Portable Cylinder Lock Assembly for Reconfigurable Security Barriers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cylinder type locks for self-storage unit entrances are often discarded after their primary use, lacking additional usage opportunities, and existing technologies require fixed or proprietary components, limiting their versatility and applicability to different items.
Innovation Solution
A portable assembly that utilizes a cylinder type lock with independent primary components, allowing for versatile securing of various items by combining the lock with separate rods or plates, which can be affixed to wire ropes or chains, forming a security barrier or vehicle tow hitch lock, accommodating various lock and hitch sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cylinder type lock is designed for a specific primary function (e.g., self-storage unit entrance), then it performs reliably for that function, but it lacks additional usage opportunities and is discarded after primary use
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can secure self-storage unit entrances (primary function) and also function as a portable security barrier or vehicle tow hitch lock (secondary functions). The universal design allows the same cylinder type lock to be used across different applications by combining it with various primary components such as bars, rods, plates, or cables with carabiners.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock system is divided into separate independent components: the cylinder type lock and the primary components (bar, rod, plate, or cable with carabiner). This segmentation allows each component to be used independently or combined together, enabling the lock to be adapted for different security needs and applications beyond its original single-purpose design.
2Stability of the object's composition
If existing lock arrangements use fixed mounting locations or mechanically connected primary components, then structural stability is improved, but portability and ease of separation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly transitions from a fixed, permanent connection to a dynamic, removable connection. The primary components can be easily attached to and separated from the cylinder type lock, allowing the assembly to be reconfigured or stored when not in use, while maintaining stability during active security applications.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the cylinder type lock from the primary components (bar, rod, plate, or cable with carabiner), the design enables easy assembly and disassembly. Each component remains independent yet can be quickly combined to form a stable security assembly when needed.
3Reliability
If proprietary lock cylinders are used, then specific application requirements are met, but reciprocity between manufacturers and adaptability to different locks are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The design works with any commercially available cylinder type lock regardless of manufacturer, enabling universal application across different brands and models. The primary components are designed to accommodate standard cylinder dimensions and mounting requirements, allowing users to retain their existing locks or choose from various manufacturers without compatibility issues.
4Stability of the object's composition
If primary components are permanently affixed together, then assembly stability is improved, but adaptability to different security scenarios and ease of reconfiguration are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration where primary components can be attached to or separated from the cylinder type lock as needed. This enables the security assembly to be adapted for different scenarios (e.g., securing bicycles, forming portable barriers, or locking vehicle hitches) while maintaining stable connections during each specific application.
Data Source
AI summary
A novel, portable locking device assembly is disclosed. The assembly is adapted to utilize a commercially available cylinder lock, which is commonly utilized in an application where the lock is not permanently affixed to the item intended to be secured. The present invention assembly consists of two or more independent components, which when joined together, are then secured together by the insertion, into a suitably sized cavity in one of the components, of the separate cylinder lock previously mentioned. Thereby, the assembly allows for a standard, commercially available cylinder lock to be inserted, forming a secure, locking device assembly which may be utilized to secure an otherwise moveable object to a fixed, immoveable object, or to secure multiple moveable items together, and/or prevent unauthorized removal of the item(s).