Hybrid Lock System with Simultaneous Mechanical and Electronic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical and electro-mechanical locks are vulnerable to both forced and covert attacks, with mechanical keys being easily compromised through traditional methods and 3D printing technology, while electro-mechanical locks face space limitations that compromise physical security.
Innovation Solution
A high security lock system incorporating multiple operational modes that integrates both mechanical and electronic security layers, allowing for mechanical-only, electronic-only, or simultaneous mechanical and electronic actuation, with the ability to block plug rotation even with a correctly bitted key without electronic credentials, enhancing key control and resistance to 3D printing threats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical locks with high security ratings are used, then resistance to physical attacks and covert manipulation is improved, but vulnerability to key copying and 3D printing replication remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical and electronic lock systems into a hybrid lock that requires both mechanical key insertion and electronic credential verification to operate, merging two different security approaches into a single integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The lock system performs multiple functions: mechanical key insertion, electronic credential verification, and coordinated actuation of both mechanical and electronic locking mechanisms, making it a multi-functional security device
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electro-mechanical locks are used to enhance security, then key control and resistance to copying is improved, but physical security is compromised due to space limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system segments the locking function into separate mechanical and electronic components that can be independently secured, with the mechanical portion providing physical security and the electronic portion providing key control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds an electronic dimension to traditional mechanical locks, creating a hybrid system that operates in both mechanical and electronic domains simultaneously
3Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical key systems are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but security vulnerability to picking, impressioning, and decoding increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic credential verification system acts as an intermediary between the mechanical key insertion and the actual locking mechanism, adding a verification layer that blocks unauthorized operation even if the mechanical key is compromised
Data Source
AI summary
A lock system may comprise a lock assembly including a locking element movable between locking and unlocking positions, and a first lock actuating assembly configured to be mechanically operated to actuate the locking element to move between the locking and unlocking positions, with mechanical operation of the first lock actuation assembly occurring through a physical object. The system may also comprise a second lock actuating assembly configured to be electrically operated to actuate the locking element to move between the retracted and extended positions, with electrical operation of the second lock actuating assembly occurring through reception of a wireless signal by the second lock actuating assembly. The lock and lock actuating assemblies may have at least one mode of operation characterized by the lock assembly being actuated only by substantially simultaneous operation of the first lock actuating assembly and operation of the second lock actuating assembly.