Solar Powered Access Control Device for Remote Locations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Remote locations without access to line power face inefficiencies in access control systems due to the need for manual locks and cumbersome management of physical keys or numerical combinations for securing areas like swimming pools.

Innovation Solution

An access control device featuring an electronic locking mechanism, a credential reader, and a control unit powered by a rechargeable battery, which is charged by solar power, allowing for secure and efficient credential-based access control without the need for physical keys or network connectivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual locks with physical keys or numerical combinations are used in remote locations, then access control can be provided without line power, but access management becomes cumbersome and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess management efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical locking systems with an electronic locking mechanism that accepts various credential types (proximity cards, mobile devices, biometrics). This substitution eliminates the need for physical key distribution and numerical combination management, directly resolving the contradiction by improving access management efficiency while the self-contained solar-powered design keeps the added electronic complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The access control device is designed to be self-sufficient with integrated solar panels that automatically recharge the battery during daytime, eliminating the need for external power connections or manual battery replacement. This self-service capability allows the system to operate autonomously in remote locations, improving ease of operation without requiring complex power infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If electronic locking mechanisms with credential readers are deployed in remote locations, then access control efficiency improves, but power supply requirements increase system complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess control efficiencyVSAvoidpower supply complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The access control device is designed as a universal, self-contained unit that integrates multiple functions: credential reading, electronic locking control, solar power generation, and battery storage. This multi-functional design allows the system to operate efficiently in remote locations without requiring separate power supply infrastructure, reducing power supply complexity while maintaining high access control efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the previously harmful limitation of no power access into a benefit by implementing solar power generation. The solar panels, which would be unnecessary in locations with power access, become the key enabling technology for remote operation. This transformation allows the system to thrive in remote locations, converting the power accessibility challenge into a competitive advantage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Adaptability or versatility

If solar-powered access control devices are installed in remote locations, then power independence is achieved, but initial device cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower independenceVSAvoiddevice cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the solar power generation system with the access control device into a single integrated unit. By combining the credential reader, electronic lock controller, battery, and solar panels into one self-contained device, the system achieves power independence while optimizing cost efficiency. This integration eliminates the need for separate power infrastructure and reduces installation complexity, partially offsetting the higher initial device cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 secure, efficient, and cost-effective access control in remote locations by providing a solar-powered solution for electronic locking mechanisms, simplifying the management of access privileges and eliminating the need for physical key distribution.

Implementation Method 1

A solar device is connected to the rechargeable battery for receiving solar power to charge the rechargeable battery

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11887419B2Solar powered access control devices

Publication Date: 2024.01.30 SCHLAGE LOCK CO LLC

AI summary

Access control devices are provided that include locking mechanisms, reader devices, and control units powered by solar devices.