Electro-mechanical Lock Core with Movable Plug and Retainer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock core systems lack an efficient and user-friendly mechanism for transitioning between locked and unlocked states, particularly in small format interchangeable cores (SFICs), which complicates re-keying and integration with modern access methods like smartcards and cellular devices.
Innovation Solution
An electro-mechanical lock core system with a moveable plug and core keeper mechanism, allowing for easy removal and reinstallation using a tool, featuring a cam and control sleeve for rotational locking and an actuator that adjusts between allow and disallow positions, enabling secure and adaptable locking solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional lock core system is used, then the locking mechanism is simple and reliable, but the re-keying process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The lock core is divided into separable components including a key-driven cam mechanism and a motor-driven cam mechanism, allowing independent configuration and replacement of different key formats and access methods without redesigning the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a movable control sleeve that can dynamically switch between locked and unlocked states, and a movable actuator that adjusts between allow and disallow positions, enabling flexible re-keying through positional changes rather than mechanical reconfiguration
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed lock core design is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the integration with modern access methods is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lock core incorporates multiple access methods including traditional key formats, smartcards, proximity cards, key fobs, cellular telephones, and biometric authentication within a single unified mechanism, allowing one lock core to serve multiple functions and accommodate various authentication methods
Solution Approach 2:
The control sleeve acts as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between different access methods and the locking mechanism, translating various authentication inputs into unified control signals that move the control sleeve to appropriate positions
3Ease of operation
If the core keeper is always extended beyond the lock core body, then the lock core body is securely held, but the removal and reinstallation process is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The core keeper is designed as a movable component that can dynamically switch between an extended position (providing secure holding) and a retracted position (enabling easy removal), with its position controlled by the actuator moving between allow and disallow states
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core for use with a lock device having a locked state and an unlocked state is disclosed. The interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core may include a moveable plug having a first position relative to a lock core body which corresponds to the lock device being in the locked state and a second position relative to a lock core body which corresponds to the lock device being in the unlocked state. The interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core may include a core keeper moveably coupled to a lock core body. The core keeper may be positionable in a retain position wherein the core keeper extends beyond an envelope of lock core body to hold the lock core body in an opening of the lock device and a remove position wherein the core keeper is retracted relative to the envelope of the lock core body to permit removal.