Electrified Latch Assembly with Compact Rotary-Linear Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic locksets require bulky motors or solenoids that cannot fit within standard installation envelopes, limiting the integration of electronic latch retraction mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tubular latch assembly with a motor-driven rotary member and slide mechanism that allows for electronic latch retraction without the need for bulky components, utilizing a pinion gear and rack member to convert rotational motion into linear motion for latchbolt retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a solenoid or bulky motor is used to provide electronic latch retraction, then electronic actuation capability is achieved, but the device size exceeds standard installation envelopes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solenoid or bulky motor mechanisms with a compact motor coupled to a rotary member that drives a slide member through a latchbolt. This mechanical substitution achieves electronic actuation while significantly reducing the volume of the actuation components, allowing them to fit within standard installation envelopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the motor is coupled to a rotary member that is rotatably mounted within the tubular housing, and the slide member is slidably mounted within the same housing. This nesting of components within the compact tubular structure minimizes the overall volume while maintaining full electronic actuation functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact motor and gear mechanism are used, then device size fits within standard installation envelopes, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a unified mechanism where the motor-driven rotary member simultaneously provides rotational motion and, through its engagement with the slide member, converts this rotation into linear motion for latchbolt actuation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby managing complexity while achieving compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the motor, rotary member, and slide member into an integrated actuation system where these components work together as a unified mechanism. The motor couples to the rotary member, which in turn drives the slide member, combining what could be separate mechanisms into a single compact assembly that fits within standard installation envelopes.
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
Enables electronic latch retraction within standard installation envelopes by using a compact motor and gear mechanism, providing efficient and space-efficient electronic actuation of the latchbolt.
Implementation Method 1
The motor is operable to rotate the rotary member
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a pinion gear and rack member to convert rotational motion into linear motion for latchbolt retraction
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary latch assembly generally includes a tubular housing, a latchbolt, a slide member, a rotary member, and a motor. The latchbolt is mounted for sliding movement in the tubular housing between an extended position and a retracted position, and the latchbolt is biased toward the extended position. The slide member is slidably mounted within the tubular housing and engaged with the latchbolt such that the slide member is operable to retract the latchbolt. The rotary member is rotatably mounted in the tubular housing and engaged with the slide member. The motor is operable to rotate the rotary member in a first rotational direction, and rotation of the rotary member in the first rotational direction drives the slide member in a first linear direction to thereby retract the latchbolt. Further embodiments, forms, features, and aspects of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.