Electro-Mechanical Cabinet Latch with Push-to-Unlock Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access control systems for cabinetry are often cumbersome, require precise machining, and may not adequately control access, particularly in environments where access needs to be limited to authorized persons or time-stamped.
Innovation Solution
An electro-mechanical locking device with a rotatable latch receiver, a lever arm, and an actuator driven by a controller that commands the actuator to unlock only upon specific conditions, such as inward movement of a latch striker detected by a sensor, and optionally requires an external access control device like an RFID for authorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electronically actuated locking mechanism with microprocessor control is used, then access control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism, microprocessor control, motor actuation, and sensor detection into a single integrated electro-mechanical device. The housing contains the microprocessor, while the motor and latch components are mechanically integrated, creating a unified access control system that reduces overall system complexity despite advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides physical locking through the latch receiver and striker, electronic control via the microprocessor, motorized actuation for automated locking/unlocking, and sensor-based detection for access monitoring. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into one device.
2Reliability
If a mechanical latch receiver with rotary motion is used, then locking reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces purely mechanical latch mechanisms with an electro-mechanical system. The motorized actuator provides controlled rotation of the latch receiver, and the microprocessor with sensors replaces complex mechanical timing and positioning mechanisms. This substitution reduces the need for precision machining while maintaining reliable locking through electronic control.
3Reliability
If access control devices are integrated into cabinetry, then security control is improved, but ease of operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically performs locking and unlocking operations without requiring manual intervention. The sensor detects when the drawer is closed and automatically engages the latch, while the microprocessor controls the motor to unlock when access is authorized. This automation eliminates the need for users to manually operate complex locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system between the user and the mechanical locking components. The microprocessor acts as an intermediary that receives access control signals, processes them, and then actuates the motor and latch accordingly. This intermediary layer simplifies user interaction while maintaining secure access control.
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
Provides controlled and secure access to cabinetry, allowing only authorized individuals to access the storage space while maintaining ease of use and reducing the complexity of precise machining requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor for detecting an indication of inward movement, relative to the cabinetry, of the latch striker
Implementation Method 2
an actuator for driving the lever arm to an unlocking position
Data Source
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AI summary
An electro-mechanical locking device, particularly for cabinetry, with some embodiments used in connection with a drawer slide is provided. The electro-mechanical locking device comprises: a rotatable latch receiver for receiving a latch striker; a lever arm for maintaining the latch receiver in a locking position; an actuator for driving the lever arm to an unlocking position; a first sensor for detecting an indication of inward movement, relative to the cabinetry, of the latch striker; and a controller configured to command the actuator to drive the lever arm to the unlocking position based on detection by the first sensor of the indication of inward movement of the latch striker.