Dual-Action Window Lock with Rotating Blocker and Tether
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locks for access points are either easy for children to operate or difficult for adults, and they often compromise security by not allowing partial movement of the access point, while dual-action child safety locks are cumbersome for both groups and wear out quickly with repeated use.
Innovation Solution
A window lock with a rotatable locking unit and a blocker that requires a dual-action mechanism, involving axial force and rotation, to transition between locking and unlocking positions, incorporating a key with a complex shape to enhance security and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional latch is used to secure access points, then security is maintained, but the moveable component cannot move partially
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is designed to rotate between locked and unlocked positions dynamically, while the tether allows partial movement of the moveable component. The system transitions from static conventional latches to a dynamic mechanism that adapts to different operational states (fully locked, partially moved with tether engaged, fully unlocked).
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct components: a locking unit with blocking surfaces, a tether with engagement features, and a key-operated mechanism. This segmentation allows the locking unit to remain stationary while the tether engages/disengages to permit partial movement, resolving the contradiction between security and adaptability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a dual-action child safety lock is used, then security against children is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates and durability worsens due to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The key acts as an intermediary tool that mediates the dual-action requirement. Instead of requiring direct dual-action manipulation by the user, the key provides the necessary levers and blocking surfaces that enable the two-step operation (rotating the key to engage/disengage blocking surfaces) while protecting against child operation through the complexity of the key mechanism itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex dual-action mechanism is extracted into a separate key component rather than being integrated directly into the locking unit. This allows the key to handle the complexity of child safety requirements while the main locking unit remains simple and durable, reducing wear on the primary locking components.
3Reliability
If a key mechanism with complex shape is used, then security and child protection are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The key is designed with an asymmetric cross-sectional shape featuring flat sides and rounded corners, along with asymmetric blocking surfaces at different positions. This asymmetric geometry provides enhanced security by preventing simple object insertion while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding or machining processes. The asymmetry is achieved through conventional manufacturing techniques rather than complex multi-step processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for an access point such as a window includes a dual-action locking mechanism with a locking unit and a blocker. The locking unit is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The blocker blocks movement of the locking unit when the blocker is in a blocking position, and permits movement of the locking unit when the blocker is in an unblocking position. The lock may capture an insert attached to a tether to permit partial opening of a window while the unit is locked.