Sliding Lid Lock Box Preventing Partial Key Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current group lock box designs allow partial access to machine keys when the main padlock is removed, compromising security as individual employees can access keys before all padlocks are removed.
Innovation Solution
A group lock box with a sliding lid mechanism, featuring a latch and pin system that requires the lid to be fully extended before it can be lifted, ensuring that all padlocks must be removed for access to the keys inside the box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is designed to be pivotally connected to the body for easy opening, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates because the lid can be partially raised when the main padlock is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The lid must first be fully extended along the guide slots before it can be lifted. This preliminary extension action ensures that the lid cannot be partially raised to access keys unless all padlocks are removed, as the extension path is blocked by the latch mechanism when padlocks are engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
A guide slot and latch mechanism serve as an intermediary between the lid and body. The latch extends into the guide slot on the lid, creating a mechanical interdependence that prevents partial lifting. This intermediary mechanism enforces the security requirement while allowing easy full opening when authorized.
2Device complexity
If a simple padlock system is used for securing the lock box, then device complexity is reduced, but security deteriorates because individual employees can access keys before all padlocks are removed
Solution Approach 1:
The guide slot introduces a new dimensional constraint (horizontal extension motion) to the traditional vertical lifting motion of a lid. This additional degree of control ensures that the lid cannot be partially opened, as the extension path is mechanically blocked by the latch when padlocks are engaged, adding a layer of security control without complicating the padlock system itself.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a secured group lock box. The group lock box includes a body having a latch and a lid connected to the body. The lid includes a main member and a back member. The main member of the lid includes a plurality of slots and the back member of the lid includes a plurality of pins. One of the pins is installed in each of the slots for enabling the main member of the lid to slidingly extend over the body of the group lock box before the lid is rotated away from the body to provide access to the contents therein.