Secondary Door Lock With Remote Latch and Exterior Lock Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door security systems, particularly in public buildings, lack rapid deployment capabilities, remote activation, visual status indication, and integration with surveillance technologies, posing risks during high-stress events like active shooter incidents.
Innovation Solution
An emergency-deployable secondary door lock system with a servo-actuated latch, battery-powered operation, visible status lights, and integrated interior camera, allowing remote and manual locking/unlocking, and compatibility with existing security platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If manual deployment of secondary lock mechanisms is used, then the system can be activated without power infrastructure, but the deployment speed is slow and difficult under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical deployment with an electromechanical servo-actuated latch system. The servo motor receives electrical signals to automatically engage or disengage the latch, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of locking mechanisms under stress. This substitution enables rapid deployment while maintaining mechanical reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic deployment capability where the lock mechanism can engage itself upon receiving a remote signal or detecting a threat condition. The servo-actuated latch automatically positions the latch bar into the locked position without requiring human intervention, enabling the system to serve itself during critical moments.
2Productivity
If remote activation capability is added to secondary locks, then rapid deployment is enabled, but power and network infrastructure requirements increase vulnerability during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dual-power architecture that dynamically switches between power sources. During normal conditions, the system can use network-powered Ethernet infrastructure. During emergencies when infrastructure fails, it automatically transitions to battery power, maintaining operational capability across different power availability scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates backup battery power and offline operational capability as a pre-prepared contingency. Before infrastructure failure occurs, the system is designed with redundant power sources and the ability to function independently, cushioning against the vulnerability of infrastructure-dependent systems during emergencies.
3Loss of information
If exterior status indication is implemented, then situational awareness for law enforcement is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded LED indicators (red, yellow, green) to communicate lock status and system states. Different colors represent different conditions such as locked/unlocked states, power availability, and threat detection status. This visual encoding system conveys complex information states through simple, intuitive color changes that are easily observable from a distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The status indicator LEDs serve as an intermediary communication channel between the locking mechanism and external observers. Rather than requiring direct observation of mechanical components or complex electronic signals, the LEDs translate internal system states into visible external indicators, mediating the information transfer between the lock system and law enforcement personnel.
4Loss of information
If integration with surveillance technologies is added, then situational awareness is enhanced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the door lock mechanism with surveillance camera functionality into an integrated security node. The camera and lock share common power sources, control electronics, and communication interfaces. This merging eliminates the need for separate surveillance and locking systems, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing situational awareness through integrated video monitoring capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An emergency-deployable door lock system configured to reinforce a door against unauthorized entry during high-risk events. The system includes a locking mechanism mounted to either the door or the frame and a strike receiver mounted to the other, with a rotatable turning latch configured to engage the strike receiver when activated. The locking mechanism may be engaged manually via a thumb turn or remotely via a wireless signal received from a handheld remote control. A status light is coupled to the locking mechanism and configured to indicate lock state by emitting light patterns or colors. The system may optionally include an interior-facing camera and be powered by either a dedicated battery or a hardwired power source. The device may be optimally retrofitted for installation in schools, offices, and other facilities where rapid lockdown and visual lock-status confirmation are important to occupant safety.