Deadbolt Locking Device with Low-Torque Blocking Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric locks face issues with high power consumption due to the need for large torque to move deadbolts against frictional loads, and they are expensive due to the requirement of large motors, especially in multipoint locking systems.
Innovation Solution
A locking device that uses a deadbolt blocking member, which is less frictional than the deadbolt, is electrically actuated to lock the door, with the initial locking action initiated by mechanical means, reducing the need for high torque and power consumption by the electrically driven actuator unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deadbolt is directly moved by an electric actuator against high frictional loads, then the locking function is achieved, but the power consumption increases rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
A deadbolt blocking member is introduced as an intermediary component between the electric actuator and the deadbolt. The blocking member, which has lower frictional characteristics, is moved by the actuator to engage with and block the deadbolt in the locked position. This mediator approach allows the actuator to operate with minimal torque while still achieving reliable locking, as the blocking member transmits the locking function without requiring the actuator to overcome high frictional loads directly.
2Reliability
If a large motor is used to provide sufficient torque for moving the deadbolt, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deadbolt blocking member serves as a mediator that enables reliable locking without requiring a large motor. The blocking member is designed with low frictional characteristics and is moved by a small electric actuator. Once the blocking member engages with the deadbolt, it maintains the locked position reliably. This intermediary approach allows the use of a small, cost-effective actuator while still achieving the reliability of a traditional large motor system.
3Reliability
If the deadbolt blocking member is moved to block the deadbolt in the advanced position, then the locking function is secured, but the actuator requires precise control to prevent premature blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit is designed to activate the electric actuator only after detecting that the deadbolt has reached the advanced position. This preliminary action ensures that the blocking member is moved to the blocking position at the correct moment, preventing premature blocking. The control system waits for the deadbolt to advance first, then activates the actuator to move the blocking member, thereby simplifying the control logic while maintaining reliability.
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 solution reduces power consumption by minimizing the required output torque of the electrically driven actuator unit and allows for a low-power locking mechanism with a manual override function, ensuring reliable operation even in power failures.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically driven actuator unit which moves the deadbolt blocking member between the blocking position and the unblocking position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a locking device 1 having a deadbolt 104 within a casing 102, which deadbolt 104 is movable between an advanced position wherein it protrudes from a front face of the casing 102 and a retreated position, wherein it is retracted into the casing 102. The locking device 1 comprises: a link plate 130 which moves the deadbolt 104 to the advanced position; a deadbolt blocking member 110 which is moveable between a blocking position blocking the deadbolt 104 in the advanced position and an unblocking position to allow the deadbolt 104 to move to the retreated position; an electrically driven actuator unit 120 which moves the deadbolt blocking member 110 between the blocking position and the unblocking position; and a control circuit configured to control the electrically driven actuator unit 120 so that once the deadbolt 104 is moved to the advanced position, the deadbolt blocking member 110 is moved to the blocking position by actuation of the electrically driven actuator unit 120.