Inductive Proximity Sensor for Locking Device State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices face challenges in ensuring a correctly locked state due to the complexity and maintenance difficulties of mechanical systems used for detecting this state, which are hard to integrate and maintain within the lock case.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an inductive proximity sensor on the striker support to detect the presence of a reference surface within the lock case, allowing for electronic confirmation of the locked state and alerting mechanisms such as lamp control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical systems are used to detect the locked state by direct contact with the strike plate, then the locked state can be detected, but the system becomes complex to manufacture and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical detection systems with an inductive proximity sensor that uses electromagnetic fields to detect the position of the lock housing relative to the strike support. This eliminates the need for complex mechanical contact systems while maintaining reliable detection of the locked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductive proximity sensor acts as an intermediary between the lock housing and the detection system. It detects the presence and position of the lock housing through electromagnetic induction without requiring direct mechanical contact, thereby simplifying the overall system while maintaining detection reliability.
2Reliability
If mechanical systems are used to detect the locked state, then detection is possible, but integration inside the lock housing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By substituting mechanical detection components with an electronic inductive proximity sensor, the system becomes easier to integrate into the lock housing. The sensor can be mounted on the strike support and detects the lock housing position through electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for complex mechanical integration.
3Reliability
If mechanical systems are used for detection, then the locked state can be detected, but maintenance becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
Replacing mechanical detection systems with an inductive proximity sensor eliminates wear and tear associated with mechanical contact. The sensor has no moving parts that require maintenance, significantly simplifying repair and maintenance operations while maintaining reliable detection of the locked state.
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
Simplifies the detection of the locked state, reduces maintenance complexity, and enables reliable confirmation of the locking status through a calibrated detection range, improving upon mechanical detectors by dissociating locking and detection functions.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive proximity sensor fixed to the strike support and suitable for detecting, within the operating range of the proximity sensor, the presence of a reference surface of the lock housing
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The locking device (6) is of the type comprising, on the one hand, a strike plate support (10) equipped with a strike plate (16), and, on the other hand, a lock housing (20) incorporating a bolt (21, 22) adapted to close onto the strike plate. The locking device further comprises an inductive proximity sensor (30) fixed to the strike plate support (10) and adapted to detect, within the operating range of the proximity sensor, the presence of a reference surface (25) of the lock housing (20), a correctly locked state of the locking device (6) being certified when the distance between the proximity sensor and the reference surface is within the operating range of the proximity sensor.