IoT Lock Module Segmentation for Smart Home Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing IoT-ready locksets typically require replacement of existing locksets and offer limited functionality beyond basic electronic locking and unlocking, necessitating enhancements for integration with smart home systems and improved user interaction.

Innovation Solution

An IoT module for locksets comprising a housing assembly, controller, wireless transceiver, sensor array, and LED array, allowing communication with external devices and controlling the lockset's operation based on sensor data and user input, enabling advanced features like occupancy detection, emergency alerts, and energy-efficient home automation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If IoT-ready locksets are purchased as complete integrated units, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIoT functionalityVSAvoidlockset structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lockset system is divided into separate functional modules: a traditional lockset and a standalone IoT module. The IoT module contains the wireless transceiver, sensor array, controller, and power source, allowing it to be installed independently on existing locksets without replacing the entire assembly. This segmentation enables IoT functionality to be added while preserving the original lockset structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The IoT module is designed as a universal add-on that can be mounted on various existing lockset types. The housing assembly incorporates mounting structures that interface with standard lockset configurations, and the controller provides multiple functions including occupancy detection, emergency alerts, and smart home integration, making the module adaptable to different应用场景.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing locksets are replaced with IoT-ready units, then smart home integration is improved, but installation complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmart home integrationVSAvoidinstallation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the IoT functionality into a distinct module that can be installed independently. The housing assembly includes mounting features that attach to existing locksets without requiring removal or modification of the original lockset components. This allows users to retain their existing lockset while adding smart home capabilities through a simpler installation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The IoT module acts as an intermediary between the existing lockset and the smart home system. It includes a wireless transceiver that communicates with external devices and a controller that processes sensor data, serving as a bridge that enables smart home integration without requiring direct modification of the original lockset or complex wiring changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If basic electronic lockset functions are provided, then device simplicity is maintained, but functionality is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelockset structureVSAvoidfunctionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The IoT module incorporates multiple functional components within a single compact unit: a wireless transceiver for communication, a sensor array for occupancy and environmental detection, a controller for processing and decision-making, and an LED array for visual feedback. This multi-functional design enables the module to provide occupancy monitoring, emergency alerts, smart home integration, and other advanced features while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure when added to existing locksets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20240263485A1Internet of things lock module
Publication Date: 2024.08.08 SCHLAGE LOCK CO LLC
  • US20240263485A1 patent drawing
  • US20240263485A1 patent drawing
  • US20240263485A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An exemplary Internet of Things (IoT) module for a lockset includes a housing assembly configured for mounting with the lockset, a controller, a wireless transceiver, and a sensor array, and may further include an LED array. The controller is in communication with an external device via the wireless transceiver, and is configured to transmit to the external device information received from the sensor array. The controller is further configured to control operation of the LED array based on information received from at least one of the sensor array or the external device.