Contactless Electronic Lock Powering via Electromagnetic Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic access control systems are prone to failure when power sources are disconnected, requiring physical intervention to restore functionality, which is cumbersome and costly.
Innovation Solution
An electronic lock system that operates using power received from an electronic access apparatus via electromagnetic radiation, eliminating the need for electrical conductor connections, and includes a processor, memory, and a power management module to actuate the lock mechanism with minimal power consumption, allowing operation without a permanent power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic access control systems use batteries or external power sources, then the systems can operate independently, but the systems can stop operating at inopportune times when power is depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock serves itself by harvesting power from the access apparatus during the authentication process. The lock captures and stores electrical energy from the key fob or access device when it comes into proximity, eliminating the need for separate battery replacement or external power intervention. This self-powering mechanism ensures continuous operation without manual power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static power supply model (batteries that deplete over time) to a dynamic power harvesting model. The lock dynamically captures energy moments when access is granted, converting the authentication interaction into a power transfer event. This dynamic approach ensures the lock has power exactly when needed for operation.
2Reliability
If electronic locks require electrical conductor connections for power, then stable power supply is achieved, but the system complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical electrical conductor connections with wireless electromagnetic energy transfer. Instead of requiring physical wire connections between power sources and the lock, the system uses electromagnetic fields to transmit both power and data contactlessly. This substitution eliminates complex wiring infrastructure while maintaining reliable power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The access apparatus serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the authentication credential (storing key identifiers) and the power source. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require separate components (key fob plus power supply plus wiring infrastructure) into a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If mechanical access control systems are used, then no electrical energy is required, but the systems are costly and cumbersome to administer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical locking mechanisms with electronic counterparts that eliminate the need for physical key distribution and manual lock replacement. The electronic system uses wireless communication and embedded memory to store and verify access credentials, allowing centralized management and remote provisioning of access rights without physical intervention at each lock location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental parameters of access control from mechanical (physical keys, manual lock changes) to electronic (digital credentials, wireless communication, centralized management). This parameter transformation enables features like remote key provisioning, access logging, and dynamic permission changes that are administratively much easier than mechanical systems.
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 secure and reliable operation of electronic locks without electrical conductor connections, providing power and communication through electromagnetic radiation, enhancing accessibility and reducing administrative burdens.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic radiation source configured to transmit a wireless digital data signal to an electromagnetic radiation receiver, and transmit a wireless power signal to the electronic lock
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic radiation receiver configured to receive a wireless digital data signal from the electronic access apparatus, and receive a wireless power signal from the electronic access apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of an electronic access control system includes an electronic access apparatus, an electronic lock, and an access control administration program. The electronic access apparatus provides a wireless power signal and a wireless digital data signal to the electronic lock. The wireless power signal can be the only source of power used by the electronic lock to actuate an electronic lock mechanism. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism includes a piezoelectric latch.