Motorized Lock Trim Assembly Escapement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door latching assemblies face challenges in accommodating various lock types and functions, are vulnerable to torque attacks, and require complex designs to ensure compatibility and security, with most trim assemblies being specific to certain lock types and dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A motorized lock trim assembly with an escapement assembly and coupling mechanism that uses an electric motor, escapement spring, and handle-to-spindle coupling to adapt to different doors and thwart torque attacks, allowing for a universal fit with minimal part substitution and energy storage for secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stop mechanism is used to prevent lever and spindle rotation, then the lock can engage the spindle directly to the door handle, but the stop mechanism can be defeated by applying a crowbar or long wrench, shearing off components
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into separate components: a handle coupler that receives the door handle, a spindle driver that engages the spindle, and a stopper that blocks rotation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall security against torque attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary coupling assembly between the door handle and the spindle. This intermediary mechanism includes a stopper that prevents direct torque transmission from the handle to the spindle, thereby thwarting crowbar attacks while still allowing legitimate door operation.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism requires the door handle to be in a neutral position to lock, then a return spring and escapement spring are needed, but this adds complexity to the trim assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring and escapement spring functions are integrated into a unified escapement assembly. The escapement assembly combines the neutral position biasing function (return spring) with the lock engagement function (escapement spring) into a single coordinated mechanism, reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The escapement assembly serves multiple functions: it biases the handle to the neutral position, engages the lock when the handle returns to neutral, and coordinates with the motorized lock mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
3Reliability
If trim assemblies are designed for specific lock types, then they can be optimized for that lock, but they cannot accommodate a wide variety of lock types and functions
Solution Approach 1:
The trim assembly is designed with universal compatibility features, including adjustable mounting posts and a standardized coupling assembly interface that can accommodate various spindle types and lock mechanisms. This allows a single trim assembly design to work with multiple lock types and door functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting posts and coupling assembly are designed to be adjustable and adaptable to different configurations. This dynamic design allows the same trim assembly to be customized for different door types, handedness, and lock specifications without requiring complete redesign.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the trim mounting posts are rearranged to accommodate different door preparations, then compatibility with various doors is improved, but other trim assembly components must also be rearranged
Solution Approach 1:
The trim assembly is segmented into modular components: mounting posts, escutcheon, back plate assembly, and coupling assembly. This segmentation allows individual components to be adjusted or rearranged independently to accommodate different door preparations without requiring complete disassembly and reconfiguration of the entire assembly.
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 solution provides a secure, adaptable, and versatile door latching system that effectively prevents torque attacks and accommodates various door types and lock functions, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation while enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
operation of the motor to drive the blocked escapement assembly into the locking position causes the escapement assembly to store energy in the escapement spring for forcing the escapement assembly into the locking position once the coupling assembly is reoriented back to the default orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A lock trim assembly incorporates an escapement assembly comprising a control member and an escapement spring. The escapement assembly is movable between a locking position that blocks rotation of the spindle and an unlocking position that does not block rotation of the spindle. A coupling assembly that couples the handle to the spindle rotates between a default orientation and a blocking orientation. The default orientation allows the escapement assembly to move into the locking position. The blocking orientation blocks the escapement assembly from moving into the locking position. When the coupling assembly is in the blocking orientation, operation of the motor to drive the blocked escapement assembly into the locking position causes the escapement assembly to store energy in the escapement spring for forcing the escapement assembly into the locking position once the coupling assembly is reoriented back to the default orientation.