Rotatable Magnetic Key Element for Lock Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetically actuated locks rely on fixed magnetic elements in the key, which limits the flexibility and security of the locking mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A key device with a rotatable magnetic key combination element that aligns and interacts with a magnetic plug element in the lock, allowing for rotational alignment and magnetic interaction to bring the plug to the shear line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed magnetic elements are used in the key, then the lock structure is simple, but the security and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the magnetic key combination element rotatable rather than fixed. The magnetic element can rotate about a rotation axis to align with magnetic plug elements in the lock, enabling the key to interact dynamically with the locking mechanism. This rotational capability enhances security by adding a degree of freedom to the key's interaction with the lock, while the element remains constrained within the key shaft portion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed magnetic elements are used in the key, then the manufacturing is simple, but the adaptability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable magnetic key combination element provides adaptability by allowing the magnetic element to rotate and align with different magnetic plug elements in the lock. This rotational degree of freedom enables the key to accommodate variations in lock design and positioning, enhancing versatility. The element is constrained within the key shaft portion, maintaining manufacturability while adding functional flexibility.
3Manufacturing precision
If the magnetic key combination element is rotatable, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable magnetic key combination element achieves precise alignment by rotating about a rotation axis until its magnetic field aligns with the magnetic plug elements in the lock. This rotational alignment mechanism provides precise positioning of the magnetic interaction, enabling accurate engagement with the locking mechanism. The element remains constrained within the key shaft portion, limiting the increase in device complexity.
4Reliability
If the magnetic key combination element is rotatable, then the security is enhanced, but the ease of operation may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable magnetic key combination element operates autonomously by rotating automatically to align with the magnetic plug elements in the lock. The magnetic interaction and rotational alignment occur without requiring manual intervention or complex user actions. This self-aligning mechanism maintains ease of operation while enhancing security through the automatic rotational engagement of the magnetic elements.
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
Enhances the security and flexibility of the locking mechanism by allowing the magnetic key combination element to rotate and align with the magnetic plug element, ensuring proper alignment and interaction for unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one magnetic key combination element magnetically interacts with the at least one magnetic plug element against a force of a biasing device and brings the at least one magnetic plug element to the shear line
Data Source
AI summary
A key device (10) includes a generally elongate shaft portion (12), and at least one magnetic key combination element (20) disposed in the shaft portion (12), which is rotatable about a rotation axis (22).