Rail-Mounted Locking System for Keyless Locker Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locker systems face issues with key loss and forgotten combination codes, and existing keyless electronic locks are often bulky, difficult to retrofit, and challenging to repair or replace without damaging the locker.
Innovation Solution
A locking system featuring a rail-mounted fastener system using shape memory alloy wire that can be easily installed, removed, and manually operated, with a user interface and indicium for status indication, allowing for keyless and combination-free access, and enabling easy customization and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic locks are installed to provide keyless access, then security and convenience are improved, but the lock size increases and valuable locker space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is extracted from the locker interior and relocated to the exterior rail system. The fastener assembly with electronic lock, actuator, and locking components is mounted on the rail outside the locker compartment, eliminating the need for bulky locking mechanisms inside the locker and preserving valuable storage space.
Solution Approach 2:
A rail system serves as an intermediary structure between the locker and the locking mechanism. The rail provides a platform for mounting the fastener assembly, allowing the electronic lock to function externally while maintaining a compact profile that does not consume locker interior space.
2Ease of operation
If electronic locks are integrated into the locker structure, then keyless access is achieved, but repair and replacement become difficult without damaging the locker
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into modular components: the rail, the fastener assembly, the electronic lock, and the actuator mechanism. This modular design allows individual components to be replaced independently without affecting the entire locker structure, making maintenance and repairs straightforward and non-destructive.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic lock and associated mechanisms are extracted from the permanent locker structure and mounted on a removable rail system. This allows the locking components to be easily detached and replaced by simply removing the rail assembly, without requiring damage to or disassembly of the locker itself.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing lockers are retrofitted with new keyless locks, then modern security features are added, but installation complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rail system is designed as a universal mounting platform that can be installed on various locker types and configurations. The rail accommodates different fastener assemblies and electronic lock configurations, providing a standardized interface that simplifies retrofitting existing lockers with keyless access technology regardless of the original locker design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rail acts as an intermediary adaptation layer between existing lockers and new electronic locking systems. It provides standardized mounting points and structural support without requiring modifications to the original locker structure, thereby simplifying the retrofit process and reducing installation 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
The system provides secure, space-efficient, and easily maintainable keyless access to lockers, allowing for manual operation in case of software or electronics failure, reducing the risk of damage to the locker and improving user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The fastener preferably includes material adapted to contract when activated, such as the radial type fastener disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,610,783. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other fastener forms may be equally suitable. The material adapted to contract when activated is preferably shape memory alloy wire.
Implementation Method 2
Activation of the material adapted to contract when activated is preferably achieved through electrical resistance heating, with a wire feed to the fastener assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a locking system 10 which has at least one compartment 12 with one or more walls 13, 14, 15 and 16 defining an opening 18. There is a closure 24 for the opening 18. A fastener 22 is adapted to hold the closure 24 in a closed position relative to the opening 18 and adapted to allow the closure 24 to assume an open position relative to the opening 18 upon receipt of a suitable signal. A rail 20 is located in relation to the compartment 12. The fastener 22 is located along the rail 20.