Motor-Actuated Touchpad Lock Assembly with Synchronized Deadbolt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paddle handle assemblies for recreational vehicles and motor homes require manual operation, are not adapted for remote control, and have complex constructions that are expensive to manufacture and difficult to repair, with alignment issues between deadbolt and strike mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A lock assembly with a pivotally mounted external handle, a latch, key lock, lock cam, and motor-actuated deadbolt lock, allowing manual, touchpad, or remote control operation, featuring a simplified design with water diversion channels and a sensor system for position determination and battery monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual lock cylinders and key locks are used to actuate the latch and deadbolt, then the assembly is simple to manufacture, but it lacks remote control capability and requires physical key access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key lock cylinder with an electronic motor assembly actuated by a touchpad interface. The motor assembly includes a motor, gear train, and linkages that convert rotational motor output into linear deadbolt movement and cam rotation for latch control, eliminating the need for manual key insertion and providing remote electronic actuation capability.
2Reliability
If the paddle handle assembly includes both latch and deadbolt mechanisms, then security is improved, but the construction becomes complicated and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuation mechanisms for both the latch and deadbolt into a single integrated motor assembly. One motor with connected linkages simultaneously controls the deadbolt extension/retraction and the latch lock/unlock through a gear train system, reducing the need for separate actuators and simplifying the overall construction while maintaining dual-locking security.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly serves multiple functions: it actuates the deadbolt lock, controls the latch mechanism, and can be operated through multiple interfaces (touchpad, remote control, or manual override). This multi-functionality reduces the total component count compared to having separate dedicated actuators for each locking function.
3Manufacturing precision
If the deadbolt and latch are independently actuated, then each can be optimized for its function, but alignment between the deadbolt and strike becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuation of the deadbolt and latch into a single synchronized mechanism driven by one motor assembly. The gear train and linkages ensure that both components move in coordination, maintaining proper alignment with their respective strikes during operation. The housing structure further supports this alignment through integrated mounting features.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional key locks are used, then the assembly is easy to repair, but it cannot be operated remotely and requires physical access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical key lock cylinder with an electric motor assembly controlled by electronic circuitry and a touchpad interface. This substitution enables remote operation capabilities through wireless communication while providing multiple backup methods including manual override mechanisms and interior access options, though it does increase repair complexity compared to simple mechanical locks.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock assembly for a closure comprises a housing, a handle pivotally mounted in an exterior portion of the housing and a latch operably connected with the handle. A key lock mounted on the exterior portion of the housing has a locked and an unlocked position. A lock cam rotatably mounted in the housing is operably connected with the key lock for rotation therewith. A deadbolt lock is operably connected to the lock cam via a crank arm and a link to a motor. An electronic touchpad mounted on the exterior portion of the housing is operatively connected with the motor, whereby entry of a preselected numerical code actuates the motor and contemporaneously shifts the deadbolt lock between locked and unlocked positions.