Movable Push Button Lock with Visual State Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic lock systems lack a clear visual indication of their open or closed state and do not provide efficient mechanical release in case of solenoid breakdown, limiting user feedback and maintenance accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A programmable electronic closure system using transponder technology with a movable push button and tongue assembly forming a closed kinematic chain, where the push button and tongue position indicate the lock state, and a bistable solenoid with a mechanical release mechanism through interrelated windows allows for visual feedback and solenoid unblocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a programmable electronic closure with mobile button is used, then bidirectional communication between lock and key is enabled, but clear visual indication of lock state is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an LED indicator that changes color to provide visual feedback on lock state. The LED can display different colors (e.g., green for locked, red for unlocked) to clearly communicate the current status of the locking mechanism to the user, resolving the information loss issue while maintaining communication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the LED indicator provides real-time visual information about the lock state to the user. This feedback loop ensures that users are always aware of whether the lock is in locked or unlocked state, addressing the information loss problem without compromising the electronic communication functionality.
2Extent of automation
If a programmable electronic closure with mobile button is used, then electronic control of opening/closing is achieved, but mechanical release in case of solenoid breakdown is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the electronic control system (microcontroller, antenna) and the mechanical release system (solenoid, tongue, pusher). This segmentation allows the mechanical components to be independently accessible and serviceable, enabling easy repair and maintenance of the solenoid without affecting the electronic control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical linkage system that connects the electronic solenoid actuation to the physical tongue movement. This intermediary mechanism includes a pusher and tongue assembly that can be manually manipulated to override or release the solenoid in case of breakdown, providing a mechanical fallback while maintaining electronic control as the primary mode.
3Loss of information
If the pusher and tongue are assembled integrally forming a closed kinematic chain, then user awareness of lock state is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pusher and tongue into an integral assembly that forms a closed kinematic chain. This combination ensures that the position of the pusher directly and unambiguously indicates the lock state, providing clear visual feedback to the user. The merging of these components creates a simple yet effective mechanical linkage that conveys state information without requiring additional complex indicators or mechanisms.
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 system provides clear visual feedback on lock states through LED sequences and colors, ensuring user awareness of the lock's status and allows for mechanical solenoid release in case of breakdown, enhancing user interaction and maintenance accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
the lock consists of an electronic plate with a microcontroller, which controls the opening/closing and communicates with an antenna incorporated in a button block
Implementation Method 2
the microcontroller actuates a bistable solenoid which comprises an axis which, in the activated state, at one end is placed on the surface of the oblong pusher preventing its upward movement
Implementation Method 3
It also offers the advantage of offering the user the states of the lock by means of predetermined sequences of times and colors of an LED in logical correspondence with these states
Data Source
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AI summary
Programmable electronic locking system with a movable push button, of the type which include programmed electronic elements, allowing bidirectional communication between the lock and the key without contact between them. It consists of an electronic board (7), with a microcontroller (17), which controls its opening/closing and communicates with an antenna (8) incorporated into a button block, consisting of the movable push button (3), fixed to an oblong push button (5), which has a top surface (s), lateral grooves/slides (13) and a fixed button slide (4) carrying the antenna (8) and on which the movable push button (3) moves upwards and downwards, under the action of a spring (11) coaxial to the button slide (4) and the pins (14) of a tab block (6) sliding in these grooves (13), resulting in a translation within it. The microcontroller (17) actuates a bistable solenoid (9).