Deadbolt Lock Status Sensing Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door locking systems lack a reliable method for remotely sensing and indicating the positional status of a deadbolt lock, which can compromise security and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A deadbolt lock status sensing assembly that includes a magnetically active sensible element and a sensing element, configured to move with the deadbolt member between extended and retracted conditions, providing a status signal that can be wirelessly transmitted to a receiver for alerting purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a deadbolt lock system is used without remote sensing capability, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to remotely monitor lock status is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sensing mechanisms with a magnetic field-based sensing system. The sensible element (magnet) and sensing element (magnetic sensor) configuration eliminates the need for mechanical linkages, switches, or complex moving parts while accurately detecting deadbolt position through magnetic field interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the deadbolt mechanism and the sensing system. The sensible element attached to the deadbolt member modulates the magnetic field, which the sensing element detects, providing indirect but reliable status information without direct mechanical contact or complex transmission mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic sensing system is implemented to detect deadbolt position, then remote monitoring capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing system is configured to automatically detect and report deadbolt status without requiring user intervention for calibration or adjustment. The magnetic field interactions occur passively as the deadbolt moves, and the sensing element continuously monitors the field, providing autonomous operation that simplifies user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting both locked and unlocked positions, providing status information for security systems, and potentially integrating with alarm or notification systems. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single magnetic sensing configuration that can interpret various deadbolt positions.
3Measurement precision
If the sensing element is configured to move with the deadbolt member, then accurate position detection is improved, but the reliability of the sensing system may be compromised due to mechanical coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling between the sensing element and deadbolt member with magnetic field-based detection. The sensible element (magnet) is attached to the deadbolt, and the sensing element (magnetic sensor) detects changes in the magnetic field as the deadbolt moves, eliminating mechanical wear, friction, and coupling failures while maintaining precise position detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary that transfers position information from the deadbolt to the sensing element without direct physical contact. This indirect coupling through the magnetic field provides reliable sensing while isolating the sensing element from mechanical stresses, vibrations, and wear associated with direct mechanical attachment.
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 remote monitoring and alerting of the deadbolt lock status, enhancing security and user convenience by providing real-time information on the lock's position without requiring physical interaction.
Implementation Method 1
The assembly may also include a sensing element mountable on one of the door and the deadbolt assembly. The sensible element and the sensing element may be configured to move with respect to each other when the deadbolt member of the deadbolt assembly moves between an extended condition and a retracted condition of the deadbolt.
Data Source
AI summary
A deadbolt lock status sensing assembly for monitoring status of a deadbolt member of a deadbolt assembly on a door may include a sensible element mountable on one of the door and the deadbolt assembly, and a sensing element mountable on one of the door and the deadbolt assembly. The sensing element and the sensing element may be configured to move with respect to each other when the deadbolt member of the deadbolt assembly moves between an extended condition and a retracted condition of the deadbolt.