Electronic Plunger Lock Assembly for Tamper-Resistant Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems, such as those using hasps and padlocks, are vulnerable to tampering and destruction due to exposed and accessible components like the staple and shackle, and can be defeated through nondestructive means like lock picking.
Innovation Solution
A lock design featuring a housing assembly with a retaining plate, anti-tampering plate, and locking assembly that includes a plunger, locking members, and a control assembly with electronic components to enhance security, making it resistant to tampering and requiring electronic interaction for unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional latch mechanisms with exposed staples and shackles are used, then the locking system is simple and easy to operate, but the components are vulnerable to tampering and destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical latch mechanism (staple and hasp) with an electronic locking system that uses electronic sensors, control circuits, and electromagnetic actuators. This substitution eliminates the exposed mechanical components that are vulnerable to bolt cutters while maintaining ease of operation through electronic interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different parts of the locking system. The external housing provides physical protection and aesthetic quality, while the internal electronic components provide security functionality. The locking mechanism is concealed within the housing, making it inaccessible to tampering while the electronic interface remains accessible for operation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional locks with external access points are used, then the lock can be easily operated with keys or combinations, but these access points present vulnerabilities to picking and nondestructive defeat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key or combination interfaces with electronic access methods such as keypads, card readers, or biometric sensors. This eliminates the mechanical linkages between external access points and the locking mechanism, removing the vulnerability to lock picking while maintaining ease of operation through electronic authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic intermediaries (sensors, control circuits, processors) between the user input and the locking mechanism. These intermediaries process authentication information electronically rather than through direct mechanical linkages, preventing traditional picking methods while enabling easy electronic operation.
3Shape
If the locking mechanism components are made smaller and more compact, then the lock is more discreet and less obtrusive, but the components become even more vulnerable to cutting and destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical locking components with electronic ones, eliminating the need for physical shackles and staples that can be cut. The electronic locking mechanism can be made compact without compromising strength, as it relies on electromagnetic fields and electronic authentication rather than physical barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses robust housing materials that provide both compactness and protection. The housing is designed as a composite structure that encloses and protects the electronic components, providing physical strength and tamper resistance while maintaining a compact, discreet form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock comprising a housing, a plunger, a locking member, a locking plate, and a control assembly. The housing having an internal cavity, a recess, and a bore. The plunger is disposed in the bore and is slidable between a closed position wherein a second end of the plunger is positioned in the internal cavity and an intermediate portion of the plunger extends across the recess, and an open position wherein the plunger is withdrawn from the internal cavity and the recess. The locking member is movable between a locking position wherein the locking member is engaged with the plunger and an unlocking position wherein the locking member is disengaged therefrom. The control assembly operates the locking plate between a lock position to hold the locking member in the locking position and an unlock position to permit the plunger to move from the closed position to the open position.