Integrated Mechanical and Motorized Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical lock and key systems for enclosures lack keyless access options, making them less desirable for modern applications where electronic control is preferred.
Innovation Solution
An integrated mechanical and motorized lock mechanism is introduced, where a keypad or transmitter fob controls the motorized lock to provide keyless access, with the mechanical lock serving as a backup in case of electronic failure or code loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional mechanical lock and key system is used, then the locking mechanism is simple and reliable, but keyless access is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a mechanical lock system and a motorized lock system into a single integrated locking mechanism. The motorized lock includes a motor, drive shaft, and cam that work together to provide keyless access, while the mechanical lock with key provides backup capability. Both systems share common components like the toggle bracket and lock bar, reducing overall complexity despite adding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides keyless access through the motorized system, mechanical key access through the traditional lock, and backup capability through the mechanical system. The dual-slot toggle bracket design allows it to work with both cam types, making the system universally functional for different access methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only a mechanical lock system is used, then the device is simpler, but electronic control and keyless access are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical and motorized locking systems into one integrated mechanism that supports multiple access methods. The motorized lock provides electronic control capability while the mechanical lock maintains traditional key access, giving users versatile options without requiring separate locking systems.
3Ease of operation
If a motorized lock mechanism is added to the mechanical lock, then keyless access is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized lock mechanism is integrated with the existing mechanical lock system by sharing common components. The motor, drive shaft, and cam work together with the toggle bracket and lock bar that are also used by the mechanical system, enabling keyless access without completely duplicating the mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-slot toggle bracket design provides universality by accommodating both the mechanical cam and motorized cam. This allows a single component to serve multiple functions in both keyless and key-based locking operations, reducing the need for separate mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the mechanical lock is modified to accommodate motorized operation, then integration is achieved, but the original mechanical operation may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle bracket is designed with two slots that allow it to work with both mechanical and motorized cams. This universal design enables the same component to facilitate both key-based and keyless locking operations without requiring separate mechanisms, achieving dual operation capability while managing complexity.
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
Enables keyless access to enclosures while ensuring a reliable backup option, maintaining operational security and convenience by allowing both electronic and mechanical locking mechanisms to function independently.
Implementation Method 1
a spring connected to the toggle bracket and configured to bias the toggle bracket to the locked position
Implementation Method 2
a motor mounted to the mounting bracket and configured to rotate the cam
Implementation Method 3
a cam selectively positioned in the first slot and configured to drive the toggle bracket from the locked position to the unlocked position when rotated
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism is selectively operable both electronically and mechanically by way of an integrated mechanical lock and motorized lock mechanism. A motorized lock mechanism is incorporated with a mechanical lock to provide for keyless access, while the mechanical lock and key system remains as a back-up. A toggle assembly is selectively positioned either mechanically via a first cam, or electronically via a second cam, both selectively operable independently of each other, without interference from each other, to move the toggle assembly to its unlocked position. A spring biases the toggle assembly to its locked position when the first and second cams are in their locked positions.