Piezo-Actuated Slide Latch for Power-Off Drawer Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drawer locking mechanisms are often large, heavy, and require direct user operation, making them unsuitable for integration with control systems, and can be easily bypassed or require continuous power to function effectively.
Innovation Solution
A latching mechanism utilizing a piezo electric controller to selectively move a latch lever between locked and unlocked positions, allowing for secure drawer locking and unlocking with minimal power consumption, and enabling integration with control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical locks are used to lock a drawer, then the locking function is achieved, but the mechanism becomes large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with a piezoelectric actuator that uses electrical energy to control the latch lever. The piezoelectric controller converts electrical signals into mechanical displacement to move the latch lever between locked and unlocked positions, eliminating the need for heavy mechanical keys and complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating principle from mechanical force-based locking to piezoelectric field-based actuation. By utilizing the piezoelectric effect where electrical voltage produces mechanical strain in the actuator material, the system achieves the same locking function with significantly reduced weight and complexity.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical locking mechanisms are used, then direct user operation is enabled, but integration with control systems is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical key-operated locking system is replaced with an electro-mechanical piezoelectric actuator that can be controlled by electrical signals from various control systems including alarm systems, access control systems, or automated control systems, enabling seamless integration while maintaining operational functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electro-mechanical locking systems are used, then control system integration is enabled, but the system becomes complex and requires constant power
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric actuator operates on demand rather than requiring constant power. It receives electrical impulses only when locking or unlocking is needed, consuming minimal energy. The actuator maintains its position without continuous power supply, eliminating the need for constant energy consumption while maintaining control system integration capabilities.
4Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then security is provided, but they can be easily bypassed by application of force or picking
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical locking mechanism vulnerable to picking and force application is replaced with a piezoelectric-controlled latch system. The piezoelectric actuator provides precise control over the latch lever position, and the system can be integrated with alarm systems that detect unauthorized access attempts, providing enhanced security against force application and picking attempts.
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 mechanism provides secure locking with low power usage, remains locked without power, and can be easily integrated with control systems, enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a piezo electric controller. The controller has a plunger configured to selectively control the movement of the latch lever between the first and second positions
Data Source
AI summary
A latching mechanism is particularly suited for use in latching a slide mechanism, such as used to slidably mount a drawer. The latching mechanism includes a latch assembly comprising a latch lever mounted for movement between a first, second and third positions, a latch tab for selective engagement with a second end of the latch lever, and a piezo electric controller. The controller has a plunger configured to selectively control the movement of the latch lever between the first and second positions, the plunger movable between an extended position corresponding to a first, locked position of the latch lever and a retracted position corresponding to the second, unlocked position of the latch lever, the controller when unpowered preventing the plunger from moving from the extended to the retracted position and the controller when powered permitting the plunger to move from the extended to the retracted position.