Electric Lock Switching Sequence for Low-Current Multi-Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric locks require large currents to unlock multiple locks simultaneously, necessitating expensive and space-consuming power sources or complex controllers for sequential unlocking, which adds cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A lock design utilizing an electromagnet and dual switches (normally closed and normally open) to sequentially apply voltage across multiple locks, reducing current requirements by allowing each lock to be unlocked in sequence, with each lock receiving a voltage within 20% of the previous lock's voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple locks are unlocked simultaneously by applying electrical signal to all locks at once, then all locks are unlocked at the same time, but large current is required which necessitates expensive and space-consuming power sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the simultaneous unlocking process into sequential stages by dividing multiple locks into groups. Each group is unlocked in sequence rather than all at once, reducing the peak current demand while maintaining the perception of simultaneous unlocking. The controller manages multiple locking mechanisms through staged voltage application, where each stage unlocks a subset of locks with lower current requirements.
2Power
If sequential unlocking is implemented to reduce current demand, then power source size and cost are reduced, but unlocking time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by applying voltage to different groups of locks in rapid succession through multiple stages. Each group receives voltage pulses in a periodic sequence, creating the perception of simultaneous unlocking while actually using sequential activation. This periodic staging reduces peak current demand compared to true simultaneous activation while minimizing total unlocking time.
3Power
If complex controllers are used to manage sequential unlocking, then current management is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service principles where the locking mechanisms themselves participate in the control sequence. When a lock is activated, it automatically transitions states and can trigger or enable the next stage of unlocking through its own operational characteristics. This reduces the need for complex external controllers by utilizing the inherent properties of the locking mechanisms to manage the sequential process.
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 approach reduces the total current demand, eliminating the need for large power sources and complex controllers, thereby minimizing costs and space requirements while achieving simultaneous unlocking perception.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet configured to open the latch in response to a first voltage being applied across the electromagnet
Data Source
AI summary
A lock includes a latch and electromagnet configured to open the latch in response to a voltage being applied across the electromagnet. The lock includes a normally closed switch configured to open in response to the voltage being applied across the electromagnet. The lock includes a normally open switch configured to close in response to the voltage being applied across the electromagnet. A method of opening a lock includes applying a voltage across an electromagnet in a lock. The electromagnet is configured to open a latch in the lock in response to the voltage being applied across the electromagnet. The method includes causing the electromagnet to open the latch in response to the voltage being applied across the electromagnet. The method includes opening a normally closed switch by applying the voltage across the electromagnet and closing a normally open switch by applying the voltage across the electromagnet.