Modular Locking Mechanism for Universal Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock devices, such as padlocks and bicycle locks, are typically self-contained units requiring separate keys or combinations for different applications, limiting their universal use and increasing costs due to the need for multiple locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A lock device design where the locking mechanism is structurally separate from the lock bodies, allowing it to be completely enclosed within them, enabling the same locking device to be used for various applications by indirect interlocking via a separate locking device, which can be controlled via radio communication and shared security codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the locking mechanism is inseparably integrated into the first lock body, then the locking device forms a self-contained functional unit, but the user must use different locking devices for different applications and keep separate keys or combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into two independent parts: a reusable locking mechanism and application-specific lock bodies. The locking mechanism can be separated from different lock bodies (e.g., padlock body, bicycle lock body), allowing the same locking mechanism to serve multiple applications while maintaining stable internal composition.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed with universal interfaces and standardized locking elements that can engage with various types of lock bodies. This enables a single locking mechanism to function across different applications (padlocks, bicycle locks, etc.), eliminating the need for multiple specialized locking devices.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the entire locking mechanism is inseparably integrated into the first lock body, then the locking device is complete, but the cost increases due to purchasing multiple locking mechanisms for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates universal locking elements and interfaces that can engage with various lock bodies across different applications. This allows a single locking mechanism to replace multiple application-specific locking mechanisms, reducing the total quantity needed while maintaining completeness for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the lock bodies to be discarded or replaced while the expensive locking mechanism is recovered and reused. The locking mechanism can be separated from one lock body and attached to another, enabling recovery of the valuable component and eliminating the need to purchase new locking mechanisms for different applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking device is structurally separate from the lock bodies, then the same locking device can be used with different pairs of lock bodies, but the locking device must be completely enclosed within the lock bodies when in use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into modular components that can be independently assembled into different lock body configurations. The locking mechanism consists of separate elements (locking bolts, actuation mechanisms) that can be enclosed within various lock bodies while maintaining their functional independence and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be nested within the interior spaces of different lock bodies. The compact modular structure allows the locking device to be completely enclosed within the first and second lock bodies when in use, while still maintaining the capability to interface with various lock body types through standardized engagement interfaces.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device, in particular a padlock or bicycle lock, comprising a first locking body (2) and a second locking body (3), the first and the second locking body (2, 3) being interlockable. The locking device comprises an interlocking device (1), in particular an electromechanical interlocking device (1) which is separate from the first and the second locking body (2, 3) and which can be inserted by a first sub-region (1a) into the first locking body (2) and by a second sub-region (1b) into the second locking body (3). Each of said sub-regions (1a, 1b) has at least one bolt element (5) which is used to lock the associated sub-region (1a, 1b) to the respective (2, 3) locking body. The invention also relates to an interlocking device of a locking device, said interlocking device having a first sub-region (1a) and a second sub-region (1b), the first sub-region (1a) being insertable into a first locking body (2) of a locking device and the second sub-region (1b) into a second locking body (3) of a locking device, in particular the same locking device, each of the sub-regions (1a, 1b) having at least one bolt element (5) which is used to lock the associated sub-region (1a, 1b) to the respective (2, 3) locking body. The invention further relates to a set consisting of an interlocking device and at least two pairs of locking bodies.