Rekeying Tool With Intermediary Piston For Lock Cylinder Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock rekeying and maintenance processes require multiple tools and steps due to the dislodgment of upper pins and springs when removing the lock cylinder, making the process intricate, time-consuming, and prone to mistakes.
Innovation Solution
A single rekeying tool combining a hollow and solid tool design with V-shaped or U-shaped grooves and a reciprocating piston allows for the inspection, maintenance, and rekeying of pins and springs without the need to switch between tools, ensuring the pins and springs remain in place during disassembly and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lock cylinder is removed from the lock body, then the lower tumbler pins can be accessed for replacement, but the upper pins and springs become dislodged from the bores in the lock body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool with a hollow cylindrical shaft that fits over the tail extension of the lock cylinder. This intermediary tool serves as a mediator to protect and guide the upper pins and springs during the removal and reinstallation of the lock cylinder, preventing them from dislodging while allowing access to the lower tumbler pins for replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are used to service the lock, then specific functions can be performed, but the process becomes intricate and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate tools into a single integrated tool assembly. The hollow tool with the cylindrical shaft combines the functions of protecting the tail extension, guiding the lock cylinder, and providing access to the pin chambers all in one device, eliminating the need to switch between multiple tools during the servicing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The single tool design performs multiple functions: it protects the tail extension during insertion, guides the lock cylinder into proper alignment, provides a protective barrier for upper pins and springs, and enables access to lower tumbler pins for replacement. This multi-functional approach reduces servicing time and simplifies the overall process.
3Ease of manufacture
If the upper pins and springs are not positively maintained in position, then the lock cylinder can be removed, but the pins and springs become dislodged and require repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow cylindrical shaft acts as a protective intermediary that fits over the tail extension and into the lock body bore. This intermediary structure provides a protective barrier that prevents upper pins and springs from dislodging during cylinder removal, while also guiding the cylinder into proper alignment during reinstallation, thereby eliminating the need for repositioning these components.
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
This solution streamlines the rekeying process by eliminating the need for multiple tools, reducing errors, and saving time by maintaining the upper pins and springs in position, facilitating efficient inspection and replacement of lower tumbler pins within the lock cylinder.
Implementation Method 1
A resilient piston is positioned within the hollow follower and is resiliently biased to move reciprocatingly within the hollow follower
Data Source
AI summary
A rekeying tool for a lock having a lock body, cylinder, upper and lower tumbler pins and upper springs, includes a cylindrically elongated follower having opposing ends. At least one of the ends is hollow and has a V-shaped or U-shaped groove. A cylindrically elongated solid piston having a corresponding V-shaped or U-shaped groove at an end is resiliently positioned in the hollow end of the follower. The solid piston includes a cut-through channel and a pin. The pin extends a cross-section of the hollow end of the follower and passing though the cut-through channel to guide reciprocating travel of the piston from an inwardmost position to an outwardmost extension. The V-shaped or U-shaped groove of the solid piston is substantially aligned with the corresponding V-shaped or U-shaped groove of the hollow end of the follower when the piston is at the outwardmost extension.