Dispenser Electronic Lock with Blocking Member for Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensers for consumable products often require mechanical locks that are cumbersome and require separate key management, and there is a need for a more robust and low-power electronic lock solution that integrates with existing access control systems.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser with a mechanical lock assembly and an electronic lock assembly that includes a blocking member movable between blocking and unblocking positions, controlled by an electric actuator and a control unit, allowing integration with electronic access systems and minimizing weight and wear on the openable part.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical lock assembly is used in the dispenser, then the dispenser can be locked to prevent unauthorized access, but the mechanical lock requires separate key management and is cumbersome to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical lock system with an electronic lock assembly that uses an electric actuator to move a blocking member. The electronic lock receives unlock signals and uses electrical actuation instead of mechanical key operation, thereby eliminating the need for separate key management while maintaining security. The blocking member is movably mounted between blocking and unblocking positions, providing reliable access control through electronic rather than mechanical means.
2Reliability
If the electronic lock assembly is mounted on the openable part of the dispenser housing, then the lock moves with the door, but this adds weight to the openable part and increases wear during opening/closing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lock system into two separate assemblies: a mechanical lock assembly mounted on the openable part and an electronic lock assembly mounted on the fixed part of the dispenser housing. This segmentation allows the electronic lock assembly, which contains the heavy electric actuator and blocking member, to remain stationary on the fixed part. The mechanical lock assembly on the openable part remains lightweight, thus avoiding excessive weight on the moving door while maintaining both mechanical and electronic locking functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic lock assembly is mounted on the openable part of the dispenser housing, then the lock is integrated with the door, but this increases wear and damage risk during opening and closing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lock system so that the electronic lock assembly is mounted on the fixed part of the dispenser housing rather than on the openable part. This positioning ensures that the electronic lock assembly, containing sensitive electronic components and the electric actuator, does not undergo wear during opening and closing operations. The mechanical lock assembly on the openable part handles the mechanical stress of door movement, while the electronic lock remains stationary and protected, thereby improving durability and reliability.
4Reliability
If a blocking member is used to block the mechanical lock assembly, then the electronic lock can prevent unauthorized operation, but this adds complexity to the lock mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a blocking member as an intermediary element between the electronic lock assembly and the mechanical lock assembly. The blocking member is movably mounted and can be positioned to block the operation of the mechanical lock assembly when the electronic lock is engaged. This intermediary approach allows the electronic lock to control access by preventing the mechanical lock from operating, rather than requiring a completely separate locking mechanism. The blocking member adds minimal complexity while providing effective electronic control over the mechanical locking function.
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
The solution provides secure access control that integrates with existing systems, reduces mechanical key management, and ensures robust and reliable operation with low power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an electric actuator arranged for moving the blocking member between the blocking and unblocking positions
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser lock assembly, including a mechanical lock assembly for locking an openable part to a fixed part and an electronic lock assembly, the mechanical lock assembly including a movably mounted part allowing operation of the mechanical lock assembly and a latch connected to the operation part such that upon operation of the operation part the latch is moved from a locked to an unlocked position, the electronic lock assembly including a blocking member movable between a blocking and an unblocking position, an electric actuator for moving the blocking member between blocking and unblocking positions, a receiver for receiving an unlock signal, a control unit that compares the unlock signal to at least one prestored value and upon determining that the unlock signal matches one of the at least one prestored values controlling the electric actuator to move the blocking member from the blocking to the unblocking position.