Spring-Loaded Locking Assembly for Low-Power Remote Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices with motorized systems require high operational loads and power consumption, leading to frequent battery replacements and motor degradation, which is costly and disruptive.
Innovation Solution
A locking device assembly utilizing low-power motors and identical lock springs to store and release energy, reducing power requirements through a spring-loaded actuator mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If motorized systems are used to actuate locking members, then remote locking and unlocking capability is achieved, but power consumption increases and motor degradation accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock springs are pre-compressed by the motor during normal operation to store mechanical energy. This preliminary action allows the locking member to be actuated later using the stored spring energy rather than requiring continuous motor power, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining remote actuation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system alternates between motor-driven compression of the lock springs during normal operation and spring-driven actuation of the locking member when locking/unlocking is needed. This periodic alternation between motor action and spring action reduces the duty cycle of the motor, extending its lifespan and reducing power consumption
2Extent of automation
If motorized systems are used to actuate locking members, then remote locking and unlocking capability is achieved, but motor degradation accelerates requiring frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The motor performs preliminary compression of the lock springs during normal operation, storing energy for later use. This reduces the motor's operational duty cycle since it doesn't need to continuously drive the locking member, thereby reducing wear and extending motor lifespan
Solution Approach 2:
The lock springs act as an intermediary energy storage mechanism between the motor and the locking member. The motor compresses the springs, which then release energy to actuate the locking member, protecting the motor from direct mechanical stress and frequent actuation cycles that cause degradation
3Reliability
If high-power motors are used to drive locking members, then reliable actuation is achieved, but battery replacement frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor compresses the lock springs during normal operation to store mechanical energy in advance. When actuation is needed, the stored spring energy is released to drive the locking member, reducing the amount of battery power needed and extending battery life while maintaining reliable actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic motor action to compress springs during normal operation, then relies on spring energy storage for the actual locking/unlocking actuation. This periodic energy storage approach reduces overall battery power consumption while ensuring reliable actuation when needed
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
The system operates at lower power levels, extending battery life and reducing maintenance costs by minimizing energy consumption and prolonging the lifespan of components.
Implementation Method 1
Compression of at least one of the first lock spring and the second lock spring between the shuttle and the chassis stores energy in the at least one of the first lock spring and the second lock spring
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects disclosed herein relate to electrified locking device assemblies and related methods. In some embodiments, a locking device assembly may include a motorized drive assembly for helping return a locking member to its original position following an incomplete door handle actuation. In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a motor and spring-loaded actuator, which may be permitted to release energy by transferring the stored energy to a pivotable arm of the locking device assembly. In some embodiments, the motorized drive assembly may include two lock springs, each of which may store energy when compressed between a motor-driven shuttle and a proximal wall.