Locking Element for Drainage Grate Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainage systems are vulnerable to theft and vandalism due to the ease with which grates can be removed, particularly in public areas, as they are not adequately secured.
Innovation Solution
A locking element comprising a spring element kept between a cover element and a spring support element, actuated by an actuating element, which increases the rigidity of the spring ends to prevent forced removal, ensuring the grate remains securely attached to the drainage channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a grate is simply placed on the channel body, then the drainage system is easy to assemble and disassemble, but the grate can be easily removed and is vulnerable to theft and vandalism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element uses a resilient spring element that can dynamically change its state between locked and unlocked positions. The spring element is biased to engage with recesses in the channel body, creating a secure locked state, while still allowing controlled disassembly through the actuating mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient locking element changes its physical state through biasing forces. When actuated, the spring element transitions from an engaged state (pressing into recesses) to a disengaged state, allowing the grate to be removed. This parameter change enables both security and controlled accessibility.
2Reliability
If a locking element is integrated with the grate, then the grate security is improved, but the manufacturing and storage costs increase due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is merged with the channel body rather than being integrated into the grate. The resilient locking element and actuating mechanism are installed in the channel, while the grate remains a separate, simple component. This merging approach secures the grate without complicating its design or increasing storage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary between the grate and the channel body. It provides the security function by engaging with recesses in the channel, while the grate itself remains unchanged and simple. This intermediary approach allows security enhancement without modifying the grate design.
3Reliability
If the spring element ends are made rigid to prevent forced removal, then the security against vandalism is improved, but the ease of installation and removal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides dynamic rigidity - it is rigid enough to resist forced removal when in the locked state, pressing firmly into the recesses. However, when actuated through the controlled mechanism, it can dynamically transition to allow easy removal. This dynamic property resolves the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element performs preliminary action by first disengaging the spring element from the recesses before the grate can be removed. This preliminary disengagement action allows the grate to be easily removed without requiring force, while the spring element maintains its rigid, security-providing state during normal 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
The locking element effectively prevents unauthorized removal of grates by increasing the spring rigidity, making it difficult to forcibly remove the grate without a tool, thereby enhancing security and reducing manufacturing and storage costs for additional components.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (113) kept between a cover element (111a) and a spring support element (117)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking element (11) for securing a grate (3). The locking element (11) comprises a spring element (113) kept between a cover element (111a) and a spring support element (117). The spring support element (117) is displaceable relative to the cover element (111a) by means of an actuating element (115). The displacement of the spring support element (117) causes a movement of at least one of the ends (113a, 113b) of the spring element (113) relative to the cover element (111a).