Door Lock Rechargeable Power Interface for Closed-Door Charging

Solution Overview

Problem

Smart doorknobs that require turning or rotation can be cumbersome for individuals with limited mobility or physical disabilities, and they offer limited functionality that cannot be easily expanded without replacing the entire unit.

Innovation Solution

A hands-free bump knob mechanism that allows users to actuate the lock bolt by pushing, with the option to add modules via electrical connectors and hardware adapters for expanded functionality, and a rechargeable energy storage system for power supply.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a rotational knob mechanism is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates for users with limited mobility or physical disabilities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The door lock system is divided into modular components: a base unit and detachable functional modules. The rotational knob is segmented into a push-button module that can be attached to or removed from the base unit, allowing users to choose between rotational and pushing operations based on their needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The door lock mechanism transitions from a static rotational operation to a dynamic push-button operation. The bump knob is designed to be pressed inward to retract the bolt, providing a more accessible operation for users with limited hand strength or mobility, while maintaining the traditional rotational capability through module attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the smart doorknob functionality is fixed at manufacturing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates when additional functionality is needed

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base unit is designed with universal compatibility to accept multiple different functional modules. Electrical connectors and hardware adapters enable the base unit to work with various modules such as alarm systems, access control, and different operating mechanisms, allowing users to expand functionality without replacing the entire lock unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The door lock system is divided into modular components: a base unit and detachable functional modules. The rotational knob is segmented into a push-button module that can be attached to or removed from the base unit, allowing users to choose between rotational and pushing operations based on their needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If traditional rotational operation is used, then the manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates for users carrying items or with occupied hands

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidmanufacturing precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The door lock system is divided into modular components: a base unit and detachable functional modules. The rotational knob is segmented into a push-button module that can be attached to or removed from the base unit, allowing users to choose between rotational and pushing operations based on their needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical rotational operation is substituted with a simpler pushing operation. The bump knob mechanism replaces the need for rotational torque with a linear pressing motion that actuates the bolt retraction, reducing the physical effort and dexterity required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 accessibility and user experience by providing a more intuitive and inclusive door-opening method, catering to diverse user abilities and allowing for customizable functionality without replacing the entire lock unit.

Implementation Method 1

an integrated door lock includes a door lock plate assembly configured to be mounted to an exterior side of a door at a lock region

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRechargeable energy storage: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS20260024391A1Integrated doorlock rechargeable energy storage device and method for recharging thereof

Publication Date: 2026.01.22 VIVINT LLC

AI summary

A door lock may include an exterior door lock plate assembly configured to be secured to a door. The door lock may include electronics configured to execute at least one function to support the door lock. A rechargeable energy storage element may be in electrical communication with the electronics, and be configured to store and supply electrical power to the electronics. An electrical conductor interface element may be in electrical communication with the rechargeable energy storage element. An electrical conductor may be electrically connected between the rechargeable energy storage element and the electronics. A strike plate and/or electrical connector thereat may provide electrical power to the electrical conductor interface element of the door lock using electrical conduction or induction such that power from the strike plate and/or electrical connector is supplied the rechargeable energy storage element when the door is in a closed state.