Solenoid Controller Using Pulsating Power for Electromechanical Locks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electromechanical locks face challenges in reducing current consumption while maintaining sufficient power generation, particularly in smaller solenoids where space constraints limit solenoid size, leading to inefficiencies in energy use and potential overheating.
Innovation Solution
The solenoid controller generates motion power using alternating higher and lower power levels, employing pulsating power to overcome friction forces, which consumes less current than steady power and allows for a stronger return spring, enabling more secure and reliable lock operation with reduced energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the solenoid size is reduced to fit space constraints, then the device becomes more compact, but the solenoid generates insufficient power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using pulsating motion power with alternating higher and lower power levels to drive the solenoid plunger. This periodic power delivery enables a smaller solenoid to generate sufficient power by delivering concentrated power bursts that overcome friction forces during critical motion phases, rather than requiring continuous high power that would necessitate a larger solenoid.
2Reliability
If steady motion power is used to move the solenoid plunger, then the plunger moves reliably, but current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller generates motion power with alternating higher and lower power levels in a periodic manner. The higher power levels provide sufficient force to overcome friction and move the plunger reliably, while the lower power levels reduce overall current consumption. This periodic variation maintains operational reliability while significantly reducing energy usage compared to steady high power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power delivery variable rather than static. The controller dynamically adjusts the power levels delivered to the solenoid, switching between higher and lower power levels based on the operational phase. This dynamic power delivery optimizes both reliability and energy efficiency, allowing the system to use high power only when necessary for overcoming friction during plunger movement.
3Speed
If the solenoid operates continuously at high power, then the lock operation is fast, but unnecessary heating occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The pulsating motion power with alternating higher and lower power levels enables fast lock operation during the higher power phases while allowing cooling periods during the lower power phases. This periodic power delivery pattern maintains operational speed by delivering high power bursts when needed, while preventing excessive temperature buildup by reducing power during intervals, thus avoiding unnecessary heating.
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
This approach reduces current consumption, allows for a smaller solenoid size, enhances lock reliability, and prevents unnecessary heating by optimizing power usage and spring strength, making the lock mechanism more efficient and secure.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid comprises a coil fitted into a ferromagnetic body. A solenoid plunger, which is a metal rod, is located inside the coil and moved by means of a magnetic field generated around the coil.
Implementation Method 2
A solenoid plunger, which is a metal rod, is located inside the coil and moved by means of a magnetic field generated around the coil. The movement of the solenoid plunger is utilised in lock mechanisms to achieve the desired action.
Implementation Method 3
A solenoid typically employs a return spring to return the solenoid plunger to the initial position when the solenoid is unenergised.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
In an embodiment according to the invention, the controller for a solenoid in an electromechanical lock is arranged to generate motion power to move the solenoid plunger and holding power to hold the solenoid plunger in place so that the motion power generated consists of a higher power level and a lower power level that are alternating.