Self-Powered Electromechanical Lock with Integrated Power Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electromechanical locks require external power sources, which complicates their installation and user experience, and self-powered solutions need refinement for more efficient power generation and user-friendly interfaces.

Innovation Solution

An electromechanical lock design that incorporates a power transmission mechanism, a generator to convert mechanical power into electric power, an electronic circuit for key authentication, and an actuator to open the lock, with a threshold device controlling mechanical tension to ensure sufficient power generation without external power sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a self-powered electromechanical lock is designed to eliminate external power sources, then ease of installation and user friendliness improve, but device complexity increases due to the need for integrated power generation and storage mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of installationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions (power generation, power storage, power consumption, and locking mechanism) into a single integrated system. The power generation device, power storage device, power consumption device, and locking device are merged into one compact electromechanical lock assembly, eliminating the need for external power sources and complex wiring while maintaining all necessary functionalities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromechanical lock is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: generating power from user input, storing the generated power, consuming the stored power to operate electronic components, and executing the locking/unlocking mechanism. This multi-functional design allows the lock to operate independently without external power infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If mechanical power is converted to electric power through a generator, then electric power is produced for electronic components, but loss of energy occurs during the conversion process

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectric power productionVSAvoidenergy loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a power storage device (such as a capacitor or battery) that stores energy in advance before it is needed. The generator charges the power storage device during periods when power is not immediately required, cushioning against the energy losses that would occur during rapid conversion. This pre-storation of energy allows the system to operate efficiently even though conversion losses are inevitable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the lock is designed to fit within existing mechanical lock form factors, then adaptability to existing installations improves, but volume constraints make it difficult to accommodate power generation and storage components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to existing installationsVSAvoidinternal volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where the power generation device and power storage device are positioned within the same housing space as the locking device. The electronic circuit is integrated into the existing mechanical structure, with components arranged concentrically or in layered configurations. This nesting allows multiple functional devices to coexist within the limited volume of a traditional lock body.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by arranging components in multiple dimensions within the lock housing. Rather than simply placing components side-by-side, the design employs vertical stacking, radial arrangements, and layered configurations to maximize the use of available internal volume while maintaining the external form factor of a conventional lock.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 the production of sufficient electric power within a compact space, allowing for seamless replacement of mechanical locks with electromechanical ones without altering the existing lock case, and provides a user experience similar to traditional mechanical locks.

Implementation Method 1

a generator to produce electric power from the mechanical power

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8866439B2Electromechanical lock and its operation method using mechanical power from normal operation for setting electromechanical lock in a mechanically openable state

Publication Date: 2014.10.21 ILOQ OY

AI summary

Electromechanical lock and its operation method are provided. The lock includes a threshold device configured to control the power transmission mechanism so that the amount of the received mechanical power in the form of the electric power is sufficient for powering the electronic circuit and the actuator, and so that a normal operation of the electromechanical lock, including an insertion of the key into the electromechanical lock, is sufficient for power the electronic circuit and the actuator.