Electronic Lock Mechanism for Mechanical Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic locks for gaming devices and similar equipment are unsuitable for replacing standard mechanical locks, requiring extensive conversion and incurring high costs due to mechanical re-fitting and downtime, and lack features like battery backup and external override.
Innovation Solution
An electronic lock designed to match the footprint of existing mechanical locks, featuring a motorized mechanism with a cam and tang system for secure operation, battery backup, and external override capabilities, integrated with network control for secure access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing electronic locks are used to replace mechanical locks, then electronic access control functionality is achieved, but extensive mechanical re-fitting and conversion are required
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock is designed to copy the exact exterior profile, dimensions, and mounting configuration of the original mechanical lock. This allows the electronic lock to be installed in the same opening without requiring any mechanical re-fitting or conversion of the cabinet structure, thereby achieving electronic access control while eliminating extensive manufacturing modifications.
2Extent of automation
If existing electronic locks are used to replace mechanical locks, then electronic access control is implemented, but installation downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
By copying the mechanical lock's exact form factor and mounting interface, the electronic lock can be installed in the same opening without requiring additional construction work or equipment relocation. This direct replacement approach minimizes installation downtime while implementing electronic access control functionality.
3Device complexity
If mechanical locks are used, then simple structure is maintained, but key management complexity and security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical key-based locking system is replaced with an electronic locking mechanism that uses electronic authentication (such as RFID cards, biometric sensors, or coded keypads) to control access. This substitution eliminates the need for physical key management while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure, thereby reducing operational complexity associated with key distribution and security breaches.
4Extent of automation
If mechanical locks are replaced with electronic locks requiring conversion, then electronic functionality is achieved, but conversion costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock is designed to match the mechanical lock's exterior profile and mounting requirements exactly, allowing it to be installed in the same opening without requiring any mechanical re-fitting, cabinet modifications, or additional construction work. This direct replacement approach achieves electronic lock functionality while minimizing conversion costs by eliminating the need for expensive mechanical adaptation work.
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
Enables seamless replacement of mechanical locks with reduced conversion costs and downtime, providing reliable and secure access management with features like battery backup and external override, suitable for various applications beyond gaming devices.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is disposed between at least one of the bolt and sleeve to rotate at one end a cam. At least one tang is disposed between said bolt and sleeve and includes a follower engaging the cam.
Implementation Method 2
The cam in a first position causes the tang to capture the sleeve in the retained position and in a second position to release the sleeve for axial displacement from the retained position to a released position.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic lock and system particularly for replacing existing mechanical locks for enclosures including gaming devices are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, the gaming device includes a cabinet having a chassis and a main gaming device door locked by a mechanical lock. The electronic lock is configured to have a profile to replace the existing mechanical locks and includes a rotatable bolt receiving a sleeve. In a retained and locked position the sleeve is within the lock barrel and an operator is nested in a pocket in the barrel head. Upon receiving a command a motor rotates a cam and the sleeve is released to axially move to release the operator from the pocket for rotation of the sleeve and bolt to unlock the door. Sensors sense for fault conditions. Authentication is required to provoke the opening command. Opening events may be logged at a system server or local memory.