Torque Limitor in Intelligent Door Lock System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional door lock systems, particularly those with deadbolts, are susceptible to unauthorized access due to the need for manual operation and lack of torque limiting mechanisms, leading to potential security breaches and increased risk of theft.

Innovation Solution

An intelligent door lock system incorporating a torque limiter mechanism that reduces excessive force applied to components, allowing for secure operation without manual intervention and enhancing component longevity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual operation of deadbolt is required for security, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates and risk of forgetting to lock increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The deadbolt system automatically locks itself after door closure without requiring manual intervention. The controller detects door closure and autonomously actuates the deadbolt to the locked position, eliminating the need for users to remember to manually lock the door while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The deadbolt is automatically actuated immediately upon door closure, performing the locking action in advance before the user needs to leave or before any potential security threat arises. This preliminary automatic locking ensures the door is secured without requiring user action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If excessive torque is applied to motor for rapid locking, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and component durability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking speedVSAvoidcomponent durability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The torque limiter dynamically adjusts the torque transmitted to the motor during deadbolt actuation. It allows high torque initially for rapid locking but automatically reduces torque when resistance exceeds a threshold, preventing component damage while maintaining fast operation. This dynamic torque management resolves the contradiction between speed and durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If torque limiter is added to protect components, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent protectionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torque limiter acts as an intermediary mechanical device between the motor and the deadbolt mechanism. It passively limits torque through its mechanical design without requiring electronic sensors, controllers, or complex control systems. This simple mechanical intermediary protects components while adding minimal complexity to the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 intelligent door lock system provides enhanced security by preventing unauthorized access and extending component lifespan through reduced mechanical stress, ensuring secure and reliable operation.

Implementation Method 1

A torque limiter is coupled to the circuit. The torque limiter is configured to reduce excessive force being applied to components of the intelligent door lock system.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorque limiting: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS9528294B2Intelligent door lock system with a torque limitor
Publication Date: 2016.12.27 MASTER LOCK CO INC
  • US9528294B2 patent drawing
  • US9528294B2 patent drawing
  • US9528294B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An intelligent door lock system has a drive shaft of a lock device. A circuit is coupled to the drive shaft. A torque limiter is coupled to the circuit. The torque limiter is configured to reduce excessive force being applied to components of the intelligent door lock system. A motor is coupled to the circuit.