Optical Feedback Clutch Module for Electronic Lock Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic lock clutches suffer from unclear current engagement status of front and rear clutches, leading to unstable operation and frequent lock failures, and disassembly and assembly are troublesome.
Innovation Solution
A clutch module for electronic locks that uses motor rotation and transmission to move latch pushing pieces back and forth, driving optical coupling induction pieces and optical couplers to act together, transmitting information to engage latches into rear clutch components for stable locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clutch structures are used without optical feedback, then the structure is simple, but the engagement status is unclear leading to unstable operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical feedback through optical coupling induction pieces and optical couplers that provide real-time status information about clutch engagement. The optical coupling induction piece moves with the latch push piece, and when it aligns with the optical coupler, it transmits light signals to indicate the engagement status, enabling the control module to monitor and confirm proper clutch engagement, thereby resolving the uncertainty about engagement status and improving operation stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical status indication mechanisms with an optical detection system. Instead of relying on mechanical sensors or complex mechanical feedback linkages to detect clutch engagement status, the invention uses optical coupling between the optical coupling induction piece and optical coupler to non-contactly transmit engagement status information, reducing mechanical complexity while improving reliability.
2Reliability
If clutch modules require frequent disassembly for maintenance, then repair access is easy, but operational stability deteriorates and lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical feedback system enables self-diagnosis and self-confirmation of clutch engagement status. The control module can automatically detect whether the clutch is properly engaged through the optical coupling signal, allowing the system to identify issues and confirm proper operation without requiring external inspection or frequent disassembly for maintenance checks, thereby reducing maintenance frequency while improving stability.
3Loss of information
If optical coupling components are added to transmit engagement status, then real-time monitoring is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical coupling induction piece with the existing latch push piece structure, and integrates the optical coupler into the clutch housing. This merging approach allows the optical feedback components to be incorporated into existing structural elements rather than adding completely separate systems, thereby reducing the overall increase in device complexity while still achieving real-time engagement status monitoring.
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
Ensures stable operation by providing real-time status feedback, eliminating the need for excessive disassembly and repair, and enhancing the lifespan of the lock devices.
Implementation Method 1
on one side of the at least one latch push piece is installed at least one optical coupling induction piece, inside the outer clutch shell is installed at least one optical coupler cooperating with the at least one optical coupling induction piece
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of lock technology, specifically a clutch module for electronic locks. The present invention uses motor rotation and transmission to move latch pushing pieces back and forth to drive optical coupling induction pieces and optical couplers to act together, thereby transmitting information to engage latches into rear clutch components. The present invention ensures a stable power source, reasonable transmission, timely and precise judgment of latch status, thereby ensuring the stable operation of entire clutches and guaranteeing overall operation of locks, which eliminates the need for excessive disassembly and repair, and enhances lifespan of devices.