Recessed Lock Housing for Tool Box Tamper Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock systems for storage containers, such as tool boxes and construction site containers, are vulnerable to tampering and drilling due to exposed lock mechanisms, requiring inconvenient dual-key operation and potential user error, especially when used in vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A lock system with a latch rod and lock engager mechanism integrated into a storage container, featuring a lock housing with a recessed portion for key access and a handle accessible from outside, ensuring the lock is protected from drilling and tampering, allowing for single-handed operation and enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lock is mounted externally on the container, then it is accessible for locking and unlocking operations, but it becomes exposed to tampering and drilling attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is nested within a recessed cavity in the container wall, creating a protective enclosure that shields the lock body from external tampering and drilling attempts while still allowing key insertion and operation through a controlled opening
2Object-affected harmful factors
If two padlocks are used at opposite ends of the box, then security against prying is improved, but the complexity of operation increases requiring two keys and multiple unlocking steps
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated lock mechanism positioned at one end of the box. The latch rod with multiple engagement points provides distributed security againstprying while the single padlock maintains simplicity of operation
3Device complexity
If the lock is positioned at one end of the box, then the number of locks is reduced to one, but the latch rod becomes longer increasing the risk of bending and reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The latch rod is segmented with multiple flange engagement points distributed along its length. This segmentation allows the single latch rod to provide multiple locking points simultaneously, maintaining structural integrity by distributing mechanical loads across several short engagement sections rather than relying on a single long span
Data Source
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Figure 3a~4
AI summary
A lock system for a tool box is disclosed wherein locking is achieved with a lock which is located in a recessed portion along the front wall of the tool box in order to prevent tampering. A latch rod is slidably disposed adjacent a front wall of the box. The lock and the latch rod are disposed such that the lock body blocks the longitudinal movement of a lock engager and maintains the latch rod in the latched position when the lid of the tool box is in the closed position and the lock is locked. When the lock is unlocked, the lock engager is allowed to move past the lock to move the latch rod to the unlatched position thereby allowing the lid of the tool box to be opened. The lock system may be used for a horizontal or a vertical tool box.