Door Lock Learning Mode Using Cylinder-Switch Authorization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing door locks face challenges in securely programming transmitters without complex mechanical components and risk of unauthorized access, particularly when the programming button is covered and requires a key for access.

Innovation Solution

Integrate a lock cylinder switch into the programming process, requiring simultaneous actuation with a learning button to enable secure programming, eliminating the need for a mechanical cover and ensuring only authorized individuals can program transmitters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a mechanical cover is used to protect the programming button, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against unauthorized accessVSAvoidmechanical cover structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cover system with an electronic authentication system. Instead of using a physical cover that requires manual removal, the invention uses a microprocessor-controlled system that authenticates the user through a code entry mechanism. This substitution eliminates the mechanical cover while maintaining security through electronic verification of authorization codes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a microprocessor and code entry mechanism as an intermediary between the user and the programming function. This intermediary layer verifies authorization through code input before enabling access to programming modes, replacing the direct mechanical access control of the cover system with a more sophisticated electronic mediation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the programming button is made accessible through the lock faceplate, then ease of operation is improved, but security against unauthorized programming deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming button accessibilityVSAvoidsecurity against unauthorized programming
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system monitors code entry and provides authentication verification before enabling programming functions. The microprocessor evaluates the entered code against stored authorization data and only permits programming access when proper authentication is received, creating a feedback loop that balances accessibility with security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the access parameter from physical accessibility (button location) to authentication parameters (code verification). Instead of controlling access through the physical position or protection of the programming button, the system uses parameter-based authentication through code entry, allowing the button to remain accessible while controlling functionality through logical parameters rather than physical constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4524350B1Lock
Publication Date: 2025.12.10 CARL FUHR GMBH & CO
  • EP4524350B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4524350B1 patent drawingFigure 2~5
  • EP4524350B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a lock (2), in particular a door lock, comprising at least: - a lock housing (8), - a locking cylinder (28), - a locking element (9), - an actuating device, e.g., a lock follower (15), for actuating, e.g., for retracting, the locking element (9), - an activation device, with a drive (24) arranged in or on the lock housing (8), by which the actuating device (15) can be activated, wherein the activation device comprises a control unit (25) and a receiver and is equipped with or connected to a learning device by which the activation device can be put into a learning mode in order to teach a transmitter (30) to the activation device or its control unit (25). The learning device comprises a learning button (26) and a lock cylinder switch (27), which can be actuated with the lock cylinder (28) to select the learning mode. The activation device orIts control system is configured such that the activation device is only put into learning mode when both the learning button (26) and the lock cylinder switch (27) are actuated. To be published with Fig. 7.