Modular Locking Cam Mechanism for Deadlock and Panic Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for emergency exits are limited by the need for specific actuator types, lack of power backup, and inability to adapt to different release mechanisms, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular cam arrangement with interconnected cams allows for various actuator types and includes a panic release mechanism with a curved trajectory, enabling easy adaptation to different release mechanisms and power backup, while providing enhanced security and ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key activated lock is provided on the outside to enable authorised retraction of the latch, then security is improved, but the latch may be blocked from retracting thus blocking the panic function
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is divided into multiple independent cams (first cam, second cam, third cam) that can be selectively engaged or disengaged. This segmentation allows the panic release to bypass the deadlock cam through alternative cam pathways, ensuring that the latch can be retracted even when the deadlock is engaged, thus maintaining the panic function while preserving security.
2Length of moving object
If the drive pin of the panic release travels on a linear trajectory with 90° handle rotation, then the latch throw is determined (16-20mm), but increasing the throw requires longer handle rotation which makes the lock harder to open in an emergency
Solution Approach 1:
The panic release mechanism employs a curved trajectory cam instead of a linear trajectory. The cam surface is contoured to guide the drive pin along a curved path that converts a smaller angular rotation of the handle into a larger linear displacement of the latch. This curvature allows the latch throw to be increased beyond the conventional 16-20mm while requiring less than 90° of handle rotation, thereby maintaining ease of operation during emergencies.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is designed for a particular use with specific drive/key actuator attachment, then the lock provides specific locking function, but it cannot be adapted to connect a different means of actuator and requires entire lock replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates a universal cam interface that can accommodate multiple types of actuators (deadlock, panic release, electric motors, solenoids). The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it translates rotational motion from different actuator types into linear latch movement, provides mechanical advantage, and enables selective engagement of different locking modes. This multi-functionality allows the same lock body to be adapted to different actuator types without replacement, enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable locking functions.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 2~7
Figure 8~11
AI summary
Locking mechanism 2 with a deadlock latch 4 in which a rotary cam 12 has means 12e to move the latch 4 between retracted and throw positions. The cam 12 is a modular arrangement with at least two inserting cams 12, 14, one of which 12 is driven by a panic release, the other of which 14 is driven by an actuator which is selectively locked by a deadlock. In one embodiment the latch 4 is provided with an anti-thrust mechanism 22, 28 to prevent the lock being forced into the retracted position whilst the cam also has means 12d to disengage the anti-thrust 22 prior to the cam 12 moving the latch 4.