Rotary Lock Cylinder Spring Actuation Energy Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electro-mechanical rotary locking cylinders face high energy consumption issues, leading to frequent battery replacement and potential jamming problems due to increased energy expenditure when using existing designs.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a trigger element that moves with the key, a movable slide with an inclined surface for low-friction locking element movement, and spring elements for efficient actuation and automatic return, reducing energy consumption and enhancing operational reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric motor with eccentric is used to move the locking element, then the locking element can be actuated, but the energy consumption becomes comparatively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static locking mechanism to a dynamic one where the locking element can move between locked and unlocked positions. The spring element provides dynamic force to move the locking element out of the rotor recesses, eliminating the need for continuous motor power during locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element serves as a self-powered mechanism that automatically moves the locking element when the rotor is turned. The system uses the rotational motion of the rotor itself to compress the spring, which then provides the force to eject the locking element without requiring additional motor energy.
2Reliability
If high energy is expended to move the locking element, then the locking element can be actuated, but battery replacement frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element creates a dynamic system where mechanical energy is stored and released cyclically. The spring is compressed during rotor rotation and then releases stored energy to move the locking element, creating an energy-efficient cycle that reduces battery consumption and replacement frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates through periodic cycles: the rotor turns to compress the spring, then the spring releases to move the locking element, and the cycle repeats. This periodic action allows the system to reuse mechanical energy from each rotation rather than requiring continuous electrical power.
3Reliability
If the locking element is moved with increased energy expenditure, then the locking element can be actuated, but jamming between cams and housing may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the cam-based mechanical system with a spring-based system. Instead of using cams that engage and disengage the locking element through complex mechanical motion, the spring provides a simpler, more reliable force that pushes the locking element out of the rotor recesses without the risk of jamming between cams and housing.
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
This solution significantly reduces energy consumption, extends battery life, and prevents jamming by allowing the locking element to be moved with minimal energy expenditure, ensuring functional reliability and extended battery life.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (43), which is arranged in the guide element (28) and on which the locking element (25) can rest in the locked position, thereby the locking element (25) can be moved into the unlocked position by compressing the spring element (43) in the direction of its longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
the movable part has a surface which is inclined to the direction of movement of the locking element and on which the locking element rests in the locked position. This inclined surface makes it possible to move the slide away from the locking element with very little friction.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~7d
AI summary
Disclosed is a rotary lock cylinder comprising a blocking element (25, 64) that engages into the rotor (10) in a closed position while releasing the rotor (10) in an open position. An actuator (17, 78) can be controlled in accordance with data located on the key (2). In order to displace the blocking element (25, 64) from the closed position into the open position, a latch element (33, 63) is provided which can be moved along with the key (2). The blocking element (25, 64) can be attached by means of the actuator (17). The energy required for moving the blocking element (25) is supplied by the user when introducing the key (2) into the key duct (11) such that the load on the power source used for actuating the actuator (17, 78) is minimal.