Electronic Locking Core With Detachable Power Cartridge Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locks, particularly padlocks, face issues with lost keys, logistical challenges, power dependency, and environmental vulnerabilities, leading to access difficulties and security compromises.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled locking core with a separate power source, such as a battery cartridge, that is connected externally to the lock body, allowing activation only when needed, and powered by a unique data code transmitted from a remote device, with a motor-driven locking member for secure and efficient unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key-based mechanical lock is used, then security and simplicity are maintained, but key loss and logistical issues with tracking and retrieving keys occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-based locking system with an electronic locking mechanism that uses a motor-driven locking member controlled by an electronic circuit board. The lock requires a unique data code transmitted from a remote device to activate the motor, which then moves the locking member to unlock the latch. This substitution eliminates the need for physical keys and their associated management complexities while maintaining secure access control.
2Ease of operation
If an electronic lock with internal power source is used, then key management issues are resolved, but power depletion leaves the lock inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply system into two separate components: a power cartridge containing the battery and a locking core containing the motor and electronic circuit board. The power cartridge is detachable and can be independently replaced or recharged without affecting the locking core. This segmentation ensures that power depletion in the locking core does not permanently disable the lock, as the power cartridge can be swapped to restore functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a power cartridge as an intermediary component between the power source and the locking core. This intermediary design allows the locking core to operate independently of a permanently installed power source, enabling flexible power management. The power cartridge acts as a mediator that can be attached or removed to enable or disable power supply to the locking core, solving the problem of power depletion rendering the lock inaccessible.
3Ease of operation
If the locking core is always powered, then accessibility is ensured, but security is compromised when unattended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power supply control where the locking core is powered only when the power cartridge is attached and when unlocking is required. The electronic circuit board receives power from the power cartridge through electrical contacts, enabling the motor to operate only when needed. This dynamic power management ensures the lock remains secure when unattended while providing easy access when the power cartridge is connected and the unique data code is provided.
4Ease of manufacture
If exterior locks are exposed to environment, then ease of installation and access are maintained, but wind, rain and dust render the lock uncooperative or inoperative
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a weather-resistant casing that encloses the electronic circuit board and motor, protecting them from environmental factors such as wind, rain, and dust. The casing acts as a protective shell that maintains the integrity of the electronic components while allowing the lock to remain externally accessible. This protective enclosure ensures the lock continues to function reliably in outdoor environments despite exposure to harsh weather conditions.
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
Enables secure, power-efficient, and reliable access to locks without power supply issues, reducing logistical complexities and environmental vulnerabilities, while extending the life span of the locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a motor housed within the casing, the electronic circuit board configured to activate on receipt of data containing a unique data code from the remote device and configured to drive the motor upon receipt of the unique data code
Implementation Method 2
the separate power source comprises at least one battery contained within a housing of a power cartridge separate from and connectable to the locking core
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A system is provided for unlocking a lock comprising: an electronic locking core (1) for insertion in a lock body (18), and a separate power source (40). The locking core (1) comprises: a casing (12) housing an electronic circuit board (20), and a motor (26). The motor (26) is configured to move a locking member (28) located at one end of the casing (12) and externally thereof that transitions a latch of the lock between a locked and an unlocked configuration. A terminal (56) is located at the opposite end of the casing (12) to receive power from the separate power source (40). The power source (40) is housed within a cartridge (42) separate from and connectable to the locking core (1), the cartridge (42) including a co-operating terminal to connect the power source (40) to the electronic circuit board (20). The motor (26) is activated to move the locking member (28) to unlock the lock when the separate power source (40) is connected to the locking core (1) and the electronic circuit board (20) receives a unique data code from a remote source.