Flexible Coupling Absorbs Torsional Loads in Electronic Deadbolt Drive Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motorized deadbolts face challenges in installation and reliability due to increased loading at the end of the stroke length, leading to wear and reduced lifespan of drive system components.
Innovation Solution
An electronic deadbolt system with a drive system that includes an electric motor, a leadscrew, and a flexible coupling to absorb torsional loads, comprising a drive hub, a driven hub, and a flexible collar to reduce stress on the motor and gear set, allowing for efficient extension and retraction of the deadbolt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized drive system is installed in a deadbolt, then the deadbolt can be operated automatically, but the drive system experiences increased loading at the end of the stroke length causing wear and reduced lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spring-loaded plunger that acts as a cushioning element between the deadbolt and the strike plate. This plunger compresses before the deadbolt reaches the hard stop, absorbing the impact energy and preventing excessive loading on the motor and leadscrew at the end of the stroke, thereby extending drive system lifespan while maintaining automatic operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a flexible coupling element between the leadscrew and the deadbolt. This intermediary component absorbs torsional loads and mechanical shocks during operation, protecting the motor and leadscrew from damage while enabling automatic deadbolt operation
2Ease of operation
If a motorized drive system is installed in a deadbolt, then remote operation is enabled, but installation becomes difficult and power delivery reliability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the deadbolt system into modular components: a motorized drive assembly, a separate locking mechanism, and a flexible coupling section. This segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance while maintaining remote operation capability through the modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible coupling that can accommodate variations in installation parameters and tolerances. This flexibility simplifies the installation process by reducing the precision requirements for aligning motor, leadscrew, and deadbolt components, while still enabling reliable remote operation
3Device complexity
If a rigid coupling is used between the motor and leadscrew, then the drive system is structurally simple, but torsional loads cause increased wear and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible coupling element with a hollow cylindrical structure containing elastic elements. This flexible design absorbs torsional loads and shock forces while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, preventing excessive wear on motor and leadscrew components
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 flexible coupling absorbs torsional loads, increasing the lifespan of the drive system by reducing wear on the motor and gear set, and preventing damage from hard stops, thus enhancing the reliability and durability of the deadbolt operation.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible collar disposed at least partially between the at least one drive lug and the at least one driven lug
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic deadbolt includes a housing, a deadbolt configured to extend or retract from the housing, and a drive system disposed at least partially within the housing. The drive system includes an electric motor and a leadscrew coupled between the electric motor and the deadbolt. The leadscrew is rotatable about a longitudinal axis so as to dive movement of the deadbolt. The drive system also includes a flexible coupling disposed between the electric motor and the leadscrew and is configured to absorb torsional loads generated by the movement of the deadbolt.