Panic Lock Coupling Block for Multi-Function Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panic locks require multiple variants to accommodate different applications, leading to a large number of locks that manufacturers need to stock, and existing designs are complex with many parts, making them difficult to adapt for various functions.

Innovation Solution

A lock mechanism where an actuating element on the panic lever presses a coupling block into a coupling position when the panic lever is closed, simplifying the functional chain between the bolt and the outer nut, and allowing the lock to function as both a DIN right and DIN left lock, with an optional cutting disc for additional functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple lock variants are provided to accommodate different applications, then the adaptability to different functions is improved, but the device complexity and number of parts to be stocked increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different functionsVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is designed with a universal coupling block that can be engaged or disengaged based on the panic lever position, allowing the same lock to perform multiple functions (panic lock, passage lock, changeover lock) without requiring multiple variants. The coupling block acts as a universal component that enables different locking behaviors through a single mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling block is designed to be dynamically engageable or disengageable based on the panic lever position. When the panic lever is in the closed position, the coupling block is pressed into the engaged position, creating a dynamic adjustment of the functional chain between the bolt and outer nut, allowing the lock to adapt its behavior without physical reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing lock designs are made complex with many parts to achieve various functions, then the functional versatility is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidease of manufacture and assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling block merges the functions of multiple components into a single element. Instead of having separate mechanisms for different locking functions, the coupling block integrates the functionality to engage or disengage the functional chain between the bolt and outer nut, simplifying the overall structure and reducing the number of parts to be manufactured and assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling block extracts and isolates the critical function of engaging/disengaging the functional chain from the complex multi-part mechanisms. By taking out this specific function and implementing it through a dedicated coupling block actuated by the panic lever, the design simplifies manufacturing while maintaining functional versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of operation

If the functional chain between the bolt and outer nut is simplified, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of different locking functions may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidreliability of locking functions
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling block serves as an intermediary element between the panic lever and the functional chain connecting the bolt and outer nut. It mediates the transmission of motion and force, ensuring that when the panic lever is in the closed position, the coupling block is reliably pressed into the engaged position, maintaining the integrity of the locking function while simplifying the overall operational sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling block is preliminarily positioned and engaged through the panic lever action before the actual locking or unlocking operation occurs. This preliminary engagement ensures that the functional chain is properly established or disconnected in advance, maintaining reliability while making the subsequent operation simpler and more direct.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3339540B1Lock
Publication Date: 2019.05.01 WILH SCHLECHTENDAHL & SOEHNE GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3339540B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3339540B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3339540B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a lock (1), in particular a panic lock, with a lock mechanism (3) arranged in a lock housing (2), wherein the lock mechanism (3) comprises a two-part lock follower (7) with an inner follower (8) and an outer follower (9), a latch actuating lever (13), a latch (14) cooperating with the latch actuating lever (13), a bolt (25) movable between an excluded bolt position and an enclosing bolt position, and a panic lever (28) cooperating with the latch actuating lever (13) and the bolt (25), wherein a coupling block (40) for coupling the latch actuating lever (13) with the lock follower (7) is provided on the latch actuating lever, wherein the panic lever (28) is movable between a lever enclosing position and an excluded lever position, and wherein the coupling block (40) is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position.According to the invention, an actuating means is provided on the panic lever (28) which interacts with the clutch block (40) and which, in the lever locking position of the panic lever (28), pushes the clutch block (40) into the engaged position.