Zipper Lock With Internal Actuator for Child Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zipper locks do not effectively prevent small children from opening zippers on receptacles, especially when carrying medications or hazardous substances, and often require complex key or code systems for access.
Innovation Solution
A zipper lock with a chain and slider mechanism that uses a child-safe actuator to move between a retaining and releasing position, allowing for easy access by adults while preventing children from opening the zipper, with the locking member positioned inside the receptacle to enhance safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional zipper lock mechanism is used, then the zipper can be secured, but small children can still open it easily and complex key or code systems are required for access
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two distinct functional parts: a child-resistant locking component that prevents accidental opening, and a simple actuator mechanism that enables easy opening by adults. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional locking approach by placing the locking member inside the receptacle rather than outside. This internal positioning makes the lock inaccessible to children who cannot reach inside, while still allowing adults to operate it through the external actuator mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the locking member is positioned outside the receptacle, then it is easily accessible, but children can access and open the zipper
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional locking approach by placing the locking member inside the receptacle rather than outside. This internal positioning makes the lock inaccessible to children who cannot reach inside, while still allowing adults to operate it through the external actuator mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism serves as an intermediary between the external environment and the internal locking member. It transmits the opening force from the outside while maintaining the protective barrier that prevents direct child access to the locking component.
3Ease of operation
If a simple zipper without lock is used, then access is easy, but the zipper can be opened accidentally by children
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-activating through the actuator system. When the actuator is engaged, it automatically positions the locking member to secure the zipper without requiring additional steps or complex user actions, maintaining simplicity while ensuring safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for a zipper, the zipper comprising a chain and a slider, the chain being moveable to adopt an open and a closed configuration through movement of the slider with respect to the chain, the lock adapted to retain the slider with respect to the chain by abutting a surface of the slider.