Padlock Assembly with Rotating Protective Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Padlocks protecting cargo compartment access doors on vehicles are vulnerable to external attacks, as the lock body and shackle are exposed and can be cut or compromised, allowing unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A padlock assembly with a protective shield that covers the lock body and shackle when in the locked position, using a strong metal shield with a tubular member and arcuate collar to prevent exposure and secure the padlock assembly on the door.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional padlock is mounted on the door with the shackle inserted through aligned openings in the bracket parts, then the door cannot be opened without removing the padlock, but the lock body and shackle are exposed and can be cut or compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A protective shield is introduced as an intermediary element between the padlock and external threats. The shield is positioned to cover the lock body and shackle, preventing direct access by cutting tools or other attacking instruments while allowing the padlock to function normally for securing the door
Solution Approach 2:
The padlock assembly is nested within the protective shield structure. The shield encompasses the lock body and shackle, creating a layered security system where the inner padlock provides primary locking function while the outer shield provides protective coverage against external attacks
2Reliability
If the padlock is used to prevent unauthorized access, then the cargo compartment is secured, but the padlock is completely exposed to damage from external assault
Solution Approach 1:
The security system combines two different protective elements: the padlock (providing mechanical locking strength) and the protective shield (providing structural protection against external assault). This composite approach creates a security system where each component addresses different vulnerability aspects, with the shield protecting the padlock from cutting and impact while the padlock prevents door opening
3Ease of operation
If the shackle is inserted through the aligned openings to lock the door, then the door cannot be opened without removing the padlock, but the shackle and lock body are vulnerable to being cut or hammered
Solution Approach 1:
The protective shield serves as a mediator that blocks harmful external forces (cutting tools, hammers) from reaching the shackle and lock body. The shield is positioned between the attacking tools and the padlock components, absorbing or deflecting the assault while allowing the padlock's locking and unlocking operations to proceed unimpeded
Data Source
AI summary
The assembly includes a padlock having a lock body and a “U” shaped shackle. A protective shield is attached to one section of the shackle and is rotatable between a covered and uncovered positions relative to the padlock. In the unlocked position of the lock body, the shield may be moved to its uncovered position in which the lock body and the shackle are exposed. In its covered position, the shield protects the portion of the lock body and the shackle. In that position, the lock body can be moved to its locked position in which it cooperates with the shield to prevent the shield from being moved to its uncovered position. The assembly is mounted to a cargo access door over the latch handle such that the shield protects the padlock and the latch handle.