Electronic Barrel Lock Actuator for Utility Meter Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical locks for utility meters, such as barrel locks, are prone to key loss, theft, and unauthorized access due to their finite code limitations and vulnerability to manipulation, leading to difficulties in controlling access and accountability.
Innovation Solution
An electronic barrel lock with a cylindrical head and shank, featuring a movable retaining member and an electrically controlled actuator that changes between locked and unlocked positions in response to a proper signal from a key, utilizing components like shape memory alloys, solenoids, or piezoelectric actuators, ensuring secure and controlled access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical barrel locks are used for utility meters, then the locking mechanism is simple and compatible with existing hardware, but the locks are vulnerable to key loss, theft, and unauthorized access due to finite code limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-and-tumbler system with an electronic locking mechanism that uses electronic codes and actuators. The electronic barrel lock incorporates a control circuit, actuator (such as a motor or solenoid), and code input interface, eliminating the need for physical keys and mechanical tumblers while maintaining the external barrel lock geometry for hardware compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the locking mechanism from mechanical (physical key insertion and tumbler rotation) to electronic (code input, electrical signal processing, and actuator-driven locking). This allows for virtually unlimited code combinations and eliminates key loss and theft issues while maintaining the same external dimensions and mounting requirements.
2Ease of operation
If electronic actuators (shape memory alloys, solenoids, or piezoelectric actuators) are used to control the retaining member, then access control is enhanced and key-related issues are reduced, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical key operation with electronic actuators that respond to code input. The actuator (shape memory alloy, solenoid, or piezoelectric) converts electrical energy into mechanical motion to move the retaining member between locked and unlocked positions, eliminating the need for mechanical keys and tumblers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the actuation method from manual mechanical operation to automated electronic control. The actuator is driven by electrical signals from a control circuit that validates input codes, transforming the operation from physical key manipulation to electronic code-based control with automated actuator response.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the external geometry of the barrel lock is maintained for hardware compatibility, then existing locking hardware can be used, but the internal components must be completely redesigned to incorporate electronic elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the electronic components (control circuit, actuator, code input interface) within the traditional barrel lock body. The electronic elements are contained inside the cylindrical housing, with the actuator positioned to move the retaining member and the control circuit mounted on internal surfaces, allowing the external geometry to remain unchanged while accommodating complex internal electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the electronic barrel lock to serve multiple functions within a single device: code input validation, electronic authorization verification, actuator control, and mechanical locking. This multi-functional integration allows the lock to replace various security mechanisms while maintaining a single standardized external form factor for universal hardware compatibility.
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
The electronic barrel lock provides enhanced security by reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access and key-related issues, allowing for greater control over meter access without the need for frequent rekeying or replacement, while maintaining compatibility with existing hardware.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing components like shape memory alloys, solenoids, or piezoelectric actuators
Implementation Method 2
utilizing components like shape memory alloys, solenoids, or piezoelectric actuators
Implementation Method 3
utilizing components like shape memory alloys, solenoids, or piezoelectric actuators
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic locking mechanism has a body portion with movable retaining members that are controlled utilizing an electrically controlled actuator. The actuator operates the retaining member to move radially outwardly of the body portion circumference in a locked position and allows the retaining member to move radially inwardly of the circumference in an unlocked position. An electronic key can be utilized to operate the electronic locking mechanism.