Locking Mechanism for Network Sockets Using Translational Key Motion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locks for electrical and telecommunications network sockets require a universal key for all locks, leading to unauthorized access and mechanical stress due to key rotation, resulting in rapid deterioration.
Innovation Solution
A lock design with a movable locking member that can be unlocked by key insertion in translation, reducing mechanical stress and allowing for unique key shapes and combinations to limit access, featuring a partitioned body and elastic return mechanism for automatic locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a universal key is used for all locks, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened because unauthorized access to multiple sockets becomes possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing each lock with a unique key shape corresponding to a specific imprint pattern on the locking member. Instead of using identical universal keys for all locks, each lock has an asymmetric key-imprint configuration that prevents unauthorized access while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users with the correct key.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by customizing the imprint pattern and key shape for each individual lock. Each lock has its own specific local characteristics (unique imprint and corresponding key) rather than a uniform design, allowing differentiated access control while preserving operational simplicity for authorized users.
2Ease of operation
If the key is rotated to deform the locking tongue, then unlocking function is achieved, but mechanical stress and friction increase causing rapid deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional unlocking mechanism instead of rotating the key to deform the locking tongue, the key is inserted in translation only to move the locking member. The locking tongue is then actuated by the linear motion of the key rather than by rotational deformation, reversing the cause-effect relationship and eliminating excessive friction and mechanical stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the rotational mechanical system with a translational linear system. Instead of using rotational motion to deform and move the locking tongue, the invention uses linear translation of the key to directly move the locking member, substituting a simpler mechanical action that reduces wear and extends service life.
3Ease of operation
If the locking member is made movable to enable unlocking, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the locking mechanism into distinct functional components: a movable locking member with imprint, a corresponding key, and a locking tongue. This segmentation allows the locking member to be independently actuated by the key in translation, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining unlocking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the locking member movable relative to the body along the insertion axis. This dynamic element allows the locking member to be positioned in different states (locked/unlocked) through simple translational motion of the key, achieving operational ease without excessive structural complexity.
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 solution enhances the service life of the lock by reducing friction and mechanical stress, while enabling secure, differentiated access to sockets through unique key shapes and combinations.
Implementation Method 1
The lock may include elastic return means able to return the locking member to its blocking position. In this way, the lock is automatically locked after fitting into the socket and/or after removing the key.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
Lock (1) intended for locking an electrical and/or telecommunications network socket comprising a body (2) intended to be inserted into a socket housing, said body (2) having at least one impression intended to correspond to the shape of a key (29), and a tab (11) movable relative to the body (2) between a locking position, in which it is able to block said body (2) in the socket housing, and an unlocking position, in which it allows the removal of the body (2) from said housing.