Modular Cylinder Lock with Segmented Channels for Easier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular cylinder locks face challenges in assembly complexity due to reduced space for encoding means, require multiple versions for varying door thicknesses, and are vulnerable to forced entry attempts like tearing or drilling, leading to increased costs and logistical complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular cylinder lock design with a limited number of components, featuring a housing channel for encoding means and a contoured plate with niches for elastic elements, allowing easy assembly and secure coupling, and incorporating hard pastilles and closure plugs to protect against forced entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interconnecting elements are arranged in radial expansions of modules, then modules can be coupled together, but space available for encoding means is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The radial expansion is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first portion for encoding means and a second portion for interconnecting elements. This spatial segmentation allows both encoding means and connection elements to coexist without interference, resolving the space conflict while maintaining modular coupling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from two-dimensional planar arrangement to three-dimensional spatial organization by utilizing the axial dimension of the radial expansion. Encoding means are positioned in the first portion while interconnecting elements occupy the second portion along the axial direction, effectively adding a dimensional layer to resolve spatial congestion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of cylinder locks are produced for different door thicknesses, then all door variants can be covered, but design and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal cylinder lock design is created that can accommodate various door thicknesses through modular configuration. The lock uses standardized modules that can be assembled in different combinations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized lock versions while maintaining coverage for all door variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock system employs dynamic configurability where modules can be selectively assembled and disassembled to match different installation requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows one lock design to serve multiple door thickness scenarios, replacing the static approach of producing fixed versions for each thickness.
3Reliability
If encoding means are placed in radial expansion, then locking function is provided, but assembly operations become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The radial expansion is divided into separate zones for encoding means and interconnecting elements, allowing independent access and assembly of each component type. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing operations by enabling workers to assemble encoding means without interference from connection elements, while maintaining the complete locking function.
4Ease of operation
If a limited number of components is used, then assembly is simplified, but security against forced entry may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Security features such as hard pastilles and closure plugs are merged into the standard module design rather than being added as separate components. This integration maintains security functionality while adhering to the limited component count philosophy, as these protective elements become inherent parts of the modular units.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A cylinder lock (1) comprising: external first modules (A), which comprise a respective stator (2) provided with a radial expansion (3), a housing cavity (4) for a respective rotor (5) that has a seat (6), which contains the terminal ends of encoding means (7) arranged in the radial expansion (3) of the stator (2), the cavity being configured for the temporary housing of a coded key (8) and of at least one housing compartment (9) for at least one connection element (10) for connecting to other modules; second actuation modules (B), which comprise a respective stator (11) provided with a housing compartment (12) for the at least one connection element (10) and a respective rotor (13) that has a bit (14) for the actuation of respective lever mechanisms of the installation door leaf; third extension modules (C), which comprise a respective stator (15) inside which a respective rotor (16) is able to freely rotate. At least one external first module (A) comprises at least one housing channel (18) for the encoding means (7) which is open and connected to the housing compartment (9) for the connection element (10). The lock (1) comprises at least one contoured plate (19) which has at least one niche (20) configured for the housing of at least one head of at least one elastic element (21) of one of the encoding means (7). The radial expansion (3) comprises a longitudinal conduit (22), open onto the compartment (9) and onto a housing channel (18), which has a shape and dimensions that are complementary to those of the plate (19) for the housing thereof. The plate (19) when accommodated in the longitudinal conduit (22) defines a separating wall between the at least one channel (18) and the compartment (9).