Threaded Security Knob With Slip Ring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking-type security knobs are cumbersome, expensive, and lack efficient and reliable security without an integral lock mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A security knob with a threaded member and a slip ring featuring an interlocking rotational slip mechanism, combined with a key receiver and retention groove, providing a tamper-resistant design with either male or female threads, allowing for secure operation without a traditional lock.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking-type security knobs with integral lock mechanisms are used, then security reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lock mechanism from the security knob, separating the security function into a distinct key-operated locking component while the knob itself remains a simple threaded fastener. This allows the knob to provide security through its threaded engagement and key-controlled accessibility rather than through an integrated lock mechanism, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining security reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The security system is segmented into separate functional components: the threaded member for mechanical engagement, the slip ring for rotational control, and the key receiver for authentication. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies manufacturing compared to an integrated lock mechanism, while the combination provides reliable security through multiple layers of control.
2Reliability
If locking-type security knobs with integral lock mechanisms are used, then security reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and purchase cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting the lock mechanism from the knob body, the patent enables each component to be manufactured using simpler, more cost-effective processes. The threaded member can be produced through standard threading operations, the slip ring through simple forming, and the key receiver through basic machining or molding, eliminating the need for complex lock mechanism manufacturing while maintaining security reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive materials and manufacturing methods for each component, using standard threaded fastener materials, common metals or polymers for the slip ring, and basic key receiver construction. This approach significantly reduces manufacturing and purchase costs while the modular design allows for easy replacement if needed, maintaining security without requiring expensive integrated lock systems.
3Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then security is provided, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The slip ring component enables dynamic operation where the knob can be freely rotated for normal adjustments, and only locks when a key is inserted and turned. This dynamic behavior provides ease of operation for routine tasks while maintaining security when needed, unlike traditional locks that require key operation for every adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded member and slip ring combination allows the knob to secure itself through its own rotational movement and threaded engagement, without requiring separate locking actions. The key simply initiates the locking by preventing the slip ring from rotating back, while normal operation remains as simple as turning the knob, making it as easy to use as hand-operated knobs while providing security.
Data Source
AI summary
A threaded security knob formed of a threaded member having a generally concentric body defining a central longitudinal axis, the body formed with a threaded portion along the central axis adjacent to a first end thereof, and a key receiver formed in a second end of the body opposite of the threaded portion, wherein the key receiver is formed having one of a plurality of different key receiver configurations; a slip ring having a generally tubular interior side wall sized to fit over and extend along the body of the threaded member in an inseverable and a relatively concentrically rotational relationship therewith; an interlocking rotational slip mechanism coupled between the threaded member and the slip ring; and a key formed with one of a plurality of different key configurations each corresponding to a different one of the plurality of different key receiver configurations of the key receiver.