Lock Indicator Assembly with Wireless Transmitter for Remote Status Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely operated locks for windows and doors are often expensive, aesthetically unpleasant, and difficult to fit, and users face anxiety due to uncertainty about the lock status, especially when remote from the location.
Innovation Solution
A lock indicator and mechanical lock assembly featuring a switch, wireless transmitter, and bolt member that provides a signal indicative of the bolt's position to a remote device, allowing users to confirm lock status remotely, with a replaceable cartridge housing the transmitter and power source for easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electromagnetically driven bolt mechanisms are used for remote lock operation, then remote locking capability is achieved, but cost increases and aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent parts: the original mechanical lock mechanism remains unchanged, and a separate indicator assembly with transmitter is added. This segmentation allows the mechanical lock to maintain its aesthetic appearance while the indicator assembly provides remote monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An indicator assembly acts as an intermediary between the mechanical lock and the user. Instead of replacing the lock with a complex electromagnetic system, the indicator assembly monitors the lock state and transmits this information remotely, providing automation without compromising the original lock's design.
2Loss of information
If users must physically check the lock status, then accurate lock state information is obtained, but user convenience deteriorates and anxiety increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator assembly provides continuous feedback about the lock state to the user through remote transmission. The switch detects whether the bolt is extended or retracted, and this information is transmitted to the user's device, eliminating the need for physical inspection and reducing user anxiety.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of physically checking the lock status is replaced with an electronic sensing and transmission system. The switch and transmitter automatically detect and communicate the lock state, substituting the need for manual verification with automated electronic monitoring.
3Device complexity
If the transmitter and power source are integrated in the main housing, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of repair and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter and power source are placed in a separate auxiliary housing rather than integrating them into the main lock housing. This segmentation allows the electronic components to be easily accessed and replaced without affecting the mechanical lock mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The power source and transmitter are extracted from the main housing and placed in a separate auxiliary housing. This extraction enables independent access to the electronic components for maintenance and replacement, improving ease of repair while keeping the overall system structure simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock indicator and a mechanical lock assembly, comprising: a switch; a transmitter coupled to a power source; and a bolt member moveable between a retracted position and an extended position with respect to the housing, wherein the switch is configured to engage the bolt member and is actuatable by the bolt member to determine the position of the bolt member, and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal indicative of the position of the bolt member to a remote device.