Rekeyable Lock Cylinder with Torque-Isolating Locking Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rekeyable locks lack sufficient torque resistance, making them vulnerable to forced entry.
Innovation Solution
A rekeyable lock cylinder design featuring a locking bar that moves transversely within a groove in the cylinder body, isolating torque from the racks, and using biasing members to maintain the locking bar in a locked position, enhancing torque resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If torque is applied to the plug assembly with an unauthorized object, then the locking bar blocks rotation to prevent unlocking, but the force is transmitted to the racks causing potential deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock cylinder is segmented into distinct functional zones: the locking bar and groove form a torque isolation segment that separates the blocking function from the rack mechanism. This segmentation prevents torque transmitted during blocking from being transmitted to the racks, protecting them from deformation while maintaining reliable torque resistance.
2Reliability
If the locking bar is positioned to block rotation in the groove, then torque resistance is enhanced, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bar serves multiple functions: it blocks rotation of the plug assembly when torque is applied with unauthorized objects, and it interfaces with the groove to provide torque resistance. The groove itself serves dual purposes as both a structural feature and a torque isolation mechanism. This multi-functionality enhances torque resistance without proportionally increasing complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design significantly increases the lock's durability by preventing torque from being translated to the racks, thereby enhancing torque resistance and reducing the risk of deformation.
Implementation Method 1
there are one or more biasing members urging the locking bar towards the plurality of racks
Implementation Method 2
the spring-loaded key followers will overcome the spring force of the biasing member to lock the lock cylinder when a key is not inserted into the keyway
Data Source
AI summary
A rekeyable lock cylinder with a cylinder body and a plug assembly. The lock cylinder includes a plurality of key followers and a corresponding plurality of racks disposed in the plug assembly. The lock cylinder includes, for example, a locking bar for blocking rotation of the plug assembly with respect to the cylinder body to prevent unlocking of the rekeyable lock cylinder with an unauthorized object. In some embodiments, the locking bar is configured such that torqueing the plug assembly with an unauthorized object applies force to the locking bar without translating such force to the plurality of racks. This type of arrangement enhances torque resistance of the lock cylinder against attempted forced entry.