Electromechanical Lock Coupling System with Conical Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electromechanical clutch systems for locks are overly complex and not adaptable to different applications, particularly failing to efficiently serve both hybrid cylinders and lever cylinders, which require either electronic or mechanical actuation on one or both sides.

Innovation Solution

A clutch system featuring a separate coupling element that can be axially displaced between a blocking and release state, utilizing a conically widening engagement surface and a spiral spring connection to a motor spindle, allowing for a simple and modular design suitable for various lock types, including those with one-sided actuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional coupling systems are used, then locking function is achieved, but device complexity increases and adaptability to different applications decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different lock typesVSAvoiddesign complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling system is designed with a universal core that can be adapted to different lock types (hybrid cylinders and lever cylinders) through modular components. The core remains the same while allowing different actuation configurations (electronic one-sided, mechanical one-sided, or both sides), enabling one coupling system design to serve multiple application purposes without requiring complete redesign for each lock type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling system is divided into separable functional components: a universal core, coupling elements, connecting elements, and actuation mechanisms. This segmentation allows the same core to be configured for different applications by changing or reconfiguring the coupled components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability across different lock types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a separate coupling element with axial displacement is used, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility for different cylinder typesVSAvoidaxial displacement precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element is designed to be dynamically displaceable along the longitudinal axis of the core, transitioning between locked and unlocked positions. This axial movement is achieved through motor-driven mechanisms (spindle or nut) that provide controlled displacement, allowing the coupling element to adapt its position based on operational requirements while maintaining reliable engagement through the connecting element's positive connection features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If conical engagement surface is used, then ease of operation improves, but stress concentration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of axial displacementVSAvoidstress on connecting element

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement surface between the coupling element and connecting element is designed with a conical (curved) geometry rather than a flat surface. This conical shape facilitates easier axial displacement by providing a gradual transition surface that guides the connecting element during engagement and disengagement, reducing operational force requirements while distributing stress more evenly through the tapered contact area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 enables a versatile and efficient clutch system that can be used across different lock types, ensuring secure locking and unlocking mechanisms while maintaining a compact and adaptable structure.

Implementation Method 1

the coupling element is connected to a motor spindle of a motor via a spring element, preferably a coil spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

for the substantially axial displacement of the coupling element along the longitudinal axis of the core, the coupling element is connected to a motor nut arranged on a motor spindle of a motor via a spring element, preferably a coil spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

for the substantially axial displacement of the coupling element along the longitudinal axis of the core, it can be provided that the coupling element is connected to a motor spindle of a motor via a spring element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScrew: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP3665346B1Coupling system for an electromechanical lock

Publication Date: 2022.03.16 EVVA SICHERHEITSTECHNOLOGIE GMBH

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AI summary

The invention relates to a coupling system for an electromechanical lock, comprising a housing (2), a core (1) rotatably mounted in the housing (2), and a slidable connecting means for interlockingly connecting the core (1) to the housing (2), wherein a coupling element is provided, which can be slid substantially along a longitudinal axis (23) of the core (1) from a release state into a blocking state, wherein the connecting means interlockingly engages in the core (1) and the housing (2) in the blocking state, and the coupling element has on the outer periphery thereof an engagement surface (5), which expands conically with respect to the longitudinal axis (23), for sliding the connecting means into the housing (2).