Electronic Device Combination Lock with Universal Engaging Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locks for electronic devices are complex, costly, and lack versatility due to varying lock hole types and sizes, making them impractical and inconvenient for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A combination lock design featuring a main body with digit wheels, a slot-head rod, engaging arms with elastic members, and a lock cable that can accommodate different lock hole types, including slot-head, cross, and fishtail, using a spring and hook portions to securely engage with lock holes of varying sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional locks with different components and mechanisms are used for different lock hole types, then adaptability to various electronic devices is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock body is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple lock hole types (slot-head, cross, fishtail) through a single mechanism. The engaging arm with hook portion and elastic member can adapt to different lock hole configurations without requiring different lock components, thereby achieving multi-functionality while maintaining simple structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging arm is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and orientation to match different lock hole types. The elastic member enables the engaging arm to flex and adapt to various lock hole geometries, providing adaptability without complex mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional locks with precise assembly requirements are used to achieve both key and digit dial functionality, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into independent functional modules: the digit dial mechanism for combination input, the engaging arm with hook portion for mechanical engagement, and the elastic member for providing force. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured and assembled separately with lower precision requirements, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging arm acts as an intermediary between the digit dial mechanism and the lock hole. It translates the rotational input from the digit dial into linear motion that engages or disengages the hook portion from the lock hole, enabling dual functionality through a simple mechanical intermediary rather than complex integrated mechanisms.
3Reliability
If conventional locks with multiple components are used, then locking reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture and assembly are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into fewer components. The engaging arm combines the functions of providing engagement force (through elastic member), achieving mechanical engagement (through hook portion), and responding to input (through pivoting connection). This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining reliable locking functionality and simplifying assembly.
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 provides high applicability and cost-effectiveness by allowing secure engagement with various lock hole types, reducing component complexity and assembly costs while maintaining ease of use and effective anti-theft functionality.
Implementation Method 1
An elastic member is disposed on the locating portions of the two engaging arms, and through elastic force, the elastic member is adapted to keep the engaging arms to clamp on the slot-head rod as an initial positions.
Implementation Method 2
a spring disposed on the main body is coupled between the lock block and the digit wheels.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination lock for electronic devices may include a shell, a pushing button, two engaging arms, and a lock cable. The main body has a plurality digit wheels disposed at an end thereof, and the digit wheels are configured to control whether the main body is able to move in axial direction. Moreover, the main body includes a slot-head rod at the other end thereof, and a lock block is installed between the slot-head rod and the digit wheels. Also, the lock block comprises a first inclined portion faced to the slot-head rod, and a spring disposed on the main body is coupled between the lock block and the digit wheels. Each of the engaging arms has a connecting portion and a hook portion, and a locating portion is formed therebetween. An elastic member is disposed on the locating portions of the two engaging arms.