Pivotable Multifunctional Key for Compact Storage and Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multifunctional tools with many functions tend to become large and unwieldy, making them difficult to manage and handle effectively, especially in compact spaces like pockets or luggage.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional key design featuring pivotable key arms with angled ends, allowing for a compact transport position and a spread handling position, along with U-shaped or flat key elements for efficient operation of locking devices, reduces size and enhances handling by nesting key elements and using a manufacturing process that avoids die-casting, allowing for a compact and stable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple key arms with key elements are provided for different locking devices, then the key can operate multiple locking devices, but the key becomes large and unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The key arms are designed to nest together in a compact configuration when not in use, with each key arm containing or receiving another key arm within its structure. This nesting arrangement allows multiple key arms to be stored in a space much smaller than the sum of their individual sizes, resolving the contradiction between having multiple functional key arms and maintaining a compact overall key size.
Solution Approach 2:
The key arms are made pivotally movable relative to each other, allowing the key to dynamically change its configuration between a compact stored position and an extended operational position. This dynamic capability enables the key to adapt its shape and size based on usage requirements, being compact when carried but expandable when operating different locking devices.
2Length of moving object
If the key arms are made rigid and fixed in position, then the key structure is simple and stable, but the key cannot be compact for transport and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The key structure incorporates pivotal connections between key arms that allow controlled movement while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic design enables the key to transition between compact and extended states without requiring complex mechanisms, achieving compactness through simple rotational joints rather than complex folding or telescoping systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The key is divided into separate key arm segments that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific function while the overall structure achieves compactness through the coordinated movement of segments, avoiding the need for a single complex rigid structure.
3Ease of operation
If the key elements are arranged in angled regions of the key arms, then the key offers better ergonomics and leverage for operation, but the key arms cannot nest as compactly
Solution Approach 1:
The key elements are positioned in angled regions that utilize three-dimensional space more efficiently. By arranging key elements at angles rather than in simple linear or planar configurations, the design achieves better ergonomic leverage while the angled regions are oriented to allow the key arms to nest along different spatial dimensions, reducing the overall nesting volume.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a key (100), in particular a control cabinet key, with several key elements (9) for opening/closing locking devices known per se and/or for actuating fastening elements known per se. The key (100) comprises a first key arm (1) and a second key arm (2) rotatably connected to the first key arm (1) by means of a joint connection (7) about a key pivot axis. The key arm pivot axis and the direction of the longitudinal extension of the key arms (1, 2) are perpendicular to each other. Each key arm (1, 2) has a joint mounting receptacle (15) defining the pivot axis at its first end and a key element (9) for actuating a locking device or a fastening element at its opposite end.The key arms (1, 2) are closely adjacent to each other in a transport position and form an angle between the first and second key arms (1, 2) in a handling position. The key element (9) of the first and/or the second key arm (1, 2) is arranged in an angled section (8) of the second key arm (2).