Touch-Activated Cabinet Latch With RFID Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cabinetry access control devices are often cumbersome, require precise machining, and may not adequately control access, especially in environments where access needs to be limited to authorized persons or time-stamped.
Innovation Solution
An electro-mechanical locking system with a rotatable latch receiver, lever arm, actuator, and sensors that can be controlled to unlock or lock cabinetry with touch or push activation, utilizing an external access control device like RFID for secure access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional access control devices are used for cabinetry, then security control is provided, but the devices are burdensome to use and require exceedingly fine exact machining
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key-based locking systems with an electro-mechanical system that uses a motorized actuator to rotate a latch receiver. This substitution eliminates the need for precise mechanical key-cutting and machining while providing reliable access control through electronic authentication methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the authentication system and the mechanical latch mechanism. The controller receives authentication signals, processes them, and then commands the actuator to rotate the latch receiver accordingly, providing a buffer that simplifies both operation and mechanical design requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional access control devices are used for cabinetry, then security control is provided, but the devices may insufficiently control access to the enclosed storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The latch receiver is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be rotated to locked and unlocked positions by the actuator, and it can also be manually manipulated by users to open the cabinet. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide both automated security control and manual access capabilities without requiring separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the automated electro-mechanical locking mechanism with manual override capability in a single integrated system. The latch receiver serves as the common element that can be actuated either electronically or manually, merging two access methods into one unified device that reduces overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If an electro-mechanical locking system is implemented, then access control reliability is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional modules: an authentication module, a controller, a motorized actuator, and a latch receiver. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture, making the electro-mechanical system more manageable despite its increased complexity compared to traditional mechanical locks.
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
Provides controlled and secure access to cabinetry with reduced complexity, allowing for easy integration with various access control methods, enhancing user convenience and security.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator for driving the lever arm to an unlocking position
Implementation Method 2
a first sensor for detecting an indication of inward movement, relative to the cabinetry, of the latch striker
Data Source
AI summary
An electro-mechanical locking device, particularly for cabinetry, with some embodiments used in connection with a drawer slide.