LED Ring Indicator for Mechatronic Locks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical and mechatronic closure systems lack an integrated indicator solution suitable for sheet-metal cabinets or boxes, which are effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovation Solution
An LED ring surrounding the housing's flange, using a flexible foil to carry light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and an electronics module with a printed circuit board, optionally with a heat sink, integrated sensor capabilities, and various sensor types for door detection, integrated into the closure system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an LED indicator system is added to the closure system, then the functionality and user experience are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the LED indicator system with the closure system by integrating the electronics module directly into the housing structure. The LED ring is mounted on the housing flange, and the electronics module is screwed to the tray, creating a unified integrated closure system that enhances functionality without requiring separate indicator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronics module serves multiple functions: it controls the LED indicators, houses the power supply electronics, and integrates sensor capabilities for door detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and manages system complexity through consolidation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensor types are integrated into the electronics module, then the adaptability and detection capabilities are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronics module is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple sensor types including door sensors, closing sensors, and various detection technologies. This multi-functional design allows the same base module to serve different detection needs without requiring completely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is segmented into modular components that can be independently selected and integrated. Different sensor types (door sensor, closing sensor, proximity sensors) can be added or removed based on specific application requirements, allowing adaptability while managing complexity through modularity.
3Illumination intensity
If an LED ring with flexible foil and multiple LEDs is implemented, then the aesthetic appeal and illumination quality are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible foil to carry and arrange multiple LEDs in a ring configuration. This flexible film approach allows for aesthetically pleasing illumination patterns while simplifying the manufacturing process compared to rigid LED array structures, as the flexible foil can be more easily formed and installed.
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
Provides an integrated, flexible, and aesthetically appealing LED indicator system for closure systems, enhancing functionality and user experience with customizable sensor options and power supply flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible foil which is arranged between light ring and thin wall and which carries light emitting diodes (LEDs) and relays the light thereof
Implementation Method 2
the electronics module has in integrated heat sink
Data Source
AI summary
An LED ring or light guide for a mechanical or mechatronic closure system that includes an actuating means, such as socket wrench receptacle or swivel handle, which is rotatably supported in a housing or tray. The LED ring or light guide also includes a retaining nut or bearing piece that can be screwed on with the housing or with the tray with the intermediary of a thin wall such as door panel of a sheet-metal cabinet or sheet-metal housing. A light ring surrounds a flange of the housing or of the tray, and a flexible foil is arranged between light ring and thin wall. The flexible foil carries light emitting diodes (LEDs) and relays the light thereof. A closure indicator integrated in the actuating means is achieved in this way.