Compact Electromechanical Lock Clutch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electromechanical locks require large electric motors and significant space for clutch mechanisms, including end-of-travel detectors, leading to increased volume and inefficiency due to high friction and resistance in displaceable elements.
Innovation Solution
A compact clutch mechanism with minimal friction, utilizing a displaceable carriage actuated by an electromagnetic motor, where clutch pins are guided by rods and an elastic 'U' element, allowing for low-power operation and eliminating the need for end-of-travel detectors by using motor current consumption as a detection method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clutch mechanisms are used in electromechanical locks, then reliable locking function is achieved, but the volume and space occupied by the motor and clutch system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the clutch mechanism elements (clutch pin, spring, elastic element) from a distributed three-dimensional arrangement to a compact two-dimensional layout within the rotor. All critical components are arranged in the same vertical plane, eliminating the need for long axial assemblies and reducing the overall volume occupied by the clutch mechanism while maintaining its locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism components are nested within the rotor structure. The clutch pin is housed within the rotor body, the spring is contained within a housing in the base of the carriage, and the elastic element is nested within the carriage assembly. This nesting approach allows the clutch mechanism to occupy minimal space while maintaining full functionality.
2Reliability
If conventional clutch mechanisms with multiple displaceable elements are used, then locking function is achieved, but friction and resistance increase requiring higher power motors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary displaceable elements from the clutch mechanism. By using a carriage that translates along fixed rods rather than relying on multiple sliding surfaces, the design removes sources of friction while retaining the essential locking function. The clutch pin directly engages the clutch disc without intermediate sliding components.
3Measurement precision
If end of travel detectors are added to conventional clutch mechanisms, then precise control is achieved, but the space required by the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor's own current consumption serves as the detection mechanism for end of travel conditions. The control system monitors motor current to determine when the carriage has reached its travel limits, eliminating the need for separate physical sensors. This self-service approach uses the existing motor characteristics for detection purposes, saving space while maintaining precision.
4Reliability
If clutch mechanism elements are arranged in extended three-dimensional space, then component functionality is maintained, but the volume occupied by the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates all clutch mechanism elements into a two-dimensional arrangement within the rotor's vertical plane. The clutch pin, spring, elastic element, and carriage are all positioned to operate within the same plane, transforming a three-dimensional distributed layout into a compact planar configuration that minimizes volume while preserving functionality.
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
Enables the use of small-dimension motors with low power consumption, reduces space occupancy, and ensures secure operation with minimal energy waste and no need for additional sensors, improving efficiency and reliability compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spindle which is axially actuated by an electromagnetic motor
Implementation Method 2
an elastic element, which of course has the shape of a "U" and has unequal arms
Implementation Method 3
a pair of clutch pins associated with separate springs which are arranged between the cover of the carriage and some housings axially provided in the rear end of the said clutch pins
Data Source
AI summary
It comprises a carriage (4) displaceable forwards and backwards by means of a spindle (3) actuated by a motor (2), the carriage (4) containing clutch pins (12) so that in the forward displacement the engagement takes place with a clutch disc (22) integral with which is an eccentric, whose rotation will cause the actuation of the lock in which the unit is fitted. In its displacements the carriage (4) is guided in rods (8) provided in the corresponding cover (5) of a rotor (1) in which the motor (2) and carriage (4) assembly is housed. The clutch pins (12) are connected to pushing springs (13) for pushing them towards the emergency position and therefore that of engagement when those pins (12) are facing the holes (23) of the disc (22).