Deadbolt Status Indicator Light Using Magnetic Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deadbolt locks are difficult to determine as locked or unlocked from a distance or in low light conditions due to the visibility issues with the turnpiece position.
Innovation Solution
A deadbolt assembly that includes a light, such as an LED, actuated by a detection circuit and magnetic sensor system to indicate the bolt's position, allowing users to determine the lock status visually from a distance or in low light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the turnpiece position is used to indicate lock status, then the indication is always visible, but the visibility is poor from a distance or in low light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a light source (LED) that changes its illumination state (on/off or color) to indicate the lock status. When the bolt is in the locked position, the light is activated; when unlocked, the light is inactive. This provides high-visibility indication that works in both daylight and low-light conditions, resolving the contradiction between visibility and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light source as an intermediary between the mechanical lock status and the user's visual perception. The light source is activated by a detection circuit that senses the bolt position, creating an intermediate signal that translates the mechanical state into a visually obvious optical signal, thereby improving visibility without requiring direct observation of the turnpiece.
2Ease of operation
If a light source is added to indicate lock status, then visibility from a distance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing mechanical motion of the bolt and turnpiece to automatically activate the light indication. The detection circuit senses the bolt position through the existing mechanical linkage, and the light source is activated without requiring separate actuators or complex control systems. The mechanical energy already present in the locking mechanism is harnessed to power the indication, minimizing added complexity while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source serves multiple functions: it indicates lock status, provides illumination for the interior cavity, and can be integrated with the existing electrical components of the locking assembly. By making the light source multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby improving ease of operation while limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 clear visual indication of the lock status, enhancing usability and safety by ensuring users can confirm the lock's engagement without direct observation.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet may be provided that is movable with the turnpiece. A processor could be provided that is electrically coupled with a light and a magnetic sensor. The processor could be configured to actuate the light responsive to the magnetic sensor either: (1) detecting the magnet; or (2) detecting the absence of the magnet.
Implementation Method 2
the detection circuit may include a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor, configured to actuate the light responsive to either: (1) detecting the magnet; or (2) detecting the absence of the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A deadbolt lock with an interior assembly having a status light indicator. The deadbolt assembly has a bolt movable between an extended position and a retracted position. An interior locking assembly includes a turnpiece configured to move the bolt between its extended position and retracted position, a light, and a detection circuit. The detection circuit is configured to detect when the bolt is in the extended position and actuate the light responsive to detecting that the bolt being in the extended position.