Mechatronic Locking Device Contact Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechatronic locking systems face challenges with data transmission rates when metallic elements, such as armor plates, are present, particularly at 13.56 MHz frequencies, leading to communication problems between the security key and lock cylinder.
Innovation Solution
A mechatronic locking device with a security key and lock cylinder that uses a contact-based communication channel integrated with a radio link, featuring a resonant circuit with a capacitor and inductor, allowing for a higher data transfer rate by creating a physical connection that is not affected by metallic environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an over-air radio link (13.56 MHz) is used for communication between key and cylinder, then wireless communication is enabled, but data transmission problems occur when metals such as armor plates are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces contact elements as an intermediary medium between the key and cylinder. These contact elements establish a physical connection that mediates the transmission of identification data, replacing the direct over-air radio link that fails in metallic environments. The contact elements act as a bridge that overcomes the blocking effect of armor plates while maintaining wireless communication capabilities for other functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic field-based radio communication (which fails through metals) with a contact-based electrical connection system. By substituting the wireless electromagnetic transmission with a physical contact path, the system overcomes the limitation of metallic interference and enables reliable data transmission in armored door environments.
2Reliability
If a contact-based communication channel is implemented, then data transmission is not affected by metallic components, but the device complexity increases due to integrated contact paths and radio link elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two communication pathways into a single integrated system: the contact-based path for reliable data transmission through metallic environments and the radio link path for wireless communication capabilities. By combining these functions into one unified communication architecture, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to maintaining separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact path is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides a reliable communication channel through metals, establishes electrical connection for power or signaling, and works in conjunction with the radio link elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving reliable transmission in metallic environments.
3Productivity
If a higher data transfer rate is required, then over-air radio communication is used, but communication problems occur at 13.56 MHz in the presence of armor plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication function into two distinct pathways: a contact-based segment for high-reliability data transmission through metallic environments, and a radio link segment for wireless communication. This segmentation allows each pathway to be optimized for its specific function, with the contact path handling the critical data transmission that requires high reliability in armored environments.
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 higher data transmission rates through a solid electrical connection, unaffected by metallic components, and allows for communication with additional devices via a radio interface, enhancing security and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The elements for the radio transmission path or the radio link are preferably a resonant circuit comprising capacitor and inductor, which are usually arranged in parallel with one another.
Implementation Method 2
With the security key inserted, the contact elements are electrically in contact with one another, wherein information signals can be transferred between key and lock via this contact.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a mechatronic locking device comprising: a locking cylinder having a control circuit and a security key associated with the locking cylinder having a memory circuit, wherein informational signals can be exchanged between the control circuit of the locking cylinder and the memory circuit of the security key via a communication channel, wherein the security key further comprises a contact element which is connected to the memory circuit of the security key via a contact section integrated on the security key, wherein the locking cylinder further comprises a contact element which is connected to the control circuit of the locking cylinder, wherein the contact elements are electrically in contact to each other when the security key is inserted and wherein said communication channel conducts between the control circuit and the memory circuit via the contact section integrated in the security key and the two contact elements.