Self-Locking Lock with Pivot Arm Blocking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-locking locks require key operation for selective activation or deactivation of the automatic locking function, which is undesirable for intermittent locking scenarios where the bolt is only needed at certain intervals, and the rest of the time, the latch provides a simple, key-free opening mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A self-locking lock design featuring a pivot arm that blocks the slide or drive rod, associated with a locking edge in the locking recess, allowing for easy actuation and independent operation without a key, where the operating element, such as a slide, can be displaced along a faceplate to engage the pivot arm and prevent the slide from shifting into the locking position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a key-operated blocking device with a cam is used to selectively activate or deactivate the automatic locking function, then the locking function can be selectively controlled, but the operation becomes complex and requires a key

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselective activation of locking functionVSAvoidoperation without key
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the blocking function from the key-operated mechanism and implements it through a separate lever (19) that can be independently operated. The lever (19) with its blocking projection (20) can be positioned to block the slide (15) without requiring key operation, thus separating the blocking function from the key cylinder mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is segmented into independent functional components: the slide (15) for locking, the lever (19) for blocking, and the spring (18) for returning. This segmentation allows the blocking function to be operated independently from the locking function, enabling selective activation without key operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Extent of automation

If the slide is spring-loaded in the locking direction with a control part that releases locking, then automatic locking is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic locking functionVSAvoidstructure of locking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The slide (15) is spring-loaded and automatically returns to the locked position without requiring manual intervention. The control part (17) with the release projection (17a) automatically engages with the lever (19) to release the blocking function when the slide moves, enabling automatic locking while maintaining simple structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the automatic locking function with the blocking mechanism by integrating the control part (17) into the slide (15) and the lever (19) into the same assembly. The release projection (17a) and blocking projection (20) work together in a unified mechanism, simplifying the overall structure while achieving automatic locking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a blocking device with cam and locking cylinder is used, then selective deactivation of automatic locking is possible, but the arrangement is restricted and requires key operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselective deactivation of lockingVSAvoidarrangement freedom
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The lever (19) is designed as a movable component that can be freely positioned between blocked and unblocked positions. This dynamic design allows the blocking function to be activated or deactivated as needed without fixed mechanical constraints, providing arrangement freedom while maintaining selective deactivation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Facilitates easy operation and reliable locking without a key, allowing the door to be unlocked without tools, while maintaining the automatic locking function, enhancing user convenience and security.

Implementation Method 1

a spring-loaded control part releases the locking of the slide, which is subjected to a force in the locking direction by means of a spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the locking member is a pivot arm that blocks the slide or the drive rod and which is associated with a locking edge of a locking recess

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical blocking: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

the operating element, such as a slide, can be displaced along a faceplate to engage the pivot arm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2543798B1Automatically actuating lock
Publication Date: 2018.12.12 KARL FLIETHER GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2543798B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2543798B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2543798B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The self locking lock has a slider (15) or connecting rod (2) controlling a bolt and displaceable in longitudinal direction of the lock by a handle or a spanner against a force. A spring-loaded control part releases the bolt fastener during closing of the door under removal of the latching of the slider or connecting rod. The slider or connecting rod is lockable by a locking element (8). The locking element is a swivel arm (9) blocking the slider or connecting rod.