Compact Electronic Cam Lock for Standard Cabinet Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple, reliable, and compact electronic lock that can fit in standard cam lock openings, capable of operating with a keypad or electronic key, and suitable for various secure situations such as file cabinets, lockers, and access panels, without requiring additional housing or electronics on the backside of the door or panel.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile, compact electronic cam lock with a keypad or handle that fits within standard cam lock openings, utilizing coin cell batteries for power and featuring a cam lock cylinder unit that extends from the housing, with optional features like a dummy plug or driver for secure mounting, and the ability to be retrofitted to existing cam lock systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a compact electronic lock is designed to fit in standard cam lock openings, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of installation is improved, but the available space for electronic components and battery compartment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock components are nested within a compact housing that fits standard cam lock openings. The battery compartment, electronic circuit board, and mechanical components are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller components are positioned within the limited space of the housing, allowing the lock to maintain standard dimensions while incorporating electronic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock design utilizes the depth dimension of the standard cam lock opening to accommodate electronic components. By arranging components along the depth axis rather than requiring increased width or height, the design fits within standard opening dimensions while providing sufficient space for battery compartment and electronic circuitry.
2Ease of operation
If the electronic lock is made compact to fit standard openings, then the ease of operation is improved, but the battery life and electronic component reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with differentiated local zones: a compact operational interface area for the keypad and cam mechanism, and an expanded internal cavity area for the battery compartment and electronic components. This local quality differentiation allows the external dimensions to remain compact for ease of operation while providing sufficient internal volume for reliable electronic components and long-lasting battery operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic lock replaces traditional cam locks in standard openings, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock housing is designed with universal compatibility for standard cam lock openings, utilizing the same D-shaped or circular opening dimensions as traditional mechanical locks. The mounting mechanism incorporates adjustable positioning features and standardized fastening points that accommodate variations in opening tolerances, allowing the same lock design to be installed in various standard openings without requiring custom fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
A cam lock for cabinets, drawers, drug cabinets, credenzas, sliding doors, lockers, mail boxes and other door type applications is compact in size, fits an existing cam lock opening and provides electronic access via a keypad or other electronic access. Using batteries, such as AAA size batteries or smaller, the lock has electronics that release a lock turn knob or handle when the correct code is entered. Preferably a set of electronic contacts is included at an accessible position on the lock housing to allow both master access and power jumping with a common manager's implement, for situations of lost codes and/or battery failure. In a particular embodiment the lock is long, narrow and low in profile so as to fit on the margin of a steel or wood file cabinet, compatible with the cam lock opening already provided. The locks, NFC-enabled, can be used in securing delivery boxes to enable delivery access, when authorized.