Smart Interlock System for Electric Equipment Anti-Misoperation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional program-locks lack flexibility and modifiability due to dependence on structural relations, leading to complex logic relationships and high risk of false operations in electric equipment sequences, especially when physical locks are damaged or fail to communicate accurately with computers.
Innovation Solution
A smart interlock system comprising a lock, an unlocking device, and a logic generator that uses identity and state identification logic to determine if equipment can be operated, allowing for flexible configuration and wireless communication of lock states to prevent false operations, converting mechanical locks to electronic ones for sequential operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional program-locks are used with physical locks and key-exchange mechanisms, then equipment operation sequence can be controlled, but the system lacks flexibility and modifiability when logical relations are complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical lock systems with electronic smart locks that use RFID or other wireless communication technologies. The lock state information is transmitted electronically to the computer system, which processes the operational logic and controls equipment sequencing through software rather than mechanical key-exchange mechanisms. This substitution enables flexible modification of operational sequences through programming without requiring physical changes to the lock system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more sets of equipment are added with complex logic relationships, then more locks and key-exchange processes are needed, but the system becomes more complex and harder to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal computer-based control system that can manage multiple equipment sets with various complex logic relationships through a single integrated platform. The system uses a standardized interface where all smart locks communicate with the central computer, which processes different operational sequences and logic conditions through software programming. This universal approach allows the system to adapt to different equipment configurations and operational requirements without adding separate lock systems for each equipment set.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses electronic copies of lock state information transmitted via wireless communication between smart locks and the computer system. Instead of requiring physical key-exchange processes, the system creates and processes digital representations of lock states, operational sequences, and equipment status. This allows the computer to accurately track and control the state of multiple equipment sets through information copying and processing, simplifying the management of complex operational relationships.
3Reliability
If physical locks are used, then equipment can be locked to prevent unauthorized operation, but the locks are easily damaged by natural factors such as corrosion and have high damage rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces vulnerable mechanical lock components with electronic smart locks that use solid-state electronics and wireless communication. These electronic locks are resistant to corrosion and environmental degradation that affect traditional mechanical locks. The lock mechanism uses electronic circuits and magnetic or electromagnetic components that do not rust or deteriorate from exposure to moisture and air, significantly improving reliability in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transmits lock state information electronically from the smart lock to the computer system through wireless communication or electrical connections. This creates a digital copy of the lock state that can be processed and verified by the computer, providing redundant information storage and verification. Even if the physical lock component fails, the electronic record of lock state and operational authorization remains intact, maintaining system reliability.
4Productivity
If computer-based control is used with keys storing operation sequences, then operations can be performed in sequence, but the computer can't correctly acquire the present state of equipment in operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where smart locks continuously transmit their state information to the computer system in real-time. The computer receives and processes this feedback information about equipment status, lock states, and operational conditions. Based on this feedback, the computer can accurately determine the current state of equipment and make appropriate control decisions, ensuring that operational sequences are executed correctly and that the system maintains an accurate understanding of equipment status throughout operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart interlock system and a working method thereof. The smart interlock system includes a lock (1), an unlocking device (2) and a logic generator (3). The logic generator (3) comprises a logic generation module and a logic communication module. The logic generation module generates identity identification logic and state identification logic of the lock, and the two kinds of logic are sent to the unlocking device (2) through the logic communication module. The lock (1) comprises a lock tongue (102), a lock head (106) and an identity and state converting module (104). The unlocking device (2) comprises an unlocking module for starting the lock head to move, an identity identifying module (201) and a communication module. The identity identifying module (201) of the unlocking device identifies the identity of the lock, receives an identity label information which is transferred from the identity and state converting module (104) of the lock, recognizes the state of the lock tongue (102), and judges whether to unlock the lock or not according to the identity identification logic and state identification logic of the lock which are received from the logic generator (3). The smart interlock system works flexibly and enables electric anti-misoperation to be reliable and intelligent.