Electronic lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock mechanisms for item receptacles are susceptible to theft and require multiple physical keys, often lack reliable power sources, and are inefficient in terms of power consumption and security.

Innovation Solution

A wireless power system or inductive power transfer system powers an electrical lock mechanism with a motorized unlocking mechanism that uses a pinion gear and rack system, requiring minimal power and allowing secure, efficient unlocking via a mobile device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a motorized unlocking mechanism with pinion gear and rack system is used, then security and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical key-based locking systems with an motorized unlocking mechanism that uses a pinion gear and rack system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical keys while providing enhanced security through controlled motor actuation and digital authorization methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The motorized unlocking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides secure locking, controlled unlocking through digital authorization, and can be integrated with wireless power systems. The single mechanism handles both security and operational control functions that would otherwise require separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If wireless power system or inductive power transfer system is used to power the lock mechanism, then power efficiency is improved, but reliability of power supply worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidpower supply reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a wireless power transfer system as an intermediary between the power source and the lock mechanism. This intermediary uses inductive coupling to transfer energy without physical contact, reducing power consumption while enabling the lock to function autonomously. The system includes a power receiver in the lock and a transmitter that can be a mobile device or fixed infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism is designed to power itself through wireless energy harvesting. The power receiver in the lock captures energy from the wireless field and stores it in a capacitor or battery, allowing the lock to operate independently without external wiring or frequent battery replacement. The system harvests power on-demand during unlocking operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 provides secure, efficient, and power-efficient unlocking of receptacles using a wireless power source, reducing the need for physical keys and enhancing security through digital authorization.

Implementation Method 1

A wireless power system or inductive power transfer system can be used to power an electrical lock mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive power transfer: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12529245B2Electronic lock
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 US POSTAL SERVICE
  • US12529245B2 patent drawing
  • US12529245B2 patent drawing
  • US12529245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lock can include a motor assembly, a gear assembly, and an unlocking assembly. The motor assembly can include a motor and a drive shaft. The gear assembly can include a cam, a pinion gear, and a pinion. The pinion gear can include a plurality of teeth disposed along only a portion of a perimeter of the pinion gear. The pinion gear can be configured to engage the pinion. The pinion can be configured to translate laterally to release a biasing member to unlock a door of a container.