Motorized Locking Mechanism for Bored Locks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking mechanisms for bored, cylindrical, or tubular locks are complex, unreliable, energy-intensive, and costly, with manufacturing and replacement processes being cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

An electrified lock assembly comprising a motorized locking mechanism, a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, and a capacitor unit, integrated through a guideway for linear sliding motion, which simplifies assembly and replacement by translating motor rotation into linear motion using an auger or worm gear and spring, providing a 'Fail-safe' or 'Fail-secure' function when powered off.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional solenoid or motor locking mechanisms are used in bored locks, then the locking function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional modules: a locking element with arms that can be independently positioned, a motor assembly separate from the locking element, and a guideway system that guides the locking element's movement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies manufacturing and assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the motor assembly as a separate unit that can be removed and replaced independently from the locking element. This allows the motor to be upgraded or replaced without affecting the locking mechanism itself, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then basic locking function is provided, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism uses periodic motor activation to achieve locking and unlocking. The motor rotates only when needed to move the locking element between locked and unlocked positions, rather than requiring continuous power. The spring-loaded arms provide holding force without energy consumption once positioned.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Reliability

If complex locking mechanisms are used, then locking function is achieved, but manufacturing and replacement processes become cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking element is pre-assembled with the guideway and spring mechanisms before installation into the lock body. This preliminary assembly ensures proper alignment and reduces the complexity of final installation, as the locking element comes pre-configured with all its moving parts and guidance systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If traditional electrified locking mechanisms are used, then locking function is achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The motor assembly is designed as a universal component that can be applied to different lock configurations and applications. The same basic motor unit with its integrated guideway and locking element can serve multiple purposes and be adapted to different lock bodies, reducing development and manufacturing costs through economies of scale.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 results in a more reliable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective locking mechanism that is simpler to manufacture and replace, with reduced energy usage and improved security features.

Implementation Method 1

translating motor rotation into linear motion using an auger or worm gear and spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWorm gear: Worm Drive

Implementation Method 2

translating motor rotation into linear motion using an auger or worm gear and spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10920455B2Locking mechanism for bored lock

Publication Date: 2021.02.16 SARGENT MANUFACTURING COMPANY

AI summary

A locking mechanism for a bored lock has a lock chassis, a locking element, a motor housing, a reversible electric motor, an auger, and a spiral lock spring disposed between the locking element and the motor. The motor may drive the auger in a first or second rotational direction to move the spring towards/away from the motor to reduce/increase spring force on the locking element, thereby moving the locking element to an unlocked/locked position. One of the locking element and motor housing has a projection while the other has a guideway for slideably receiving the projection. The guideway prevents rotation of the locking element with respect to the motor as it moves between locked and unlocked positions. The projection and guideway are interlocked to prevent disassembly of the locking element and motor housing.