Rekeyable Lock Cylinder with Fool-Proof Key Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
General users often fail to completely insert the new key during the rekeying process of rekeyable lock cylinders, leading to a serious issue where the new key cannot release the locking state, necessitating a fool-proof mechanism to ensure correct key insertion.
Innovation Solution
A rekeyable lock cylinder design incorporating a cylinder body, plug, limit member, sliding block, drive member, and rack component assemblies, where the limit member and drive member ensure that rekeying is only permitted when the key is completely inserted, utilizing a T-shaped pin and cone-shaped pin to prevent movement unless the key is correctly positioned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rekeyable lock cylinder uses a conventional rekeying mechanism without fool-proof function, then the rekeying operation can be performed with simple key insertion, but the new key cannot reliably release the locking state if not completely inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The limit member and drive member are positioned in advance to prevent the sliding block from moving unless the key is completely inserted. The limit member extends into the drive member's path, creating a preliminary barrier that blocks the rekeying operation until the key reaches the correct position, thus preventing failed rekeying attempts before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive member acts as an intermediary between the key and the sliding block. It translates the linear motion of the completely inserted key into motion that releases the limit member's constraint on the sliding block, enabling the rekeying operation only when the key is properly positioned.
2Reliability
If the lock cylinder adds limit member and drive member to ensure correct key insertion, then fool-proof function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The limit member and drive member are integrated within the existing plug structure, sharing common spaces and functional pathways. The limit member is disposed within the first through hole and contacts the drive member, merging their functions into a compact arrangement that adds fool-proof capability without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive member serves multiple functions: it is driven by the key during normal operation, it interacts with the limit member to enforce proper key insertion, and it transfers motion to release the sliding block. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A rekeyable lock cylinder with fool-proof function at least comprises a cylinder body, a plug, a limit member, a sliding block and a drive member. The plug disposed within the cylinder body has a trench, a plurality of first rack component runners communicating with the trench and a first through hole also communicating with the trench. The limit member is disposed within the first through hole and the sliding block is disposed within the trench. The sliding block has a plurality of second rack component runners respectively corresponding to each of the first rack component runners, a keyhole communicating with the second rack component runners and a second through hole communicating with the keyhole. The second through hole corresponds to the first through hole of the plug. The drive member is disposed within the second through hole and one end of the limit member contacts against the drive member.