Rotating Door Chain Lock to Block Slide Pin Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door chain mechanisms can be easily compromised by intruders using simple tools like coat hangers, allowing unauthorized access without leaving evidence of forced entry.
Innovation Solution
A positive door chain locking mechanism with a rotating lock that engages a counterbalance mechanism, securing the slide pin and chain in a locked position, requiring forced entry methods like cutting the chain or applying excessive force to breach the door.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a prior art door chain mechanism is used, then the door can be opened a small amount for security purposes, but the slide pin and chain can be easily removed with a coat hanger or simple tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a rotating lock mechanism that transitions between two stable positions: a locked position where the lock engages with the mounting plate to prevent removal, and an unlocked position where the lock disengages to allow normal operation. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction by making the system resistant to unauthorized removal while maintaining ease of legitimate access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action through the rotating lock mechanism that proactively prevents removal attempts before they can succeed. The lock is positioned to engage with the mounting plate in advance, creating a mechanical barrier that stops intruders from using coat hangers or simple tools to remove the slide pin and chain, thereby addressing the security vulnerability.
2Reliability
If a rotating lock mechanism is added to prevent unauthorized access, then security is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rotating lock mechanism with the existing door chain assembly, integrating it into the mounting plate structure. The lock shares the same mounting location and operational axis as the existing mechanism, combining security functionality with the original design rather than adding a completely separate system, thus limiting the increase in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating lock mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides security by preventing unauthorized removal, maintains ease of legitimate access through simple rotation, and works with the existing door chain mechanism. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single added component.
3Reliability
If the lock is rotated to a positive locking resting position, then forced entry evidence is provided, but the chain must be cut or excessive force applied to breach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the rotating lock in a locked state that engages with the mounting plate before any breach attempt occurs. This pre-engagement creates immediate mechanical resistance, forcing intruders to either cut the chain or apply excessive force, both of which leave clear evidence of forced entry, rather than allowing subtle manipulation.
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 security by preventing unauthorized access and providing evidence of forced entry, thereby improving personal safety and insurance protection against property damage.
Implementation Method 1
A positive door chain locking mechanism with a rotating lock that engages a counterbalance mechanism, securing the slide pin and chain in a locked position
Data Source
AI summary
The positive door chain locking mechanism is a retrofitting kit comprises a rotating lock mounted to a prior art mounting plate of a prior art door chain mechanism. The rotating lock rotates easily to a positive locking resting position by counter balance, preventing the removal of a prior art slide pin and a prior art chain from a slot in the prior art mounting plate. The rotating lock rotates easily to a positive unlocking resting position by counter balance, permitting the engagement and the removal of the prior art slide pin and the prior art chain from a slot in the prior art mounting plate of the prior art door chain mechanism. Applications for the positive door chain locking mechanism are not limited to prior art door chain mechanism.