Biometric Trigger Lock with Alarm and Backup Key
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current firearm trigger locks are vulnerable to lock-picking and do not provide secure access for authorized users, as they often rely on mechanical keys or combinations that can be compromised.
Innovation Solution
A trigger lock system with biometric fingerprint recognition capabilities, operatively connectable to a user device for communication, featuring a unique design where the latch is partially exposed inside a receptacle with a lower top than the receptacle opening, making it resistant to picking, and includes a mechanical key mechanism for backup access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If biometric fingerprint recognition is implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple security functions (fingerprint recognition, alarm system, wireless communication, and mechanical key backup) into a single integrated trigger lock device. The control unit coordinates all components, merging biometric authentication, electronic control, and mechanical locking mechanisms into one unified system that provides enhanced security while maintaining manageable complexity through integrated design.
2Reliability
If the latch is lowered below the receptacle opening to prevent picking, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical latch manipulation interface with biometric fingerprint recognition and electronic actuation. The fingerprint sensor and control unit eliminate the need for physical manipulation of the latch, allowing the latch to be positioned lower for security while maintaining ease of operation through contactless biometric authentication. The actuator automatically engages or disengages the latch based on authentication results.
3Reliability
If mechanical key mechanism is included for backup access, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a mechanical key mechanism as a backup access method to cushion against the failure of the electronic biometric system. This redundancy ensures that users can still access the firearm if the battery is depleted or the fingerprint sensor malfunctions, providing beforehand protection against electronic system failures while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical addition to the overall device.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides a trigger lock system that includes a trigger lock that collects a fingerprint and unlocks when the fingerprint matches a stored fingerprint. The trigger lock includes a wireless communication module, for example, Bluetooth module and a Thread module, such that it can connect to a user device by Bluetooth or internet through a Thread router. The trigger lock may be unlocked remotely by sending a command from the user device. The trigger lock may send information of each attempt to unlock the trigger lock by fingerprint to the user device. The trigger lock may send alerts to the user device. The trigger lock also includes an alarm that produces alert when unauthorized personnel attempts to unlock the trigger lock.