Rotating Disk Barrel Lock Key Mechanism for One-Handed Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Many rotating disk barrel locks require two-handed operation, which is challenging in small, cramped environments common in the utility industry, where limited space and recessed locks make it difficult to access and operate the locks.
Innovation Solution
A key mechanism with a shank portion and a grip portion secured within a frame, allowing the shank to protrude and be rotated with the grip portion, enabling one-handed operation by engaging recesses on the lock to prevent rotation and facilitating easy installation or removal of rotating disk barrel locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key with two interconnected components (key and key body) is used to prevent rotation, then the lock can be operated, but two-handed operation is required which is difficult in restricted spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the key and key body into a single integrated key structure. The key includes a shaft portion that inserts into the lock and a body portion that engages with the lock head, eliminating the need for separate key body components. This integration allows the entire key to be manipulated with one hand while still preventing lock rotation through the engagement of the body portion with the lock head.
Solution Approach 2:
The key is segmented into distinct functional portions: a shaft portion for insertion into the lock cylinder and a body portion for engaging with the lock head. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function independently, with the body portion preventing rotation while the shaft portion enables insertion and removal, all manageable with one hand.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the lock is recessed into a protective box, then protection is provided, but access and range of motion for operation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The key body portion extends in a dimension perpendicular to the lock insertion direction, creating an engagement interface that can be accessed from the side rather than requiring deep insertion or large rotational arcs. This dimensional change allows the key to engage the lock head effectively even when the lock is recessed, providing adequate range of motion within the protective box constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
A key mechanism that includes a key having a shank portion and a grip portion secured to the shank portion. The mechanism further includes a frame with the key being rotatably secured within the frame such that the shank portion protrudes from a first end of the frame. The grip portion of the key may be accessed and rotated to rotate the shank portion while the key is in the frame allowing one-handed operation of the key mechanism.