Multi-Point Lock Cam Mechanism Reduces Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locks, especially electromechanical ones, have complex mechanisms that require multiple turns for locking and unlocking, leading to high torque and reduced efficiency, with emergency actuation being costly and inefficient, and the latch is often moved only at the end of the rotary movement, causing high torque peaks during unlocking.
Innovation Solution
A multiple locking lock design with a connecting rod and two change levers allows the latch to be moved simultaneously with the bolt during unlocking, reducing the required turn to half a turn and minimizing torque, featuring a cantilever arm with a slotted guide and an articulated connection between levers for efficient force transmission, and an optional sliding element for latch actuation via a push rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a conventional multi-turn locking mechanism is used, then the bolt can be extended and retracted over a long distance, but the user must turn the key multiple times which increases operation time and torque requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism uses a cam-based dynamic system where the cam profile transforms a short rotational input into a longer linear output stroke. The cam's geometric profile allows the bolt to travel a sufficient locking distance while the key or actuator only needs to rotate through a small angle, eliminating the need for multiple turns.
2Reliability
If the latch is retracted only at the end of the rotation, then the locking mechanism is secure, but a particularly high torque is generated during unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism performs preliminary action by gradually moving the latch and bolt during the rotation process rather than holding them fixed until the end. The cam profile is designed to progressively retract the latch and extend the bolt throughout the rotation, distributing the force requirement and avoiding torque peaks that would occur with end-of-rotation-only actuation.
3Extent of automation
If a complex gearbox is incorporated into an electromechanical lock, then the locking mechanism can be actuated electrically, but the motor's efficiency is reduced due to passive movement of complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex gearbox mechanism from the electromechanical lock system, replacing it with a direct-actuation cam mechanism. The cam is directly driven by the motor or actuator, eliminating intermediate transmission stages that would require passive movement. This extraction maintains electrical actuation capability while significantly improving motor efficiency by removing energy-wasting mechanical transmissions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If emergency override mechanism is incorporated into electromechanical locks, then emergency operation is possible, but the complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables both normal electrical actuation and mechanical emergency override through the same basic structure. The cam profile and associated linkages are designed to accommodate both motor-driven operation and manual key operation without requiring separate mechanisms, thereby providing emergency capability while minimizing added complexity.
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
This design simplifies the lock mechanism, reduces wear, and enhances user-friendliness by minimizing torque and energy consumption, especially in electromechanical locks, where the electric motor's efficiency is improved due to fewer parts and reduced passive movement, while allowing effective emergency actuation.
Implementation Method 1
a cylinder cam (13) which can be brought into operative contact with a locking segment (2) by means of a projection (15)
Implementation Method 2
at least one bolt (16) having a control cam (17) in a known manner, wherein a pin (18) of the push rod (6) is guided in the control cam (17)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The multi-point lock has a push rod (6) that is arranged in housing (1). A pin (18) of the push rod is guided in a control cam (17). A bolt (16) is operated through pin by a nut (8). A blocking segment (2) is in an operative connection to the push rod. The change-over levers (19,20) are connected to a latch retraction lever (11). A lock cylinder is moved from locked position to the open position over the change-over levers. The movement of the bolt and a catch (12) is performed simultaneously in the unlocking operation.