Locking Finger Module With Spring Bias for Tamper-Resistant Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockbox systems lack a secure and efficient mechanism for selectively coupling components, which can be vulnerable to unauthorized access and tampering.
Innovation Solution
A locking module with movable locking fingers biased by a compression spring mechanism, controlled by an actuator that transitions between positions to lock and unlock the components, ensuring secure coupling and decoupling through a rotatable cam-like actuator mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is designed to be secure and resistant to tampering, then reliability and security are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: locking fingers for engagement, a biasing mechanism for automatic resetting, and an actuator for controlled operation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall security without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism automatically returns the locking fingers to the locked position after actuation, eliminating the need for additional reset mechanisms or manual intervention. This self-service feature enhances security reliability while minimizing the complexity of control systems required
2Ease of operation
If a locking mechanism uses spring-loaded locking fingers with biasing mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking fingers are designed as dynamic, spring-loaded elements that can move between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design allows automatic engagement and disengagement based on actuator position, improving ease of operation while the modular spring mechanism keeps complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism creates a periodic action where the locking fingers automatically return to the locked position after being actuated. This periodic resetting action simplifies operation by eliminating manual reset steps while the repetitive mechanical action keeps the system relatively simple
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 solution provides a secure, cost-effective locking mechanism that restricts unauthorized access and is resistant to vandalism, ensuring reliable operation with reduced complexity and susceptibility to attacks.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism wrapped about a circumference of the locking fingers of said locking element, wherein a compression force applied by said biasing mechanism to said plurality of locking fingers opposes a biasing force of the plurality of locking fingers
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A locking module for selectively coupling a first component and a second component of a lockable device includes a locking element including a plurality of locking fingers movable between an open position and a closed position. The plurality of locking fingers being biased to said open position. A biasing mechanism is coupled to said locking element and a compression force applied by said biasing mechanism to said plurality of locking fingers controls movement of said plurality of locking fingers between said open position and said closed position. An actuator associated with said biasing mechanism is operable to control said compression force to selectively lock said locking element