Resonant Interlock Signal Circuit for Precise Lock Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety devices with tumblers lack reliable and precise detection of the closed state, leading to potential operational hazards and inefficiencies in machine or system control.
Innovation Solution
A tumbler with a signal circuit connected to an oscillating circuit, utilizing a ferromagnetic bolt element and inductive components on the receptacle, which emits an enable signal only when the oscillating circuit is resonantly excited at a specific frequency, allowing for precise detection of the locked position and safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sensors are used to detect the closed state of a tumbler, then the device structure is simple, but the detection precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical contact sensors with an inductive sensor system consisting of a sensor coil and ferromagnetic elements. The sensor coil detects changes in inductance caused by the position of ferromagnetic elements on the bolt, enabling non-contact detection of the closed state. This substitution improves detection precision while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in electrical parameters (inductance, resonant frequency) of the sensor coil as the bolt moves between open and closed positions. The ferromagnetic elements on the bolt alter the inductance of the sensor coil, and the system detects these parameter changes to determine the closed state. This approach enables precise detection through electrical parameter monitoring rather than mechanical contact.
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are added to improve detection reliability, then the detection reliability improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor coil serves multiple functions: it acts as both the sensing element for detecting the closed state and as part of the actuation system through electromagnetic interaction with the ferromagnetic elements. The control unit integrates both sensing and control functions, eliminating the need for separate sensor components and reducing overall device complexity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic elements on the bolt act as intermediaries that transmit the mechanical position information to the sensor coil without requiring direct mechanical contact. These elements modulate the magnetic field of the sensor coil, enabling reliable detection of the closed state while maintaining a simple mechanical structure with fewer moving parts.
3Measurement precision
If contact-based sensors are used, then the device structure is simple, but interference from mechanical wear and contact issues reduces detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical contact between sensing elements by using inductive sensing through the sensor coil and ferromagnetic elements. The detection is performed through magnetic field interaction rather than physical contact, completely avoiding problems related to mechanical wear, contact resistance, and contamination that plague conventional contact-based sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary between the sensor coil and the bolt position, transmitting information without requiring physical contact. The ferromagnetic elements on the bolt modify the magnetic field in a predictable way that correlates with bolt position, enabling accurate detection while isolating the sensing system from mechanical wear and contact interference.
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 a highly accurate and interference-proof detection of the locked position, ensuring safe operation of machines or systems by transmitting a release signal when the bolt is correctly engaged, thereby preventing unauthorized access or operation.
Implementation Method 1
The signal circuit is designed in such a way that it emits an enable signal when the oscillating circuit is resonantly excited at an enable frequency
Implementation Method 2
The resonant frequency of the oscillating circuit changes depending on the position of the bolt element
Implementation Method 3
The bolt element has at least one ferromagnetic part
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device 20, a safety device with a locking device 20, and a method for operating the locking device 20. A bolt element 26 is movably positioned between a locking position and an opening position, being received in a receptacle 30 in the locking position. A signal circuit connected to a resonant circuit 40 outputs a release signal upon resonant excitation of the resonant circuit at a release frequency. The bolt element 26 has at least one ferromagnetic part, and the resonant circuit 40 has an inductive component 38 arranged on the receptacle 30. To enable reliable detection of the locking position, the bolt element with the ferromagnetic part is arranged relative to the inductive component 38 in the locking position such that the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit 40 corresponds to the release frequency.In the open position, however, the bolt element 26 with the ferromagnetic part is arranged relative to the inductive component 38 such that the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit 40 differs from the release frequency.