Patch Lock Assembly Interlocking Adapter for Glass Door Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mounting door lock components on glass panel doors is challenging due to the need for unique patches and compromised retention, as the primary securing method is clamping force, which can lead to unwanted loosening and insecurity.

Innovation Solution

A patch lock assembly with an adapter housing featuring interlocking features such as notches and fasteners to secure the assembly to the door, allowing for standardized mounting and resistance to loosening, and the ability to accommodate various latches, strikes, and electronic components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a clamping force method is used to secure the latch or strike unit to the glass panel, then the installation process is simple, but the retention security is compromised and unwanted loosening occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidretention security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter housing is divided into multiple components including a body portion, a flange portion, and an interlocking feature that segments the mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows the clamping function to be separated from the retention function, enabling simple installation while maintaining security through the interlocking feature between the adapter housing and glass panel

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter housing acts as an intermediary component between the latch/strike unit and the glass panel. It provides the interlocking feature that directly engages with the glass panel, while the clamping force is applied through the adapter housing to secure the latch or strike unit, thus mediating between the simple clamping installation and secure retention requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a unique patch is formed for each door latch or strike, then the mounting is customized, but the manufacturing complexity increases and standardization is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing standardization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter housing is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple different latches and strikes through standardized mounting interfaces. The interlocking feature with the glass panel is standardized, while the adapter housing can be selectively modified to receive various latch or strike types, thus achieving versatility without sacrificing manufacturing standardization

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

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter housing provides a dynamic mounting solution where the configuration can be selectively modified to suit different latch or strike requirements. The standardized interlocking feature remains fixed for manufacturing efficiency, while the mounting configuration adapts to different applications, balancing customization with standardization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11248398B2Patch lock assembly
Publication Date: 2022.02.15 HANCHETT ENTRY SYSTEMS INC
  • US11248398B2 patent drawing
  • US11248398B2 patent drawing
  • US11248398B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A patch lock assembly releasably secures a glass door to an adjacent glass panel in a locked orientation. The patch lock assembly comprises a latch adapter housing, a strike adapter housing, and first and second power supply adapter housings. The latch adapter housing may interchangeably receive one of any number of various latch mechanisms without requiring further modification of the door. The strike adapter housing may interchangeably receive one of any number of various strikes, including electric strikes, without requiring further modification of the door. Respective power supply adapter housings may be coupled to each latch adapter housing and strike adapter housing. The power supply adapters include a power source and control unit to provide the necessary power to operate the latch and strike. Various interlocking features may be incorporated in the design to resist unwanted movement of the patch lock assembly relative to the glass panel.