Multi-padlock Locking Device with Independent Bars

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multiple lock systems are vulnerable to bypassing and tampering, particularly when users can remove or bypass padlocks, and detecting unauthorized locks is difficult, which compromises security and access control.

Innovation Solution

A locking device featuring spaced plates with a sliding locking member, padlock bars, and a latch system that secures the locking member in a locked position with padlocks, preventing unauthorized access by requiring all padlocks to be engaged for the device to remain locked, and allowing easy unlocking when any padlock is removed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple padlocks are linked in series on a chain, then users can access multiple areas with the same key, but a user may bypass one or more locks when resecuring the chain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-area access with same keyVSAvoidlock bypass prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is segmented into multiple independent padlock bars (at least three bars) that can be individually engaged by separate padlocks. Each padlock bar operates independently within the same locking device, allowing multiple users to secure the device with their own padlocks without interfering with each other's security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple padlock bars are nested within a single locking device housing, with each bar contained within the same structural boundary. The bars are arranged parallel to each other and can be simultaneously engaged by multiple padlocks, creating a nested configuration where multiple locking mechanisms coexist within one device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple padlocks are linked in series on a chain, then users can access multiple areas with the same key, but detecting unauthorized locks is very difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-area access with same keyVSAvoidunauthorized lock detection

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device provides self-verification capability through its structured design. The fixed positioning of multiple padlock bars within the housing allows users to easily verify that all bars are properly engaged and that no unauthorized locks have been added. The systematic arrangement enables quick visual inspection and detection of tampering without requiring complex detection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20160076273A1Multiple padlock locking device

Publication Date: 2016.03.17 MCNEIL RANDY

AI summary

A locking device has a pair of plates and a locking member between the plates that slides between a locked and unlocked position. One or more padlock bars fit between the plates to secure the locking member in the locked position. Padlocks on each end of each padlock bar lock the padlock bars between the plates. When in the locked position, the locking member secures a latch opposite the padlock bars. The latch can be a chain, bar or tube.