Electronic Manhole Lock Extraction With Anchored Tool Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic locking systems are limited in their application range and face challenges when access to the lock is not readily guaranteed, particularly in environments where direct access is impossible due to deep housing or protective plugs, and are vulnerable to mechanical manipulation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of mechanical anchoring means on the electronic lock, allowing for a tool to be attached, and an intermediate piece that facilitates energy and signal transfer, enabling the lock to be extracted even under difficult conditions, with enhanced protection against mechanical attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the electronic lock is housed deep within a tubular body or protected by a protective plug, then protection against mechanical attacks and environmental factors is improved, but direct access to the lock for key operation and tool engagement becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The lock body is segmented with a separate access channel that allows the key and tool to reach the lock components without exposing the entire lock to mechanical attacks. The access channel is positioned such that it allows operational access while maintaining protective housing of the lock body.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate access mechanism is introduced that mediates between the protective housing and the lock components. This intermediate structure allows the key and tool to engage with the lock through a protected pathway, enabling operation without direct exposure to mechanical threats.
2Reliability
If the lock is made securely fixed within the tubular body, then reliability and protection are improved, but the ability to extract the lock for maintenance or replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The lock can be firmly fixed during normal operation but can be released and extracted when needed for maintenance or replacement, providing both security and serviceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock is designed to be recoverable after use. The fixation system allows the lock to be securely held in place during operation but enables its removal for maintenance, replacement, or recovery purposes without permanent installation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the lock is positioned deep within the tubular body, then protection against contamination and corrosion is improved, but access for operation and tool engagement becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
Access is provided through a different spatial dimension or pathway. Instead of exposing the lock to the external environment, an internal access channel or cavity is created that allows the key and tool to reach the lock components through a protected route, maintaining the lock's deep positioning while enabling operation.
4Ease of repair
If mechanical anchoring means are added to the lock, then the ability to extract the lock using a tool is improved, but vulnerability to mechanical manipulation and attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical anchoring means are positioned in specific localized areas of the lock body rather than being distributed throughout. This allows the anchoring features to provide extraction capability while minimizing their exposure to mechanical attacks on the main lock components.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool engagement features are designed to be activated or engaged only when needed for extraction. During normal operation, these anchoring means remain inactive or protected, reducing their vulnerability to mechanical manipulation while maintaining extractability when required.
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 the use of electronic locks in applications where direct access is restricted, providing reliable operation and protection against tampering, especially in manhole covers and similar scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
at least one exchange surface each on the side of the electronic lock and the electronic key which, in close proximity to each other, in particular when in contact with each other, enable energy transfer from the key to the lock
Implementation Method 2
at least one mechanical anchoring means is provided on the electronic lock, a tool is provided and an interaction of tool and anchoring means is provided, by which the lock can be fixed at least temporarily on the tool
Data Source
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AI summary
Described and illustrated is an electronic locking system comprising an electronic lock with a lock body, a locking bolt which can be moved from a locked position to an open position via an actuator located in the lock, an electronic key which is provided with a power source which serves to energize the lock in order to operate the actuator, and at least one exchange surface each on the side of the electronic lock and the electronic key which, in close proximity to each other, particularly when in contact with each other, enable energy transfer from the key to the lock, wherein at least one mechanical anchoring means on the electronic lock, a tool and an interaction of tool and anchoring means by which the lock can be fixed at least temporarily to the tool are provided.