Lock Strike Plate Segmentation for Sensor Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking plates are expensive to convert and produce due to the requirement of replacing the panel with an additional locking sensor, which is not necessary for all configurations, and the breaking of the predetermined breaking point leads to irreparable inoperability of the latch function.

Innovation Solution

The support plate features a holder for attaching a sensor unit, allowing the panel to be easily replaced or removed without impairing the locking element's function, enabling versatile use and cost-effective production. The panel and support element are made in one piece, with a predetermined breaking point for easy separation, and a bracket for attaching a sensor unit that can be installed subsequently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the panel is replaced with a sensor unit, then the locking plate can be converted for use in monitored locks, but the production cost increases and the conversion becomes expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconvertibility to monitored locksVSAvoidproduction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The striking plate is divided into separate components: a support element and a panel connected via a predetermined breaking point. This segmentation allows the panel to be easily removed and replaced with a sensor unit, enabling cost-effective conversion to monitored locks without replacing the entire striking plate assembly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support element is designed with a holder that can accommodate different types of panels or sensor units. This universal design allows the same support structure to be used in both traditional locks (with panels) and monitored locks (with sensor units), reducing production costs and increasing adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the predetermined breaking point is broken to replace the panel, then the sensor unit can be installed, but the latch function becomes irreparably inoperative

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to install sensor unitVSAvoidlatch function operability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The striking plate is segmented into a support element and a panel connected by a predetermined breaking point. This design allows the panel to be separated without affecting the support element's integrity or the latch function, as the holder on the support element independently supports the locking element

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holder on the support element acts as an intermediary structure that independently supports the locking element. When the panel is broken away at the predetermined breaking point, the holder continues to provide support for the latch, ensuring the locking function remains operational while allowing sensor unit installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the panel is removed to install a sensor unit, then the locking plate can be used in monitored locks, but the protection of the lock from dirt is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuse in monitored locksVSAvoiddirt contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The panel is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that can be broken away at the predetermined breaking point. Once the panel is removed to install the sensor unit, the opening provides direct access to the lock components, trading the protective function for adaptability in monitored lock applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentEP3524757B1Striker for a lock

Publication Date: 2022.03.30 WINKHAUS

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AI summary

A strike plate (14) for a lock (5) has a cover plate (18) that can be broken out of a support plate (20, 120). In the closed position, the support plate (20, 120) and the cover plate (18) receive a locking element (13) of the lock (5). The cover plate (18) can be replaced by a sensor unit (23) for detecting the position of the locking element (13).