Progressive Deadlatching for Intermediate Deadbolt Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional deadbolt locks are compromised if not fully extended, as they require full extension to prevent retraction by external forces, leading to security vulnerabilities when the deadbolt is in intermediate positions.

Innovation Solution

A progressive deadlatching arrangement is introduced, which includes a plurality of locking regions that engage the deadbolt arm to prevent retraction from external forces at any extended position between fully retracted and fully extended, using a sliding mechanism with teeth or a cam block and notch configuration to redirect forces and maintain the deadbolt in an extended position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional deadbolt lock is used without progressive deadlatching, then the structure is simple, but the deadbolt can be retracted by external forces when in intermediate positions, compromising security

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The deadlatching arrangement is segmented into multiple discrete locking regions (first, second, third locking regions) positioned at different locations along the deadbolt's travel path. Each locking region provides independent engagement with the deadbolt arm, creating multiple security checkpoints rather than relying on a single full-extension lock point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The progressive deadlatching arrangement engages in preliminary actions at intermediate positions during the deadbolt's extension travel. The locking regions are positioned to engage the deadbolt arm before the deadbolt reaches full extension, preventing retraction at these intermediate stages and maintaining security throughout the entire locking process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the deadbolt requires full extension to prevent retraction, then the deadlatching mechanism is simple, but security is compromised at intermediate positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity at intermediate positionsVSAvoiddeadlatching mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The deadlatching mechanism is divided into multiple functional segments or locking regions distributed along the deadbolt's path of travel. Each locking region (first, second, third locking regions) acts as an independent security checkpoint, engaging the deadbolt arm at specific intermediate positions to prevent unauthorized retraction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking regions act as intermediary elements between the deadbolt arm and the external environment. These intermediaries (locking regions with engagement surfaces) transfer and redirect forces applied to the deadbolt, preventing direct force transmission that would cause retraction at intermediate positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If a progressive deadlatching arrangement with multiple locking regions is implemented, then security is enhanced at intermediate positions, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddeadlatching arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple locking regions are merged into a single integrated deadlatching arrangement that operates cooperatively. The first, second, and third locking regions are positioned and configured to work together, with each region providing complementary security functions throughout the deadbolt's extension and retraction cycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The deadlatching arrangement with multiple locking regions serves multiple security functions simultaneously: it prevents retraction at various intermediate positions, maintains security during the locking process, and provides progressive engagement. This multi-functional design enhances security without requiring separate mechanisms for each function.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11136790B2Progressive deadlatching for deadbolts
Publication Date: 2021.10.05 ASSA ABLOY RESIDENTIAL GROUP INC
  • US11136790B2 patent drawing
  • US11136790B2 patent drawing
  • US11136790B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A progressive deadlatching arrangement for a deadbolt lock prevents an external force applied on the deadbolt from retracting the deadbolt or otherwise compromising a secured door. The progressive deadlatching arrangement prevents external forces from retracting the deadbolt while still allowing an authorized user to operate the deadbolt. ASSA ABLOY Residential Group, Inc. is a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY AB.