Cylinder Lock Wireless Blocking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cylinder locks are vulnerable to forced entry techniques such as drilling, twisting, bumping, impressioning, and lockpicking, which compromise their security and integrity.
Innovation Solution
A cylinder lock with a configurable internal blocking element that can be controlled wirelessly to block or unblock the keyway, preventing unauthorized access, and a key with an embedded transmitter for secure communication with the lock.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional cylinder lock is used, then the lock is simple in structure and easy to manufacture, but it is vulnerable to forced entry techniques such as drilling, twisting, bumping, and lockpicking
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is made movable relative to the keyway through a configuration mechanism, allowing it to transition between a blocking position (where it obstructs the keyway) and an unblocking position (where it allows key insertion). This dynamic configuration enables the lock to adapt its security state based on operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A blocking element is introduced as an intermediary component between the keyway and the locking mechanism. This blocking element can be positioned to obstruct the keyway, preventing key insertion, or retracted to allow normal operation. The blocking element serves as a mediator that adds a security layer without fundamentally complicating the core locking function.
2Reliability
If a blocking element is added to prevent key insertion, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element transitions from a static obstruction to a dynamic component that can be repositioned. When authentication is required, the blocking element moves to obstruct the keyway. When authorized access is needed, the blocking element retracts to allow normal key insertion and operation, thus maintaining ease of operation for legitimate users while providing security against unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration mechanism receives feedback signals (such as wireless communication signals from a remote control unit) that indicate whether the blocking element should be in the blocking position or the unblocking position. This feedback-based control ensures that the blocking element only obstructs the keyway when authentication has been verified, thereby maintaining ease of operation for authorized users while providing enhanced security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a configurable blocking element controlled by wireless communication is implemented, then the versatility and security of the lock is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element serves multiple functions: it obstructs the keyway to prevent unauthorized access, and it can be retracted to allow authorized key insertion. The configuration mechanism, controlled by wireless communication signals from remote control units, enables the blocking element to adapt its position based on authentication status. This multi-functionality enhances the versatility and security of the lock without requiring multiple separate locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical configuration of the blocking element is replaced with a wireless communication-based control system. Instead of requiring physical keys or mechanical switches to control the blocking element's position, the system uses wireless signals (such as RFID or other short-range communications) transmitted by remote control units. This substitution reduces the need for additional mechanical components and simplifies the overall control system while enhancing security and versatility.
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
Enhances resistance to forced entry and vandalism by ensuring that even a mechanically correct key cannot be used if the blocking element is in the blocking position, reducing the risk of mechanical tampering and providing additional security layers.
Implementation Method 1
the configuration means is (optionally) controllable by wireless communication between the lock and a remote control unit. The invention is also embodied in a combination of such a cylinder lock and a key that corresponds to the said lock, wherein the key is provided with a transmitter and the lock is provided with a receiver, the said transmitter and receiver enable the wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
A cylinder lock includes a housing; a cylinder rotatably provided therein and having first and second ends, the cylinder extending in a longitudinal direction between the first and second ends and including an internal keyway for placing a key corresponding to the lock in the cylinder; a locking mechanism that prevents rotation of the cylinder with respect to the housing when the key is not present in the keyway; a blocking element positioned between the first and second end, and configurable to take a first position wherein the keyway is blocked such that the key cannot be placed in the keyway and a second position wherein the keyway is unblocked such that the key can be placed therein; a configuration device to configure the blocking element in the first or second position, and controllable by wireless communication between the lock and a remote control unit.