Combination Lock Electronic Override Key Scrambling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanical combination locks for lockers and similar applications are labor-intensive and costly to rekey, require battery power, and lack versatility in design and programmability, with limited options for electronic key overrides and security features like scrambling dial combinations.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical combination lock with an electronic key override that does not require battery power, featuring a modular design for easy assembly and opposite-hand use, allowing for programmability and scrambling of dial combinations, and can be used on various standard designs, including those with a standard three-hole locker prep layout.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a mechanical combination lock with mechanical key override is used, then the lock can be opened and reset when combination is forgotten, but the rekeying process is labor-intensive and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to open and reset combinationVSAvoidRekeying process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key override system with an electronic key override system. The electronic key contains a unique code that, when inserted into the lock, electronically triggers the release mechanism and allows combination reset, eliminating the need for complex mechanical rekeying procedures while maintaining the ability to open and reset the combination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic key override system serves multiple functions: it can open the lock when the combination is forgotten, allow administrators to reset combinations, and provide a universal interface for different lock models. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized mechanical rekeying procedures for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If electronic locks with battery power are used, then programmability and electronic key override are achieved, but battery dependency and power requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveProgrammability and electronic key overrideVSAvoidBattery power requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The lock system incorporates energy harvesting mechanisms that automatically recharge the power source during normal operation. The dial mechanism and key insertion process generate electrical energy through electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric effects, allowing the lock to self-recharge and eliminating battery replacement needs while maintaining programmability and electronic key override capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Use of energy by stationary object

If mechanical combination locks are used, then no battery power is required, but security features like dial scrambling and programmability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveNo battery power requiredVSAvoidSecurity features and programmability

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates an electronic control system into the mechanical lock structure. The electronic components enable dial scrambling, programmable combinations, and electronic key override functionality, while the overall system remains mechanically operated without requiring external battery power, thus combining the advantages of both mechanical and electronic systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If standard key or combination locks are used for three-hole locker prep, then compatibility is achieved, but security and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCompatibility with standard layoutsVSAvoidSecurity level

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The lock is designed with a universal mounting system that fits standard three-hole locker preps while incorporating advanced security features. The electronic key override, dial scrambling, and programmable combination capabilities are integrated into a compact design that maintains compatibility with existing locker infrastructure, thus achieving both versatility and enhanced security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12044038B2Combination lock with override key

Publication Date: 2024.07.23 SECURITY PEOPLE INC

AI summary

A combination lock can be operated manually via the manipulation of rotatable dials and by way of a key, such as an electronic key. The lock includes one or more rotatable dials each having multiple indicia disposed thereon. Rotation of the rotatable dials to predetermined indicia places the lock in the unlocked position. The lock can further include an electronic port and an actuator. Upon receipt of a predetermined credential via the port, the actuator can place the lock in in the unlocked position. The lock further includes a knob that, when the lock is in the unlocked position, can be rotated between a first position in which the lock is in a latched position and a second position in which the lock is in an unlatched position. The combination lock may automatically scramble the positions of the dials upon opening for security purposes.