Servomotor Actuator with Winding Reel for Remote Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional locking systems are easily detectable and accessible, making them vulnerable to break-ins, and often require multiple devices for various functions, which can be aesthetically and practically inconvenient, especially in situations where space is limited or emergency disconnection is needed.

Innovation Solution

A device combining multiple functions into one unit, featuring a servomotor and actuator system with electronically controlled reels and sensors, allowing for remote operation and integration with various objects, including those hard to reach, with options for manual override and adaptable actuator stiffness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If locking devices are fitted directly to the object at the opening point, then the locking function is effective, but the device becomes easily detectable and accessible for breaking-in

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking effectivenessVSAvoiddetectability and accessibility for breaking-in
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device separates the motor unit from the actuator, allowing the motor to be positioned remotely while the actuator operates at the locking point. This segmentation enables the locking mechanism to remain effective while the control unit can be concealed or positioned away from vulnerable areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary actuator mechanism that transmits force from the motor to the locking bolt. This intermediary allows the motor to be positioned away from the direct locking point while still providing effective locking through the actuator's force transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple separate devices are used for security, control, and anti-breaking-in functions, then each function can be optimized, but the system becomes complex and requires multiple installations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional performanceVSAvoidnumber of devices and installation points
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the motor unit, actuator, sensors, and control electronics into a single integrated device. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate security and control devices, reducing installation complexity while maintaining all necessary functions through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed as a universal multifunctional unit that can perform security locking, remote control, sensor monitoring, and emergency override functions. This multi-functionality replaces multiple specialized devices with a single versatile system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If conventional locking mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple, but emergency disconnection and manual override are difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanism simplicityVSAvoidemergency disconnection speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates automatic emergency release functionality where the actuator can be quickly disconnected or overridden without requiring complex manual manipulation. The system provides its own emergency release mechanism that simplifies the disconnection process while maintaining secure normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Force

If hybrid systems with air or oil pistons are used, then powerful actuation is achieved, but the devices become large and difficult to fit in limited spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuation powerVSAvoiddevice size and space requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces bulky hydraulic or pneumatic piston systems with a more compact electric motor and actuator mechanism. This substitution maintains the necessary actuation force while dramatically reducing the device size, making it suitable for installation in spaces with limited accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8910499B2Multifunctional locking device and servomotor with actuator which can be wound up around an interchangeable reel
Publication Date: 2014.12.16 DE FRANCESCHI DANIELE
  • US8910499B2 patent drawing
  • US8910499B2 patent drawing
  • US8910499B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are a multifunctional locking device a housing, and a motor in the housing. An actuator includes a distal end, a filament configured to convey a signal between the distal end and the housing, a first actuator section including a first plurality of engagement members, and a second actuator section including a second plurality of engagement members. There is a reel in the housing, the reel being driven by the motor, the reel being configured to wind up and store the first actuator section at a time when the first engagement members are disengaged from the second engagement members. A combining head is configured to bring the first actuator section together with the second actuator section, to engage the first engagement members with the second engagement members, thereby increasing a rigidity of the actuator, enabling the actuator to impart both a pushing force and a pulling force to an object.