Redundant Lock Actuation Decoupling for Lower Wear and Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic locking devices with redundant manual operation capability fail to decouple the lock bar interface independently from both the manual key mechanism and electronic lock mechanism, leading to increased wear and tear and higher operational forces.
Innovation Solution
A redundant actuation lock apparatus that decouples the lock bar interface from the manual key lock mechanism in electronic lock actuation mode and vice versa, using a flexible biasing member and decoupling device to ensure independent operation of both mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lock bar interface remains coupled to both manual key mechanism and electronic lock mechanism simultaneously, then the system maintains redundancy capability, but wear and tear on components increases and operational force required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches the coupling state of the lock bar interface between manual key mechanism and electronic lock mechanism based on operational mode. A decoupling device responds to actuation signals to selectively disengage the electronic lock mechanism from the lock bar interface while maintaining manual key mechanism coupling, thereby eliminating unnecessary wear during electronic operation and reducing operational force requirements.
2Reliability
If the lock bar interface remains coupled to both manual key mechanism and electronic lock mechanism simultaneously, then the system maintains redundancy capability, but the power drive force or manual drive force needed to operate the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decoupling device dynamically alters the mechanical coupling configuration based on which actuation mode is active. When electronic lock actuation is engaged, the decoupling device disengages the electronic lock mechanism from the lock bar interface, eliminating parasitic mechanical resistance and reducing the force required for lock bar actuation. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures optimal force requirements regardless of operational mode.
3Reliability
If the interface continues interacting with components of electronic locking device when operating manual key mechanism, then redundant capability is maintained, but wear and tear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decoupling device dynamically switches the engagement state of the lock bar interface with electronic lock mechanism components based on operational mode. During manual key operation, the decoupling device disengages the electronic lock mechanism from the lock bar interface, preventing unnecessary wear on electronic lock components and extending their service life while maintaining the ability to switch to electronic mode if needed.
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
This design reduces wear and tear on components and lowers the operational force required, providing a seamless transition between electronic and manual lock actuation modes.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible biasing member and decoupling device to ensure independent operation of both mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A redundant actuation lock apparatus includes an interface, an electronic mechanism, and a manual mechanism. The interface manipulates lock bar(s) into a locked/unlocked position. The electronic mechanism includes an actuator and power drive. The actuator is disengageably coupled to and drives the interface. The power drive is coupled to and drives the actuator in response to a control signal. The manual mechanism includes a key input and an output. The key input receives and rotates with a mechanical key. The output disengageably couples to the interface and rotates with the mechanical key. The actuator is engaged with and the output is disengaged from the interface in an electronic mode, while the actuator is disengaged from and the output is engaged with the interface in a manual mode.