Dual-Mode Lock with Toggle Switch for Failsafe Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locks are either key-based or electronic, with no compatibility between the two, leading to the need for lock destruction when one mode becomes unavailable, such as due to key loss or electronic failure.
Innovation Solution
A lock design that integrates both manual and electronic mechanisms, using a camera or microphone for electronic operation and a motorized mechanism with a toggle switch to move a shackle between locked and unlocked positions, allowing for compatibility and a failsafe option.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock uses only a single unlocking mechanism (either key-based or electronic), then the device structure is simple, but the reliability is poor because the lock becomes inoperable when that single mechanism fails or is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a key-based mechanical unlocking mechanism and an electronic unlocking mechanism (using camera or microphone sensors) into a single lock device. Both mechanisms share common components including the motor, power source, control circuit, and shackle assembly, allowing the lock to be unlocked through either method without requiring separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The lock device is designed with multi-functionality to accept both manual key insertion and electronic authentication (facial recognition via camera or voice recognition via microphone) as valid unlocking methods. The control circuit is configured to respond to either mechanical key operation or electronic sensor input, making the device universally accessible through multiple pathways
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lock provides multiple unlocking mechanisms, then the reliability and usability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a key-based mechanical unlocking mechanism and an electronic unlocking mechanism (using camera or microphone sensors) into a single lock device. Both mechanisms share common components including the motor, power source, control circuit, and shackle assembly, allowing the lock to be unlocked through either method without requiring separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit serves as an intermediary that receives inputs from both the mechanical key mechanism and electronic sensors (camera/microphone), processes both types of inputs, and triggers the motor to unlock the shackle. This intermediary component harmonizes the different unlocking methods without requiring separate control systems
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 users to unlock the lock using either manual or electronic means, providing a failsafe option when one mode is unavailable, enhancing usability and reducing the need for lock replacement.
Implementation Method 1
a motor connected to the circuit controller and the power source, the motor configured to operate in response to a signal from the circuit controller
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic sensor and key operated lock is disclosed which provides users with the option to use at least one of a manually operated mechanism or for example a biometric sensor to unlock the lock. The lock integrates both the manually operated mechanism and a biometric sensor into one device. The manually operated mechanism and a biometric sensor are coupled to a common toggle switch so that operation of at least one of the manually operated mechanism and the biometric sensor moves the toggle switch and a shackle from locked and unlocked positions.