Lock and Key System With Piezo Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lock/key systems lack efficient mechanisms for secure and reliable direct locking or coupling, often requiring complex components and precise alignment, which can be difficult to manipulate and maintain.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a piezoelectric actuator within the lock cylinder core, utilizing its bending motion to control the locking cam and coupling pin, allowing for direct locking or coupling with minimal components and easy operation, powered by a battery in the key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used, then secure locking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from a complex mechanical mechanism and implements it through a piezoelectric actuator that directly controls a locking pin. The piezoelectric element replaces traditional motors or solenoids, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining secure locking capability through direct coupling between the actuator and locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical locking mechanisms with a piezoelectric actuator system. The piezoelectric element converts electrical signals directly into mechanical displacement to control the locking pin, eliminating the need for complex gear trains, linkages, or multiple moving parts while achieving reliable locking and unlocking functions.
2Reliability
If precise alignment mechanisms are used, then reliable coupling is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a tolerance compensation mechanism that allows the coupling pin to engage with the coupling element even when alignment is not perfect. The coupling design includes features such as elongated slots or adjustable positioning that accommodate minor misalignments, enabling reliable coupling without requiring precise manual alignment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the piezoelectric actuator's ability to make fine adjustments in position to optimize coupling alignment. By dynamically adjusting the position of the coupling pin through controlled piezoelectric displacement, the system can compensate for manufacturing tolerances and ensure reliable coupling without requiring precise initial alignment by the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used for locking, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the piezoelectric actuator system. The same piezoelectric element that provides the locking function also controls the coupling mechanism, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function. This integration reduces the total component count while maintaining versatile locking and coupling capabilities through coordinated control of the shared actuator.
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
The piezoelectric actuator enables secure and reliable locking or coupling with reduced complexity, allowing the system to function effectively even if the key is turned slightly without full insertion and retraction, ensuring consistent operation.
Implementation Method 1
If an electrical voltage is now applied, the piezo element bends and performs work that acts like tensioning a spring
Implementation Method 2
Piezo actuators are also known as bending transducers. Since the bending or deflection is very small and depends on the overall length, a lever principle has already been used to achieve a greater deflection
Implementation Method 3
In addition, the spring-loaded housing pin 5 serves as a blocking element when the key is removed
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a lock-key system comprising a cylinder housing (10) with a cylinder core (4,16) rotatably mounted therein, which is rotatable by a key (1) inserted into a key channel in the cylinder core, and a coupling (6,9a) which transmits the rotation of the cylinder core to a locking bolt (8,15), characterized in that a piezo actuator (10,11) is arranged in the cylinder core (4,16) which prevents rotation of the locking bolt (8,15) in the inactive state.