Automated Door Lock Magnet Sensor Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated door locks lack a discreet and reliable method to detect when a door is fully closed, which is essential for automatic locking and notification systems, often relying on external sensors that are visible and not always accurate.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a magnet and reed switch sensor system within the lock plate assembly, where a magnet on one plate interacts with a sensor on another, allowing the control logic to determine the door's closure state without visible external sensors, enabling automatic locking and notifications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external sensors are used to detect door closure, then detection function is provided, but the sensor becomes visible and less discreet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor closure detection accuracyVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor is merged with the lock plate assembly, combining the detection function with the existing structural component. This integration allows the sensor to be positioned internally within the lock mechanism rather than externally, maintaining aesthetic appearance while preserving detection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor is nested within the lock plate assembly structure, placing the detection component inside the existing lock housing. This nesting approach hides the sensor from external view while maintaining its operational effectiveness for detecting door closure state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Shape

If a magnet and sensor system is integrated within the lock plate assembly, then the sensor becomes hidden and discreet, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidlock assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock plate assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support for the lock mechanism, houses the sensor component, and contains the magnet for detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity despite adding detection capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnet and sensor system within the lock plate assembly operates autonomously to detect door closure without requiring external power sources or additional control mechanisms. The existing lock plate structure serves as the mounting platform, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and reducing assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution provides a hidden and accurate detection of door closure, enabling automatic locking and timely notifications, enhancing security and user convenience while maintaining a sleek design.

Implementation Method 1

Incorporating a magnet and reed switch sensor system within the lock plate assembly, where a magnet on one plate interacts with a sensor on another

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10895094B2Automated door lock
Publication Date: 2021.01.19 CONSUMER 20 INC
  • US10895094B2 patent drawing
  • US10895094B2 patent drawing
  • US10895094B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An automated door lock includes a bolt and bolt housing. A lock interior part is attachable to an inside portion of a door. The lock interior part includes control logic that controls operation of automated door lock including movement of the bolt into and out of the bolt housing. A first lock plate is attachable to a door frame. The first lock plate includes a magnet. The second lock plate is attachable to a door. The second lock plate includes a sensor electrically connected to the control logic. The sensor detects magnetic field strength. The magnet is located on the first lock plate and the sensor is located on the second plate so that when the door is closed, the sensor and the magnet are aligned to maximize strength of the magnetic field detected by the sensor.