Rebound Locking Mechanism Shock Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic door locks are vulnerable to sudden shocks, which can instantaneously open the lock due to the limitations of solenoids and magnets, as they rely on spring-loaded mechanisms that may be overcome by severe impacts.
Innovation Solution
A motor-driven flywheel with an offset striker that bounces from a rebound plate to release a spring-loaded latch, using electrical energy to initiate the unlocking mechanism without direct attachment to the electrical device, relying on torsion and extension springs for stability and gravity-independent operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electromagnetic solenoids and magnets are used to release the latch, then the locking mechanism can be electrically actuated, but the lock becomes vulnerable to sudden shocks that can instantaneously open it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flywheel with an offset striker as an intermediary mechanism between the electrical motor and the latch. The motor rotates the flywheel, and the offset striker converts rotational motion into linear impacting motion that activates the latch. This intermediary mechanism isolates the latch from direct electrical actuation and provides mechanical buffering against shock impacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The flywheel acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and dissipates shock energy before it can reach the latch. The rotational inertia of the flywheel provides a buffer that prevents sudden shocks from directly actuating the latch, thereby protecting the locking mechanism from unauthorized opening due to impact.
2Strength
If spring-loaded mechanisms are used in electromagnetic locks, then the latch can be held securely, but severe impacts can overcome the spring force and open the lock
Solution Approach 1:
The offset striker on the flywheel serves as an intermediary that requires a specific rotational position to activate the latch. The spring-loaded mechanism remains engaged until the flywheel rotates to the precise position where the striker impacts the latch actuator. This intermediary mechanism prevents direct transmission of impact forces to the spring-loaded latch.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static spring-loaded holding mechanism to a dynamic system where the latch is released through rotational motion of the flywheel. The offset striker converts the rotational dynamics into controlled linear motion that temporarily overcomes the spring force only when properly positioned, rather than being continuously vulnerable to impact forces.
3Reliability
If a motor-driven flywheel with offset striker is used, then shock resistance is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flywheel serves multiple functions: it stores rotational energy from the motor, converts rotational motion to linear impacting motion through the offset striker, provides shock absorption through its rotational inertia, and acts as a timing mechanism to control latch activation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and justifies the added complexity through consolidated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the motor driver, energy storage device, motion converter, and control mechanism into a single integrated flywheel assembly. The offset striker is incorporated directly into the flywheel structure, eliminating the need for separate linkages and actuators. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity despite the sophisticated operational mechanism.
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 enhanced security and resistance to shocks, ensuring the lock remains secure even under severe impacts, with rapid yet controlled unlocking, compatible with various identification methods, and requiring minimal and sustainable power sources.
Implementation Method 1
A motor-driven flywheel with an offset striker that bounces from a rebound plate
Implementation Method 2
A motor momentary driving a flywheel with an offset striker which bounces from the top of a rebound plate to the bottom
Implementation Method 3
requiring minimal and sustainable power sources
Data Source
AI summary
A rebound locking mechanism (10) is taught that consists of a spring loaded shaft (28) having an activating flat (34) thereon, a spring loaded latch (78) interfacing with the shaft activating flat and a rebound plate (40) attached to the shaft. An inertia flywheel (56) having an offset protruding striker (58) is in alignment beneath said rebound plate, with an electric motor (60) rotating the flywheel. In operation when the motor rotates the flywheel in a counter clockwise direction, the striker hits a top surface of the rebound plate and bounces the flywheel clockwise until the striker hits beneath the rebound plate causing the shaft to rotate realigning the flat permitting the latch to rotate under spring urging and thereby repositioning the catch from a locked position into an unlocked position.