Deadbolt Status Indicator Using Magnetic Sensor and Wireless Transmitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Home security systems often fail to inform users whether a deadbolt is locked or unlocked, and existing electronic solutions are expensive and difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a flexible or rigid material designed to fit over a deadbolt lock turnpiece, equipped with a sensor to detect the locked or unlocked position and a wireless transmitter to send this information, which can be integrated with existing deadbolt hardware without requiring tools or complex installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic door locks with remote access are used, then the ability to lock and unlock deadbolt remotely is improved, but the cost and installation difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent parts: the existing mechanical deadbolt remains unchanged, and a separate indicator device with sensor and transmitter is added. This segmentation allows the remote indication capability to be added without modifying or replacing the entire locking mechanism, thereby reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator device serves multiple functions: it detects the deadbolt position, wirelessly transmits status information, and provides remote indication capability. By combining these functions in a single additive device rather than requiring a complete electronic lock system, the solution achieves multi-functionality with reduced complexity.
2Ease of operation
If electronic door locks with remote access are used, then the ability to lock and unlock deadbolt remotely is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The essential function of remote status indication is extracted from the complex electronic lock system. Instead of implementing a full electronic lock with motor, circuit board, and power management, only the sensing and wireless transmission components are used, dramatically reducing cost while maintaining the core capability of remote deadbolt status monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator device uses inexpensive components such as a simple position sensor, battery power source, and wireless transmitter. These low-cost elements provide the necessary functionality without requiring expensive electronic lock hardware, making the solution economically viable.
3Loss of information
If a sensor and wireless transmitter are added to indicate deadbolt status, then the ability to monitor locked/unlocked state is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor, transmitter, and power source are integrated into a compact indicator device that can be attached to the existing deadbolt assembly. This nesting of components within a single attachable unit minimizes the number of separate installation steps and reduces overall complexity compared to distributing components throughout the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator device is designed to be self-contained with its own power source (battery) and requires no wiring to the door's electrical system. The sensor automatically detects deadbolt position and the transmitter automatically sends status information, eliminating the need for complex installation involving electrical connections or system integration.
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 a cost-effective and simple way to inform users of the deadbolt status, offering peace of mind and compatibility with standard deadbolt mechanisms, reducing the need for complex installations compared to traditional electronic security solutions.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor designed to detect whether the deadbolt lock turnpiece is in a locked or unlocked position such as a horizontal or vertical position
Data Source
AI summary
Universal door lock indicating devices, kits, and methods are described. The kits and devices can include a flexible or rigid material designed to fit over a deadbolt lock turnpiece, or a compartment design to fit adjacent to deadbolt hardware, a sensor designed to detect whether the deadbolt lock turnpiece is in a locked or unlocked position such as a horizontal or vertical position, and a wireless transmitter which can be operatively connected to receive output from the sensor. The methods can include receiving a wireless transmission from a device of the disclosure, and outputting the locked or unlocked status of a deadbolt based upon information in the wireless transmission.