Motor-Actuated Lock Assembly for Powered Pull Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current latch systems for movable closure elements lack a practical way to incorporate powered locking through a pull handle actuator assembly, relying on manual key-based locking which is inadequate in various situations.
Innovation Solution
A latch system with a motor-actuated lock assembly that changes between locked and unlocked states, allowing the pull handle to be selectively locked and unlocked, and includes a manual actuator subassembly for additional control, ensuring secure and convenient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual key-based locking is used in latch systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the system lacks adaptability to different conditions (impact, obstruction, malfunction) and requires continuous human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system incorporates sensors that automatically detect conditions (impact, obstruction, malfunction) and trigger the motor to lock or unlock the pull handle without human intervention. The system serves itself by monitoring its own state and responding autonomously to environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical key-based locking system with an electromechanical system that uses a motor, control circuit, and sensors. This substitution enables automated locking/unlocking based on detected conditions, transforming the system from manual operation to condition-responsive automation.
2Extent of automation
If a motor is added to enable powered locking, then the system can automatically respond to conditions, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motor assembly serves multiple functions: it locks the pull handle in the locked position, unlocks it when needed, and can be controlled through different input methods (manual switch, automatic sensor detection). This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating multiple operations into a single actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system transitions from a static mechanical lock to a dynamic electromechanical system that can change state (locked/unlocked) in response to environmental conditions. The motor provides dynamic control, allowing the system to adapt its locking state based on real-time sensor input rather than remaining in a fixed state.
3Ease of operation
If the pull handle can be freely repositioned, then ease of operation is improved, but security is reduced due to potential unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly provides localized restriction at the critical point (pull handle) while leaving the rest of the door mechanism unchanged. The locking feature selectively constrains handle movement only when the locked state is active, maintaining ease of operation when unlocked while providing security when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The system preemptively locks the pull handle before unauthorized access can occur by detecting conditions such as impact or malfunction. The motor engages the locking mechanism in advance to prevent potential security breaches, rather than responding after unauthorized access attempts.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for releasably maintaining a movable closure element in a predetermined position relative to a support therefor. The latch assembly is changed from a latched state into an unlatched state as an incident of the first actuator assembly being changed from a normal state into a release state. The first actuator assembly has a first handle that is repositionable relative to a base assembly between first and second positions. The first actuator assembly is in the normal state with the first handle in the first position and the release state with the first handle in the second position. The lock assembly cooperates with the first actuating assembly and in a locked state prevents the first handle from being changed from the first position into the second position. The lock assembly has a motor that is actuatable to change the lock assembly between the locked and unlocked states.