Electronic Cable Lock with Tamper Detection and Motorized Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable lock systems lack tamper-proof features and electronic means to detect unauthorized access or attempts at tampering, making them insecure against theft and easy to breach.
Innovation Solution
An electronic cable lock system with a card reader, key-operated cylinder lock, hardened metal plates, tamper-detection mechanisms, and multiple locking plates with low-force motor operation, along with cable breach detection methods such as resistance measurement and vibration sensing, to provide secure and tamper-proof locking with alarm functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cable lock systems are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but they lack tamper-proof features and electronic detection capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking mechanisms (cylinder lock, locking plates, detents) and electronic detection systems (sensors, alarm) into an integrated cable lock housing. This merging of mechanical and electronic systems resolves the contradiction by creating a unified tamper-proof system that detects and responds to unauthorized access attempts, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock case is constructed from hardened materials resistant to drilling, sawing, and other forms of tampering. This use of composite and hardened materials improves the tamper-proof security by creating a physically robust housing that resists conventional attack methods, while the electronic components add detection capabilities without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If lock case is made simple, then ease of manufacture is improved, but it can be opened relatively easily to gain access to the lock mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The lock case is constructed from hardened materials resistant to drilling, sawing, and other forms of tampering. This use of composite and hardened materials improves the lock mechanism protection by creating a physically robust housing that resists conventional attack methods, while maintaining manufacturability through standardized hardening processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes sensors that detect tamper attempts before the lock can be successfully opened. Electronic sensors monitor for drilling, sawing, or forced entry attempts and trigger alarms or lockout mechanisms in advance, preventing successful access to the lock mechanism. This preliminary detection and response protects the lock mechanism without requiring excessively complex physical barriers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single locking mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but it lacks multiple mode options for activating the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system is designed to accept multiple types of keys or credentials (traditional keys, electronic cards, biometric data) that can all activate the same locking mechanism. This multi-functionality provides versatility in unlocking options while managing complexity by using a universal lock actuation system that responds to different authentication methods through a common mechanical interface.
Solution Approach 2:
An electronic control system serves as an intermediary between various authentication methods (keys, cards, biometrics) and the mechanical locking mechanism. This mediator translates different authentication inputs into a unified signal that actuates the lock, providing multiple unlocking options while keeping the core locking mechanism relatively simple and manageable.
4Reliability
If no tamper detection is included, then device complexity is lowered, but it cannot provide alarm in response to tampering attempts
Solution Approach 1:
Electronic sensors continuously monitor the lock case and cable for signs of tampering (drilling, sawing, forced entry) and provide feedback to a control system. When tamper conditions are detected, the system triggers an alarm and can activate lockout mechanisms. This feedback loop provides reliable tamper detection while managing complexity through standardized sensor and control circuitry integration.
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 system ensures secure retention of items, provides multiple unlocking options, and effectively detects unauthorized access or cable breaches, enhancing security against theft and tampering.
Implementation Method 1
A motor, actuated by a card reader, rotates a double-lobed cam which, in turn, acts upon the opposing locking plates
Implementation Method 2
one Hall-effect sensor is used to detect when the motor/cam is in its locked position and its unlocked position
Implementation Method 3
an o-ring is provided on the end plug to seal the connection against water entry
Data Source
AI summary
An electromechanical cable lock system comprising an electromechanical locking mechanism including a cable having at least one plug end receivable in the locking mechanism and a plurality of slidable locking plates engageable with the plug in said locking mechanism. At least one of the locking plates is capable of movement in a first direction different from the movement of a second of said locking plates in a second direction. The locking plates are driven by a motor-driven cam mechanism. The system includes a card reader or other credential verifying device and an electronic controller for activating the locking mechanism, The system also includes a barrel lock for over-riding the electronic controller. A plurality of features can detect and alarm in the event of tampering or unauthorized entry.