Electromechanical Actuator Retrofit for Tool Box Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard tool storage units face challenges in simplicity, adaptability, and security, as keys are often lost or misplaced, leading to unauthorized access and loss of valuable tools, especially when there are no effective remote or automatic locking solutions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electromechanical actuator that can rotate the lockrod between locked and unlocked positions, allowing both standard key operation and remote or automatic control, enabling retrofitability and secure access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard key lock is used on tool storage units, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but keys can be lost or misplaced resulting in unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a standard key lock mechanism with an electromechanical actuator system into a single integrated locking mechanism. The electromechanical actuator is coupled to the lockrod actuator, allowing both manual key operation and remote electronic control to operate the same physical locking components, thereby improving security without requiring separate locking systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to accept multiple types of operation: traditional manual key insertion and rotation, as well as remote electromagnetic actuation. The electromechanical actuator can directly rotate the lockrod actuator without interference from the key mechanism, enabling the same lock to serve both conventional and modern security needs
2Extent of automation
If a remote electromechanical actuator is added to allow remote locking, then security and remote control capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an electromechanical actuator as an intermediary device between the remote control system and the mechanical locking components. This actuator converts electromagnetic signals into mechanical rotation of the lockrod actuator, bridging the gap between electronic control and mechanical locking without requiring direct integration of complex electronic components into the traditional lock mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is divided into separate functional modules: the traditional key lock mechanism remains intact, while the electromechanical actuator is added as a distinct component that independently controls the lockrod actuator. This segmentation allows the remote control feature to be added without redesigning the entire locking system, minimizing overall complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If the key lock mechanism is modified to allow electromagnetic operation, then adaptability and retrofitability are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lockrod actuator is designed with a universal interface that can be actuated by both manual key rotation and electromagnetic force. The actuator accepts rotational input from either the key mechanism or the electromechanical actuator, allowing the same component to serve multiple functions without requiring precision manufacturing variations for different actuation methods
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 solution provides a secure, adaptable, and user-friendly locking mechanism that allows for remote operation, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and tool loss by enabling keyless entry and exit, while maintaining compatibility with existing tool storage units.
Implementation Method 1
an electromechanical actuator to rotate the lockrod actuator
Data Source
AI summary
An improved method of rotating the lockrod of a tool storage unit to the “locked” or “unlocked” position by use of a linear actuator to rotate the lockrod actuator, where the linear actuator operates electrically, allowing for control by any remotely or automatically operated system. The tool storage unit locking mechanisms include a center-neutral key position that rotates 90 degrees in either direction from center to lock and unlock the unit. This design allows a standard key to operate the locking mechanism, but also allows a secondary mechanism (such as an electromagnetically driven mechanism) to directly operate the lock. Due to its specifics, the design would also allow for retrofitability.