Morticed Bolt Keep With Magnetic Actuator for Automatic Unlatching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing morticed bolt keeps require manual intervention to unlatch and are not suitable for narrow hollow tubular members commonly used in outdoor applications, due to size constraints and high forces required to push the latch bolt.
Innovation Solution
A morticed bolt keep with a magnetic actuator and latch bolt engager, featuring a longitudinally extending core with permanent magnets and a coil assembly, allowing for sliding motion to push the latch bolt without manual intervention, and an electromagnet with a magnetic catch to maintain the latch bolt engager in its actuated state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a conventional morticed bolt keep is used, then manual intervention is required to unlatch the closure wing, but automation is needed to eliminate manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation with an electromagnetic actuator system. The coil and armature assembly generates electromagnetic force to automatically push the latch bolt out of the cavity, eliminating the need for manual user intervention to unlatch the closure wing.
Solution Approach 2:
The bolt keep system performs self-latching through the spring-loaded latch bolt that automatically engages with the cavity when extended. The system also achieves self-unlatching through the electromagnetic actuator that automatically disengages the latch bolt without requiring external manual operation.
2Extent of automation
If a magnetic actuator with coil and armature is used, then automatic unlatching is achieved, but the size becomes too large for narrow hollow tubular members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the armature is positioned inside the coil assembly, and both components are integrated within the elongated body of the bolt keep. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall volume required for the magnetic actuator, enabling it to fit within narrow hollow tubular members while maintaining automatic unlatching functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the spatial arrangement by utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the elongated body to accommodate the coil and armature components. The linear arrangement of the magnetic actuator components along the length of the body allows for compact packaging that fits within the constrained cross-sectional dimensions of narrow tubular members.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a mechanical catch is used to hold the armature, then the armature position is maintained, but dirt and misalignment cause malfunctions in outdoor applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical catch system with an electromagnetic holding mechanism. The coil continues to maintain a magnetic field that holds the armature in its actuated position without requiring physical mechanical engagement. This eliminates moving parts such as catches and grooves that are susceptible to dirt accumulation and misalignment in outdoor environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic system provides continuous self-adjusting holding force through the magnetic field, automatically compensating for variations in position and environmental conditions without requiring mechanical adjustment or maintenance.
4Device complexity
If a fixed coil surrounding an iron core is used, then the actuator structure is simple, but the force required to push the latch bolt is insufficient for outdoor applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring-loaded latch bolt mechanism that dynamically adjusts the engagement force. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain firm engagement during normal operation, while the electromagnetic actuator delivers dynamic impact force during unlatching. This dynamic system achieves both structural simplicity and high force capability suitable for outdoor applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch bolt operates in periodic cycles of engagement and disengagement. During engagement, the spring continuously applies force to maintain security. During unlatching, the electromagnetic actuator delivers a periodic impulse force to eject the latch bolt, achieving high force output without requiring continuously complex actuator structures.
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 automatic unlatching of the closure wing, fits within narrow tubular members, and generates higher forces over a long throw, making it suitable for outdoor applications while avoiding mechanical catch malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
a coil assembly which extends in the longitudinal direction and comprises at least one coil
Implementation Method 2
a core which extends in the longitudinal direction and comprises at least one permanent magnet
Implementation Method 3
an electromagnet with a magnetic catch to maintain the latch bolt engager in its actuated state
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A morticed bolt keep to cooperate with a lock having a latch bolt which is slidable between a retracted position and an extended position. The morticed bolt keep comprises: an elongated body (5) to be positioned inside a hollow tubular member; a cavity to receive the latch bolt in its extended position; a latch bolt engager (25) which is displaceable between a rest state and an actuated state; a magnetic actuator (31, 32) to displace the latch bolt engager from its rest state to its actuated state upon activation; and an electromagnet (50) cooperating with a magnetic catch (55) fixed to the magnetic actuator, the electromagnet being configured to temporarily attract the magnetic catch to maintain the latch bolt engager in its actuated state.