Bluetooth Latch Fitting with Magnet Override for Child Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child-proof latches for cupboards and cabinets are difficult for adults unfamiliar with their operation to access, and they require complex installation and alignment, making them cumbersome for changing household needs.
Innovation Solution
A child-proof lock mechanism with a catch part and latch assembly that uses a Bluetooth-controlled release arm, a magnet key override, and an app interface for easy installation and remote operation, allowing secure locking and unlocking based on user presence and location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional child-proof latches are used, then children are prevented from accessing cupboard contents, but adults unfamiliar with the latch operation also cannot access the contents
Solution Approach 1:
A magnet key acts as an intermediary device to unlock the latch mechanism. The magnet key contains a magnet that interacts with a magnetically actuable component on the release arm, allowing adults to easily open the latch without complex manipulation, while children cannot obtain or use the magnet key
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical latch operation with a hybrid system incorporating magnetic fields. The release arm contains a magnetically actuable component that responds to the magnet key, substituting complex mechanical manipulation with simple magnetic interaction for adults, while maintaining difficulty for children who lack the magnet key
2Reliability
If complex multi-component latches are used, then child safety is improved, but installation complexity and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism integrates multiple functions into a unified structure. The release arm combines the latching function, the magnetic actuation mechanism, and the child-resistant features into a single component that attaches to the cupboard door, eliminating the need for separate alignment of multiple components
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides child-proof locking, enables easy adult access via magnet key, and incorporates Bluetooth connectivity for remote operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components and simplifies the overall system
3Reliability
If fixed child-proof locks are permanently installed, then child safety is ensured, but adaptability to changing household needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system transitions from a static, fixed state to a dynamic, controllable state. Bluetooth connectivity enables remote actuation of the release arm, allowing the locking state to be dynamically changed based on real-time household needs, such as temporarily disabling the lock when children are supervised or when adults need access
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 lock mechanism provides secure access control for cupboards and drawers, ensuring safety for children while being easily operable by adults, with automatic operation and remote control capabilities, reducing installation complexity and adapting to changing household needs.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet key override
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a child safety locking mechanism 1 for a cupboard or drawer 2 comprising at least one movable door or drawer 3 and a fixed frame 2, and the locking mechanism 1 comprising: a latch assembly 5 and a catch part 4 each fitted on the movable door or drawer 3 and fixed frame, the latch assembly 5 including a latching arm 8 and a latching hook 9, and the catch part including a catch arm 6. The latching hook 9 is aligned to abut against the catch arm 6 in a locked position to prevent the movable door from being fully opened, wherein the latching arm is movable to an unlocked position in which the latching hook 9 is no longer aligned to abut against the catch arm 6 and the movable door or drawer 3 may be opened. Motor driven automatic release means are provided which are remotely actuatable to automatically move the latching arm 8 to the unlocked position when the automatic release means are actuated by a user. The latching arm 8 is moved downwards automatically by the remote actuation of the release arm 20 out of alignment with the catch arm 6. The release arm 20 is mounted on an axle which is rotated by a motor to just a sufficient extent to act on the latch arm 8 to move it out of alignment with the catch arm 6. The latch assembly 5 includes control means for the motor in the form of a circuit board, which also includes a Bluetooth or other radio wave receiver, located in a latch assembly casing 22.