Rotating Lock Plate for Portable Fence Pole Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable fences lack a secure locking mechanism that prevents removal without a tool, compromising safety and security, especially in applications like pool safety fences where ease of removal is prioritized over security.
Innovation Solution
A lock system comprising a seat with an opening for a socket and a rotatably coupled lock plate, which can be fastened to a fence pole using screws, ensuring the pole cannot be removed without a tool, utilizing a nylon/glass composite material for durability and lightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a release button is provided on the fence poles to allow easy removal, then ease of operation is improved, but security and reliability deteriorate because the fence can be removed without a tool
Solution Approach 1:
The release button mechanism is extracted and replaced with a screw-fastening system. The lock plate is removed from the pole and replaced with a screw that must be unscrewed with a tool to release the locking mechanism, eliminating the easy-release button while maintaining the socket engagement
Solution Approach 2:
A screw acts as an intermediary element between the lock plate and the fence pole. The screw fastens the lock plate to the pole, creating a tool-required connection that mediates between the need for secure attachment and the need for removable assembly
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added to prevent removal without a tool, then security and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the existing socket and pole structure. The lock plate rotates within the socket opening and fastens directly to the pole, combining the locking mechanism with the structural elements rather than adding a separate complex locking system
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having a mechanism that actively locks and requires active unlocking, the system uses a passive lock plate that rotates into place and is secured with a screw. The default state is locked, and removal requires the inverse action of unscrewing and rotating the plate back
3Ease of operation
If the fence is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, then ease of operation is improved, but the fence is considered temporary rather than permanent
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter of connection strength is changed by introducing a screw-fastened lock plate system. This creates a semi-permanent connection that is stronger than simple insertion but still allows for controlled disassembly with basic tools, changing the fence from temporary to semi-permanent status
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for a fence, the lock including a seat having an opening configured to receive a socket and a lock plate rotatably coupled to the seat and configured to be coupled to a fence pole protruding from the socket.