Recessed Pop-Out Lock Core for Vandalism Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical and electronic locking systems face issues such as key duplication and loss, vandalism, and difficulty in retrofitting electronic lock hardware into existing door locks, as well as challenges in providing secure and space-efficient solutions.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical lock core with a recessed operating member that requires a valid authentication signal to extend and operate, featuring a durable design resistant to drilling and vandalism, and a controller-actuator system that minimizes power consumption and allows for secure, space-efficient integration within door thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional mechanical key lock is used, then the lock can be easily operated, but the key can be easily copied and distributed to unauthorized users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical key system with an electromechanical lock core that uses electronic authentication signals to control the operating mechanism. The controller receives authentication signals and selectively enables the actuator to move the operating member, eliminating physical keys and their associated copying risks while maintaining ease of operation through electronic access methods.
2Ease of operation
If the lock is placed on the outside of the door, then the lock is accessible for operation, but the lock may be tampered with or subject to vandalism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent features an operating member that can be recessed into the lock core housing, creating a nested configuration where the vulnerable operating component is protected within the robust housing structure. When not in use, the operating member sits flush with or recessed into the housing, protecting it from vandalism while remaining accessible when needed for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating member is designed to be movable between a recessed protected position and an extended operational position. This dynamic positioning allows the lock to adapt between security states (recessed for protection) and operational states (extended for use), resolving the contradiction between accessibility and vulnerability to vandalism.
3Reliability
If electronic lock hardware is provided to replace mechanical keys, then security is improved, but it is difficult to retrofit into existing door locks
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical lock core is designed with a universal interface that can integrate with both conventional mechanical latch systems and electronic access control systems. The operating member connects to the existing latch mechanism while the controller interface accepts various authentication signals, allowing the same lock core to function in different configurations and be retrofitted into existing door lock assemblies.
4Ease of operation
If the operating member is extended for operation, then the lock can be operated, but the lock becomes more vulnerable to tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member transitions dynamically between a recessed secure position and an extended operational position. During normal operation, it extends to allow actuation; when not in use, it retracts into the protected position within the housing. This dynamic state change allows the system to balance operability with security, minimizing vulnerability to tampering when the lock is not being used.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lock core for a lock assembly is provided including a housing having a first end. An operating member is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. When the operating member is in the retracted position, the operating member is at least partially recessed within the housing. A control member is arranged within the housing and is configured to selectively limit movement of the operating member between the retracted position and the extended position. The control member is operably coupled to the controller via an actuator.