Magnetic Lock Position Sensing for Absolute Deadbolt Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deadbolt locks lack a reliable method to determine the precise position of the bolt without relying on volatile memory, especially during power interruptions, and manual operation can lead to inconsistent bolt positions that may damage the actuator or compromise security.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic encoder system is integrated into the door lock, using a diametrically polarized magnet and a magnetic sensor to determine the absolute position of the driveshaft, which is geared down to reduce multiple rotations to a single rotation, allowing accurate position detection without incremental tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If volatile memory is used to track bolt position, then position information can be stored, but the data is lost during power interruptions causing unreliable position determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic volatile memory-based position tracking with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet attached to the driveshaft interacts with a magnetic sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor) to provide continuous, non-volatile position information that persists through power interruptions, eliminating data loss issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic encoder system provides self-service by continuously generating position signals without requiring external power or active memory management. The magnetic field naturally persists and the sensor passively detects position, providing inherent backup against power loss without needing separate battery-backed memory systems.
2Ease of operation
If the driveshaft rotates multiple times to extend the bolt, then the bolt can be moved to the locked position, but it becomes difficult to determine the precise bolt position without incremental tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the mechanically rotating driveshaft and the electronic position detection system. The magnet attached to the driveshaft creates a magnetic field that the sensor can detect, providing precise angular position information that correlates to bolt position without requiring complex incremental encoders or memory tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as a detectable signal that changes position with the driveshaft rotation, similar to how color changes can indicate position. The magnetic sensor detects the orientation and position of the magnet, providing continuous feedback on driveshaft angle and thus bolt position throughout the multiple rotation cycle.
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 magnetic encoder provides precise bolt position detection even after power loss, ensuring accurate actuator control and enhanced security by preventing over-driving or under-driving, and reducing the need for calibration processes.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor to determine the position of the bolt based on the position and orientation of the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
According to some exemplary embodiments described herein, a door lock may include a driveshaft operatively couplable to a bolt configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position to selective secure an associated door. The door lock may also include a transmission coupled to the driveshaft, where the driveshaft includes at least one gear configured to rotate with the driveshaft. The door lock may also include a magnetic encoder coupled to the transmission and configured to measure a position of the at least one gear. The magnetic encoder may include a diametrically polarized magnet coupled to the at least one gear.