The EasyLock, a stainless steel latch and lock plate device weighing less than an iPhone, is said to be the "world's lightest and most practical, temporary door lock", and could be secured on any door in the world that opens inwards.
Small enough to fit into a pocket, the "super strong" portable lock is designed to be a quick and easy way for travellers in hotels, and tenants in rented rooms or shared accommodation, to keep unwanted visitors from accessing your room without permission.
The versatile travel gadget, which costs $US24.95 ($A27.98), is said to be "as light as plastic and as strong as stainless steel" and could be attached to the door frame "in seconds". It also allows users to keep the door secure but slightly open when checking who is behind it or to collect any documents.
The portable device is the invention of Bob Fitzjohn, a 66-year-old entrepreneur who was inspired to create the lock to provide a "100 per cent safe and sound" solution to keep his grandchildren safe on their travels around the world.
"My thinking in creating the lock developed into wanting to provide all others that may find themselves in a vulnerable position with complete security… whether a student in cheap lodgings, an isolated elderly person who fears living alone, or simply you or I when we stay in a B n B or hotel," said Mr Fitzjohn.
Mr Fitzjohn submitted the idea to the crowdfunding website indiegogo.com where it received more than $A18,333 in donations towards its development.
"It is a dream come true that the EasyLock is now available for the public to purchase" he said. "My hope is that the EasyLock will bring safety and peace of mind to many people, right across the globe."
The first production run of the EasyLock is scheduled to be received by October 31 and orders are expected to be fulfilled as soon as they are available for delivery.
The EasyLock is not the only portable locking device to be of interest to travellers in recent months.
Earlier this year, the controversial Knee Defender – a miniature lock consisting of two plastic clips that can keep air passengers from reclining their seats – caused chaos on two flights within days from each other following a row over its use on board.
The pocket-size gadget is adjustable according to how much you want to allow the seat in front of you to recline. The tiny device is about the same size as a house key and is made with "specially shaped grooves" to fit the different seats and tray table found on a variety of planes.
The $US21.95 ($A24.63) lock, available on gadgetduck.com, supposedly "works like a charm" and comes with a "Courtesy Card" that can be given to the passenger in front of you to tell them you're using the clips. The note card provides an extensive explanation including why you are using the Knee Defender, how much (in inches) you are willing to allow the seat to be reclined and asks for notification if the other passenger needs to recline his or her seat at any point during the flight.
The Telegraph, London
