Retrofit Locker Lock Mount for Controlled Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing locker structures often require replacement to accommodate newer controlled access systems, leading to significant material, labor, and environmental costs due to the need for removal and disposal of old structures.

Innovation Solution

A universal retrofitting system that allows for the installation of newer controlled access technologies into pre-existing locker structures using a specialized wireway lock mount, enabling the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of older locker structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If newer controlled access systems are installed in pre-existing locker structures, then adaptability and modernization are improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with newer controlled access systemsVSAvoidcomplexity of retrofitting process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retrofitting system is divided into separate functional modules: a mounting plate that attaches to the locker structure, a controlled access mechanism that mounts to the plate, and a wireless communication interface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently selected and installed, simplifying the overall retrofitting process while maintaining compatibility with various locker types and access system requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If older locker structures are removed and replaced with new structures, then access system compatibility is improved, but material costs, labor costs, and environmental impact increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with controlled access systemsVSAvoiddisposal of older locker structures
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The invention enables recovery and continued use of existing locker structures by retrofitting them with controlled access mechanisms. Instead of discarding older lockers that lack modern access systems, the mounting plate and access mechanism are installed on the existing structure, allowing the locker to be reused with updated functionality. This eliminates the need to discard functional locker bodies and reduces waste sent to landfills.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Solution Approach 2:

A mounting plate serves as an intermediary component between the existing locker structure and the new controlled access mechanism. This intermediary element adapts the older structure to accommodate modern access systems without requiring replacement of the entire locker assembly. The mounting plate bridges the gap between legacy infrastructure and contemporary technology requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If newer controlled access systems are installed in pre-existing locker structures, then environmental sustainability is improved, but installation time and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental impact of disposalVSAvoidinstallation time and labor
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plate is designed with pre-drilled holes and attachment features that align with standard locker structures. The controlled access mechanism is pre-assembled with its mounting hardware, allowing for quick installation as a complete unit. This preliminary preparation of components significantly reduces on-site installation time and labor requirements compared to custom-fitting each component during installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12327452B2Universal retrofit of controlled locking access in a locker solution method and system
Publication Date: 2025.06.10 HOLLMAN
  • US12327452B2 patent drawing
  • US12327452B2 patent drawing
  • US12327452B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a system of retrofitting existing locker compartments with newer technology electronic locking devices that can provide controlled secure access to the compartments. The disclosed wireway lock mount supports the locking device and secures the lock wiring inside of the existing compartments. The locking devices are wired into the controlled secure access system for providing access to the compartments.