Parallel Bolt Latch Resists Force via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding bolt locks fail to withstand significant forces over time, especially when exposed to weather and pests, leading to security breaches in gated areas.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism featuring a pair of parallel sliding bolts connected by a plate, which allows for secure engagement with a fence post without the need for additional locking structures on the post, and includes optional features like beveled ends, biasing springs, and a rack and pinion system for enhanced stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single sliding bolt or latch is used on a gate, then the gate can be easily locked and unlocked, but the locking mechanism fails under substantial force over time, especially when exposed to weather and pests
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent sliding bolts (typically two or three) arranged parallel to each other on the gate. Each bolt operates independently but collectively they provide enhanced security. This segmentation distributes the force load across multiple points rather than concentrating it on a single bolt, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation through individual bolt movement.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sliding bolts are combined into a single integrated locking system where all bolts work together to secure the gate. The bolts are mounted on the same edge of the gate and engage with corresponding receptacles on the fence post simultaneously, creating a unified locking structure that resists force more effectively than a single bolt while still allowing simple operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional sliding bolts are used, then installation is simple with just a few wood screws, but the screws rip loose over time due to force and weather deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into multiple mounting points along the gate edge, with each sliding bolt having its own set of mounting screws. This distributes the mechanical stress and weather exposure across multiple attachment locations rather than concentrating it at a single point, reducing the likelihood of screw failure while maintaining relatively simple installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system extends along the length of the gate edge, utilizing the dimensional space available on the gate surface. By spacing multiple bolts along the gate edge rather than concentrating attachments at one location, the system leverages the gate's dimensional capacity to create multiple attachment zones, improving overall attachment strength without significantly complicating installation.
3Ease of operation
If the slot is made wide enough to receive the plate and allow sliding motion, then the plate can move freely for locking and unlocking, but the slot becomes too wide and allows appreciable pivoting motion of the plate
Solution Approach 1:
The slot geometry is designed with varying dimensions along its length to provide different functional zones. The slot is wider at the entrance to accommodate plate insertion and initial movement, then transitions to a narrower section that guides and constrains the plate's motion path, and finally has a confined engagement zone where the plate's locking surfaces make precise contact. This local variation in slot dimensions enables both free sliding motion for operation and stable positioning when locked, preventing unwanted pivoting while maintaining ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock includes a pair of spaced apart parallel bolts connected by a plate extending between the bolts. A slot, formed in a hinged structure, such as a gate, extends from a free edge of the structure (an edge opposite a hinged edge) to an end point at a determined distance from the free edge. The plate is received in the slot. Each bolt is located on an opposite side of the hinged structure, when the plate is received in the slot. The slot defines a range of sliding motion of the plate and bolts.