at the inner region, and are movable from a blocking to a release position. The rotation element includes segments extending up to the full radius and segments extending at a maximum up to a smaller inner radius. The segments extending up to the full radius move blocking heads into the release position and the segments extending up to the inner radius leave blocking heads in the blocking position. Key tongues move bordering ones of the blocking heads into the release position and allow rotation of the rotation element.