Programmable Cylinder Lock With Magnetic Reprogramming Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing programmable locks require specialized keys for programming changes, are complex to operate, and can be inadvertently deprogrammed, complicating user experience, especially in poor lighting conditions, and do not allow use of standard market keys.
Innovation Solution
A programmable lock with a magnetic reprogramming tool that allows intuitive programming by approaching the tool to the rotor, eliminating the need for specialized keys and simplifying the programming process, using a movable stop with magnetic material to control the programming insert.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized change key is used for programming changes, then the lock can be reprogrammed, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the change key function from the traditional key system by introducing a separate change bar mechanism. The change bar is a distinct component that can be inserted independently to initiate reprogramming, separating the reprogramming function from the normal key operation and eliminating the need for specialized change keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The change bar serves multiple functions: it acts as a programming tool, a key holder, and a control mechanism. By making the change bar multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reprogramming capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized change key is required, then programming changes are enabled, but ease of operation decreases and user experience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The change bar mechanism allows the lock to reprogram itself without requiring external specialized tools or keys. The user simply inserts the change bar, which automatically triggers the reprogramming sequence through the engagement of key followers with locking pins, making the process self-service and user-friendly.
Solution Approach 2:
The change bar is pre-configured with engagement elements that automatically engage with the key followers when inserted. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the reprogramming process starts automatically without requiring the user to perform complex manual operations or use specialized keys.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the key can be removed in change position, then reprogramming is possible, but the lock can be inadvertently deprogrammed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary anti-action by designing the change bar to automatically disengage the key followers from the locking pins before the key can be removed. The change bar's engagement elements prevent the key from being extracted in the change position, thereby preventing accidental deprogramming while still allowing intentional reprogramming through the change bar mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The change bar acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the key followers. Instead of directly manipulating the key or key followers, the user interacts with the change bar, which mediates the reprogramming process by controlling the engagement and disengagement of key followers with locking pins, thereby preventing accidental key removal.
4Ease of operation
If standard market keys are used, then ease of operation improves, but the lock cannot be programmed with them
Solution Approach 1:
The change bar is designed to work with standard market keys while providing reprogramming capability. The key followers can engage with standard key profiles, and the change bar's engagement elements are compatible with conventional key geometries, allowing standard keys to be used both for normal operation and for initiating reprogramming sequences.
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 simple and intuitive reprogramming in various lighting conditions, allowing use of standard keys and preventing accidental deprogramming, suitable for domestic applications without specialized personnel.
Implementation Method 1
the stop comprises a magnetic material and also the tool is magnetic and of such polarity as to bring the stop into the retracted position when approached to the rotor
Data Source
AI summary
A reprogrammable lock cylinder including a stator, a rotor rotatably mounted in the stator, a tumbler assembly mounted in the rotor and operable to permit rotation of the rotor when a first key is inserted into the rotor, the tumbler assembly having a reprogramming state in which the tumbler assembly is operable to be reprogrammed by a second key to match the second key, and an insert configured to cause the tumbler assembly to adopt the reprogramming state in response to presentation of a magnetic tool to the rotor, and to prevent the tumbler assembly from adopting the reprogramming position in absence of the magnetic tool.