Compact Electronic Cam Lock Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple, reliable, and compact electronic lock that can fit standard cam lock openings, offering both keypad and key operation, suitable for various secure situations like file cabinets, locker doors, and access panels, while being unobtrusive and easy to use.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile, compact electronic lock with a keypad and manual operation via a handle, designed to fit within standard cam lock openings, utilizing coin cell batteries for size reduction, and featuring a rear-extending cam lock cylinder unit with a nut or threaded ring for secure mounting, optionally including a dummy plug or driver for engagement with existing hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an electronic lock is designed to fit standard cam lock openings, then the lock becomes more adaptable to existing hardware, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock is designed with a universal interface that fits standard cam lock openings (3/4 inch D-shaped or double D-shaped holes) while incorporating multiple access methods (keypad, magnetic key, electronic key). The lock body integrates both electronic control components and mechanical cam operation, allowing it to function as both an electronic access control device and a mechanical lock, thereby achieving multi-functionality within a standardized form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic lock components are nested within a compact housing that fits within the standard cam lock opening dimensions. The keypad, battery compartment, electronic control circuitry, and cam mechanism are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller components are housed within or adjacent to larger ones, maximizing space utilization while maintaining compatibility with standard openings.
2Volume of moving object
If the lock is made compact to fit in standard openings, then the housing size is reduced, but battery capacity and electronic components are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The lock components are arranged in a three-dimensional nested configuration rather than a linear layout. The battery compartment, electronic circuitry, and mechanical components are stacked and positioned in different spatial dimensions within the compact housing, allowing efficient use of available volume while maintaining adequate battery capacity and electronic functionality.
3Ease of operation
If manual rotation of the cam lock cylinder plug is permitted, then ease of operation is improved, but security control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on authentication status. When authenticated via keypad or electronic key, the system transitions from a locked state (where manual rotation is prevented) to an unlocked state (where manual rotation is permitted). The cam mechanism includes a locking feature that engages with the plug to prevent rotation when the lock is secured, and disengages to allow rotation when unlocked, providing dynamic control over manual operation.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4A~4B
Figure 5A~5C
AI summary
An electronic lock replaces mechanical locks in cam lock, cabinet lock and switch lock applications, as well as other locks for file cabinets, desk and cabinet drawers, access panels and other secure situations that often utilize relatively simple lock mechanisms. In a preferred embodiment the lock is without a keypad, accessed by an electronic key making contact with a terminal.