Interchangeable Electric Strike Actuator Module for Reliable Door Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically-controlled strikes for doors are costly and complex, with a need for interchangeable actuators that can fit different latch assembly sizes and improve reliability.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable, unitized actuator module for electric strikes that includes a solenoid or motor, with a keeper release and support bracket, allowing for easy retrofitting and compatibility with varying housing depths, and featuring a microcontroller and super capacitor for power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electrically-controlled strikes are used, then door locking function is achieved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The strike mechanism is divided into separate functional modules: a reusable strike body and interchangeable actuator modules. Each actuator module contains its own actuator (electromagnet, solenoid, or motor), keeper release mechanism, and mounting bracket. This segmentation allows the complex actuation logic to be isolated in standardized modules while the strike body remains simple and reusable.
Solution Approach 2:
The strike body is designed with universal mounting features and standardized interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of actuator modules. The same strike body can work with electromagnet actuators, solenoid actuators, or motor actuators, allowing one strike mechanism to serve multiple locking applications without redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom strike mechanisms are designed for different latch assemblies, then compatibility is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the universal strike body from the application-specific actuator modules. The strike body with its entry chamber and mounting features is manufactured once as a standard component. Different actuator modules are manufactured separately and attached to the same strike body, allowing mass production of the common parts while maintaining customization where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The strike body incorporates universal features including standardized mounting holes, an entry chamber that accommodates various latch types, and a keeper mechanism that works with different actuator styles. This universality allows a single strike body design to interface with mortise locksets, cylindrical locksets, and other latch assemblies without requiring custom strike mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable actuator modules are implemented, then versatility and ease of retrofitting are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each actuator module is self-contained with the actuator, keeper release, and mounting bracket as an integrated unit. The module attaches to the strike body through standardized mounting holes and interfaces. This segmentation ensures that the complexity of interfacing between components is encapsulated within each module, while the connection to the strike body remains simple and standardized.
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
Reduces cost and complexity while enhancing reliability and versatility, enabling seamless integration with different latch assemblies and power-efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator module includes a solenoid or motor, with a keeper release and support bracket
Implementation Method 2
The actuator module may include a microcontroller, a constant-current, constant-voltage (CCCV) charger and a super capacitor, the super capacitor being charged after the actuating device is driven from a first position to a second position. The super capacitor then provides a voltage to drive the actuating device from the second position to the first position.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric strike comprising a housing, keeper, actuator module, and actuator. The module comprises a keeper support bracket coupled with the actuator and configured to move between blocking and unblocking positions, and first and second keeper supports extending from opposite ends of the bracket. When the actuator is in a first position, the bracket is in the blocking position so that the first and second keeper supports are coupled to respective first and second ends of the keeper such that a load placed on the keeper when in a locked position is transferred through the keeper supports to a back housing wall. When the actuator is moved to a second position, the bracket is in the unblocking position so that the first and second keeper supports are decoupled with the respective first and second ends of the keeper to allow the keeper to rotate to an unlocked position.