Electronically Operated Latch for Remote Access Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies lack the ability to be remotely controlled and integrated with electronic systems for secure and efficient access management, particularly in furniture items like cabinets and drawers.
Innovation Solution
An electronically operated latch system with a lock and strike mechanism, incorporating RFID, Bluetooth, and USB ports, along with a motor and sensor system for remote control and feedback, allowing for secure and automated locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional mechanical latch assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it lacks remote control capability and cannot be integrated with electronic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a traditional mechanical latch assembly with electronic components including a motorized actuator, RFID reader, Bluetooth module, and control circuitry into a single integrated electronically operated latch system. This merging enables the latch to maintain its reliable mechanical locking function while gaining remote control capability through wireless communication and electronic actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronically operated latch is designed with multiple communication interfaces (RFID, Bluetooth, USB) and control methods (remote control, mobile app, direct electronic control) to perform multiple functions. It can operate as a traditional mechanical latch, a remotely controlled latch, or an electronically monitored access control point, making it adaptable to various application scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic components are added to enable remote control, then access management capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronically operated latch is designed as a modular assembly with distinct functional components: the mechanical latch mechanism, motorized actuator, RFID reader module, Bluetooth module, USB interface, and control circuitry. Each module can be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled together, which simplifies the manufacturing process compared to creating a fully integrated custom component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a microcontroller or control circuit as an intermediary that manages communication between various electronic components (RFID reader, Bluetooth module, USB interface) and the motorized actuator. This intermediary simplifies the control architecture by providing a centralized intelligence that coordinates all electronic functions, making the system easier to manufacture and program.
3Extent of automation
If motor and sensor systems are incorporated for automated operation, then automation level is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronically operated latch incorporates sensors such as position sensors and limit switches that provide feedback to the control system about the latch's state (locked or unlocked). This feedback enables automated operation by allowing the control circuit to monitor the mechanical state and confirm when the latch has reached its target position, ensuring reliable automated locking and unlocking without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized actuator is designed to automatically drive the latch mechanism between locked and unlocked positions based on electrical signals from the control circuit, without requiring manual operation. The system performs its own actuation function through the motor, eliminating the need for external mechanical force or manual manipulation to change the latch state.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication interfaces are added, then remote control versatility is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronically operated latch employs periodic or on-demand communication rather than continuous operation. The RFID reader activates only when a card or tag is presented, the Bluetooth module communicates only when data needs to be transmitted, and the USB interface operates only during charging or data transfer. This periodic action significantly reduces energy consumption compared to continuous operation of all communication interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Different communication interfaces are activated based on local conditions or user needs. For example, RFID is used for contactless card access, Bluetooth for mobile device communication, and USB for wired connections or charging. The system selectively activates only the necessary communication interface for the current operation, optimizing energy usage based on the specific local requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronically operated locking device and associated system of lockers is disclosed. The system of lockers may contain multiple locking devices, some of which may be connected to each other via hardwiring in daisy chain fashion. A module may distribute instructions to the locking devices, and the module may be connected to a controller, which may in turn be connected to the internet. A personal computing device such as a tablet may provide an interface for an end user to address the locking devices and may be connected wirelessly to the controller, and the controller may provide instructions to the module.