Electromechanical Lock Actuator Switching Verified by Magnetic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring the functioning of magnetically-operated actuators in electromechanical locks is challenging due to the difficulty in detecting malfunctions caused by small magnetic field forces and energy inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a magnetic sensor and a processor to measure and analyze the prevailing magnetic field, allowing detection of proper functioning and malfunctions by comparing against predefined magnetic field conditions, and providing feedback through an interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a magnetically-operated actuator is used to simplify mechanical structure and reduce energy consumption, then the mechanical structure is simplified and energy consumption is reduced, but monitoring of the actuator functions becomes harder
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic sensor is introduced as an intermediary component to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnetically-operated actuator. The sensor provides indirect measurement of the actuator's operational state by monitoring changes in the magnetic field, thereby enabling function monitoring without adding complex mechanical monitoring structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical monitoring mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical sensors or switches to monitor actuator position and state, the system uses magnetic sensors to detect the magnetic field characteristics, substituting mechanical detection with electromagnetic detection.
2Use of energy by moving object
If magnetic field forces are used to operate the actuator, then energy consumption is reduced, but detection of malfunctions caused by small magnetic field forces becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurement of the magnetic field under normal operating conditions to establish reference values. By comparing real-time magnetic field measurements against these pre-established references, the system can detect deviations indicating malfunctions before they become critical, enabling early warning without requiring high-energy diagnostic operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensor continuously monitors the magnetic field and provides feedback to the processor. This feedback loop enables real-time detection of changes in magnetic field strength or characteristics that indicate actuator malfunctions, allowing the system to respond to small deviations caused by low-energy operation.
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
Enhances the reliability of electromechanical locks by accurately detecting actuator switching states, preventing malfunctions, and indicating service needs, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor (120) is configured to measure a prevailing magnetic field (118) caused by the magnetically-operated actuator (108)
Data Source
AI summary
The method includes: switching (1202), in a magnetically-operated actuator, between a first mechanical state and a second mechanical state using either a first internal magnetization configuration or a second internal magnetization configuration; after the switching (1202), measuring (1204), by a magnetic sensor, a prevailing magnetic field caused by the magnetically-operated actuator, testing (1206) the prevailing magnetic field against a predetermined condition, and based on the testing (1206), detecting (1208) whether the switching between the first mechanical state and the second mechanical state was completed or not completed.