Storage Cabinet Cam Latch Mechanism for Selective Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular storage and support assemblies lack improved locking and un-locking features, necessitating a system that provides enhanced security and flexibility in managing access to storage compartments.
Innovation Solution
A storage cabinet with a housing featuring moveable storage devices, a locking mechanism comprising an actuator-driven cam system, a latch with biasing member, and a sensor module, along with a control module and interface module for managing the locking operations, allowing for selective unlocking of individual or all storage devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to storage devices, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with a cam-based system that uses rotational motion to control latch engagement. The cam member rotates to selectively engage or disengage the latch, providing secure locking while reducing mechanical complexity through a more elegant geometric solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the latch mechanism. By introducing this intermediate component, the system achieves secure locking through a simplified transmission path, where the cam's geometric shape converts actuator motion into precise latch control without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
2Ease of operation
If individual storage devices can be selectively locked, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into individual controllable units, with each storage device having its own cam member and latch assembly. This allows selective locking of individual devices while maintaining a standardized modular architecture, reducing overall system complexity through repetition of simple, identical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member and latch assembly serve multiple functions: they provide both locked and unlocked states, can be controlled individually or collectively, and work with standardized storage device interfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for different locking scenarios.
3Reliability
If an actuator-driven cam system is used, then locking reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member uses curved cam surfaces to control latch engagement. The geometric curvature of the cam surfaces provides self-aligning and self-centering effects that compensate for minor manufacturing variations, achieving reliable locking without requiring extremely tight tolerances while maintaining smooth operational motion.
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
The system offers improved locking and unlocking features, enabling secure and flexible access management to storage compartments, ensuring enhanced security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing member biasing the latch toward the latched position
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device having a locking mechanism includes a housing having a frame assembly. A storage device is movably received in the housing. An actuator is connected to the frame assembly, the actuator operating to move a cam member. A latch is connected to the frame assembly and is moved by contact with the cam member from a latched position preventing access to the storage device in the housing to an unlatched position permitting access to the storage device. An unlock-all mechanism operates to move the latch to the unlatched position without operation of the actuator.