Integrated Tube Conductor for Electro-Mechanical Lock Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electro-mechanical locks face challenges in installation due to fragile ribbon cables and precise length requirements, leading to increased complexity, cost, and error rates during the cutting and installation process of thin-walled stainless steel tubes.
Innovation Solution
The integration of electrical conductors within a tube that extends between the inner and outer lock components, allowing for a one-piece construction that simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for separate wiring and providing orientation structures for proper connection alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate ribbon cable and tube components are used in conventional locks, then electrical wiring can be positioned between tubes for protection, but the installation process becomes complex and error-prone due to precise length requirements and fragile components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tube and electrical conductor into a single integrated component. The conductor is embedded within the tube structure, eliminating the need for separate ribbon cable and tube components. This integration simplifies the installation process by reducing the number of parts to handle and eliminating the complexity of positioning and protecting separate wiring between tubes.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tube-conductor component is designed as a modular unit that can be manufactured in standard lengths. This segmentation allows for easier handling and installation while maintaining the protective function of the tube and the electrical function of the conductor as a unified reliable component.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If thin-walled stainless steel tubes are used to protect ribbon cable, then the cable is protected from abrasion and RF emissions, but the tubes require precise cutting and special tools increasing installation time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the protective tube and electrical conductor into one integrated component, the patent eliminates the need for separate cutting and assembly operations. The integrated design allows for simpler manufacturing and installation, reducing the time and specialized tools required while maintaining the protective benefits against abrasion and RF emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tube-conductor component can be manufactured as a disposable or pre-configured unit that is installed as a complete assembly. This approach eliminates the need for expensive specialized cutting tools and grinding stones, reducing installation time and cost while maintaining adequate protection for the electrical conductor.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise length matching of tube components to door thickness is required, then proper fit is achieved, but the installation process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated tube-conductor component is designed with universal applicability through standardized length options that can accommodate various door thicknesses. This multi-functional design allows the same component type to serve different installation requirements, eliminating the need for precise custom-cutting and reducing installation errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The tube and conductor are integrated and pre-configured during manufacturing with appropriate lengths for different applications. This preliminary action of pre-configuring the component eliminates the need for field cutting and precise length matching during installation, making the installation process easier and less error-prone.
Data Source
AI summary
An electro-mechanical lock is provided for a door. The lock includes inner and outer lock components mounted on opposite sides of the door and a tube extending between the inner and outer lock components, the tube being configured to receive a spindle extending through the door. The tube includes an electrical conductor integrated with the tube as a one-piece construction for transmitting electrical power and/or control signals between first and second electrical connectors at the inner and outer lock components. The tube is less fragile than conventional double tube arrangements in locks and thus can be more easily cut to length and installed at the door, improving reliability and cost effectiveness of methods of installation.