NFC-Driven Disc Lock With Integrated Antenna Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing disc locks lack the capability to be locked and unlocked via near field communication (NFC).

Innovation Solution

A disc lock mechanism powered by NFC, comprising a lock ring, top and bottom housings forming a lock chamber with an integrated antenna system that receives NFC signals to activate a motor, which moves the lock mechanism between locked and unlocked positions, using a lock ball cam and lever system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional disc lock mechanism is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it lacks the capability to be locked and unlocked via near field communication (NFC)

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveNFC capabilityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna system is integrated within the lock chamber housing, with the antenna chamber located inside spaces defined by the lock ring or protruding from the housing. This nesting approach allows NFC functionality to be incorporated without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides traditional mechanical locking through the lock ball cam and lever system, while also enabling remote locking and unlocking via NFC communication through the integrated antenna system, making the device adaptable to both contactless and traditional operating modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If an antenna system is integrated into the lock chamber, then NFC functionality is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveNFC functionalityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna system is positioned within the lock chamber housing structure, utilizing existing spaces either defined by the lock ring or protruding tangentially from the annular taurus shape. This integration minimizes additional structural requirements and keeps the antenna system compact within the existing device envelope.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna system is merged with the lock chamber housing, combining the NFC communication function with the existing mechanical structure. The antenna chamber is formed as part of the housing rather than as a separate external component, reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Area of stationary object

If the antenna chamber is located inside the spaces defined by the lock ring or protruding from the housing, then space utilization is optimized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidhousing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna chamber is positioned asymmetrically within the annular taurus shaped lock chamber, utilizing spaces that protrude tangentially from the lock ring or extend from the top or bottom of the housing. This asymmetric placement optimizes space utilization while accommodating the antenna system within the existing housing geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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

Enables secure and convenient locking and unlocking via NFC, providing resistance to cutting and maintaining functionality in high temperatures, enhancing security and usability.

Implementation Method 1

Near Field Communication (NFC) driven disc lock... antenna system which is in communication with the lock mechanism... activated by the antenna system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear Field Communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12428871B2NFC driven disc lock
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 KAPP ROBERT
  • US12428871B2 patent drawing
  • US12428871B2 patent drawing
  • US12428871B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein is a Near Field Communication disc lock. The disc lock has a near field communication antenna which receives the near field signal to lock or unlock the disc lock. The antenna passes the signal via wires to a near field circuit board which controls the lock motor which turns a lock cam to pressure or release a lock ball. The lock ball triggers the lock ball lever to lock or unlock the lock ring. In this manner, there is now an NFC lock which cannot be cut with bolt cutters.