Storage Door Locking Mechanism for Overload-Resistant Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices for storage units fail to unlock when too many items are placed inside, as the door is pushed open, blocking the operation of the solenoid and restricting means, preventing the door from being opened by users.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with first and second restricting means, driven by respective drive means, and a manual lever, along with detection and control mechanisms to ensure unlocking even with heavy loads, including a controller to manage operations and notify users of malfunctions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If too many items are placed in the storage unit, then the storage capacity is increased, but the door is pushed in the opening direction which blocks the operation of the restricting means and solenoid, preventing unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into multiple independent components: a locking member for engagement, a restricting means with separate first and second restricting parts, and a solenoid. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, preventing the door push force from blocking the entire unlocking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary between the door and the restricting means. It transmits the door's pushing force through its own movement path while allowing the restricting means to independently control the unlocking operation, thus mediating between the door position and the locking mechanism.
2Force
If the door is pushed in the opening direction by overloaded items, then the hook applies load to the restricting means and solenoid, but this load blocks or disturbs the operation of the restricting means
Solution Approach 1:
The restricting means is designed with dynamic movement capability, allowing the first and second restricting parts to move independently along their respective paths. This dynamic design enables the restricting means to accommodate door position changes caused by overloaded items while maintaining reliable control over the locking member's engagement and disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The restricting means is segmented into multiple restricting parts with independent movement paths, allowing each part to respond differently to applied loads and maintain functional independence, ensuring that loading on one part does not block the operation of other parts.
3Strength
If the operation of the solenoid is blocked by excessive load, then the restriction of the locking member by the restricting means cannot be released, disabling the door from being opened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member serves as an intermediary that can move independently of the solenoid's direct line of action. When the solenoid is blocked by excessive load, the locking member can still be actuated through its own movement path, allowing the door to be opened even when the solenoid cannot directly move the restricting means.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic movement paths for both the locking member and restricting means, allowing them to adapt their motion to bypass mechanical blockages. This dynamic capability ensures that the door can be opened even when excessive load prevents the solenoid from directly actuating the restricting means.
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
Ensures easy unlocking of storage unit doors even when overloaded, preventing solenoid operation failure and enabling smooth door operation through manual intervention and automated controls.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid for operating the restricting means
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention comprises: a lever lock plate 25 that, in a locked state, restricts a first switching operation (first restriction); a first solenoid 22 that drives a first restriction means in order to implement or release the first restriction; a hook 26 that is operable between a closed position at which a door 12 is held in a closed state and an open position at which said hold is released; a locking lever 27 that, in a locked state, restricts operation of the hook 26 from the closed position to the open position (second restriction); a second solenoid 23 that drives the locking lever 27 in order to implement or release the second restriction; and a switching lever 24 that can forcibly drive the first switching operation and the second restriction means.