Secondary Locking Mechanism for Forced-Attack Bolt Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock apparatuses have weak points that can be forcibly attacked and displaced, leading to unauthorized unlocking, compromising ease of use, security, and strength.

Innovation Solution

A secondary locking mechanism is integrated into the lock apparatus to maintain the bolts in a locked position even when the primary lock is forcibly attacked, using a plunger and blocking device to arrest the bolts in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a primary locking mechanism is used to secure the connecting portion, then the lock apparatus can be operated and unlocked, but the lock apparatus has weak points that can be forcibly attacked and displaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidsecurity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into two independent segments: a primary lock that allows normal operation and unlocking, and a secondary lock that provides backup security. The primary lock includes a bolt movable between locked and unlocked positions, while the secondary lock includes a separate bolt that remains engaged unless specifically activated. This segmentation allows the system to maintain ease of operation through the primary lock while adding security through the secondary lock that requires separate activation steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The secondary locking mechanism is pre-positioned and spring-biased to automatically engage when the primary lock is displaced from its locked position. This preliminary action ensures that if someone attempts to forcibly attack or manipulate the primary lock, the secondary lock is already in place to prevent unauthorized unlocking, thereby addressing the security weakness before it can be exploited.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the primary lock is made stronger to resist forcible attacks, then security improves, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of making a single complex strong lock, the system segments the locking function into two simpler locks: a primary lock for normal operation and a secondary lock for security. Each lock can be designed and manufactured independently using standard components, reducing overall complexity while maintaining or improving security through the layered approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A cam mechanism acts as an intermediary that links the primary and secondary locks. When the primary bolt is displaced, the cam translates this motion into activation of the secondary locking mechanism. This intermediary component automates the interaction between the two locks, reducing the need for complex control systems while ensuring the secondary lock engages properly in response to primary lock manipulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12577809B2Lock apparatuses with secondary locking mechanisms
Publication Date: 2026.03.17 SCHLAGE LOCK CO LLC
  • US12577809B2 patent drawing
  • US12577809B2 patent drawing
  • US12577809B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lock apparatus generally includes a connecting portion, a housing, a primary lock, and a secondary lock. The connecting portion is engageable to the housing with a bolt assembly, and the primary lock locks the bolt assembly in the engaged position. The secondary lock arrests the bolt assembly in the engaged and locked condition in response to an attack that displaces the primary lock from a nominal configuration.