Indexed Sequential Lock with Shape Memory Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking mechanisms in hybrid computers are biased towards a locked or unlocked state, requiring continuous force or electricity to maintain the desired state, which can reduce battery life and increase wear on components.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism that uses a power source and a shape-memory material to actively lock or unlock an electronic device, with a third power level used to retain the engagement member in either state, reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are biased towards a locked or unlocked state requiring continuous force or electricity, then the locking mechanism can maintain a stable state, but battery life is reduced and wear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses periodic action by applying force or electricity only transiently to transition between locked and unlocked states, then allowing the mechanism to maintain its state without continuous energy input. The state machine controller periodically monitors and actuates the locking mechanism only when state changes are required, rather than maintaining continuous force or power.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism employs self-service through a state machine controller that autonomously manages the locking and unlocking states based on demand status signals. The controller determines when actuation is necessary and manages the transition states without requiring continuous external control or energy input, allowing the system to serve itself by maintaining stable states without continuous power.
2Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are biased towards a locked or unlocked state requiring continuous force or electricity, then the locking mechanism can maintain a stable state, but wear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses periodic action by applying force or electricity only transiently to transition between locked and unlocked states, then allowing the mechanism to maintain its state without continuous energy input. The state machine controller periodically monitors and actuates the locking mechanism only when state changes are required, rather than maintaining continuous force or power.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism employs self-service through a state machine controller that autonomously manages the locking and unlocking states based on demand status signals. The controller determines when actuation is necessary and manages the transition states without requiring continuous external control or energy input, allowing the system to serve itself by maintaining stable states without continuous power.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a locking mechanism uses multiple power levels for locking and unlocking operations, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism applies parameter changes by utilizing multiple discrete power levels (first power level for locking, second power level for unlocking, third lower power level for retention) rather than a single continuous power level. The state machine controller selectively applies different power parameters based on the operational phase, reducing overall energy consumption while managing complexity through structured control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism employs dynamics by transitioning between different operational states (locked, unlocked, retaining) with different power requirements. The state machine controller dynamically adjusts the power level applied to the locking mechanism based on the current state and required transitions, optimizing energy usage while maintaining clear state definitions and transition rules.
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 solution allows for efficient and low-power operation of the locking mechanism, extending battery life and reducing wear on components while maintaining secure locking and unlocking states.
Implementation Method 1
a shape-memory material configured to receive electrical power for locking and unlocking the lock mechanism. The shape memory material may be configured to change in shape in response to receiving electrical power to thereby lock or unlock the lock mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lock for actively locking an electronic device includes an engagement member that is movable by an actuator. The actuator moves the engagement member to the locked position with a first amount of power from the power source and from the locked position to an unlocked position with a second amount of power from the power source. The engagement member will passively remain in the unlocked position or the locked position.