Wireless Cabinet Lock with Preload Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for cabinets and lockers lack wireless communication with remote access control systems, cannot be easily installed in various positions, do not sense preload conditions, and lack a key override feature, leading to inefficiencies and security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wireless, battery-powered locking system with an external assembly and internal assembly that includes a card reader, wireless communication, preload sensing, and a mechanical key override, allowing for secure operation and flexible installation, with a rack and pinion gear mechanism for secure latching and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electromechanical latching apparatus is mounted on the movable member (door or drawer), then the locking mechanism can be actuated by a linear solenoid or DC motor, but it becomes difficult to engage with a mating part located above or to the side of the movable member
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into two separate assemblies: an external assembly containing the actuator and control electronics, and an internal assembly containing the latch mechanism. This segmentation allows each assembly to be optimized independently and installed in different positions, solving the problem of engaging mating parts located above or to the side of the movable member.
Solution Approach 2:
A shaft rotation link serves as an intermediary mechanism connecting the external knob shaft to the latch bolt assembly. This intermediary allows the actuation force to be transmitted from the external assembly to the internal latch mechanism, enabling flexible positioning while maintaining functional connection.
2Device complexity
If prior art locking devices are used, then basic locking function is provided, but they cannot communicate with a centrally located access control system in a wireless mode
Solution Approach 1:
The external assembly is designed with multiple functions integrated into a single unit: card/credential reader, wireless communication transceiver, status indicator, and control electronics. This multi-functional design enables wireless communication with centralized access control systems while maintaining basic locking functionality, eliminating the need for separate communication devices.
3Reliability
If prior art locking devices are used, then locking function is provided, but none have the capability of delaying the unlock signal until any preload on the release mechanism has been removed
Solution Approach 1:
A preload sensing feature provides feedback about the force applied to the release mechanism. The control system uses this feedback to determine when to activate the unlocking sequence, delaying the unlock signal until the preload has been removed. This ensures safe and controlled operation while preventing premature unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary sensing of the preload condition before initiating the unlock sequence. By detecting the absence of preload first, the system prepares and then executes the unlocking action at the appropriate time, ensuring proper timing and safety.
4Reliability
If prior art locking devices are used, then basic locking is provided, but none have the ability to sense the presence of the locking member in its mating part
Solution Approach 1:
The latch bolt assembly incorporates a sensing feature that detects the presence of the locking member in its mating part. This sensing mechanism replaces complex mechanical detection systems with a more reliable and simpler detection method, improving reliability while minimizing added complexity.
5Adaptability or versatility
If prior art locking devices are used, then locking function is provided, but few if any have a mechanical key override
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical key override feature is integrated into the external assembly, combining the benefits of electronic control with mechanical backup. This merging of electronic and mechanical systems provides versatility by allowing both electronic authorization and mechanical override, while the integration minimizes the additional complexity introduced by the mechanical feature.
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, wireless operation with flexible installation options, delayed unlock signals until preload is removed, and provides a key override, enhancing security and usability by ensuring the lock is only released when authorized.
Implementation Method 1
a battery-powered motor, such as a DC motor, a piezo motor or a linear piezo actuator rotates the blocker 90°, or otherwise linearly displaces the blocker
Implementation Method 2
The battery powered locking mechanism includes a rack and pinion gear set linking the shaft rotation link with a latch sleeve supporting the latch bolt
Implementation Method 3
which has a spring latch mechanism which automatically locks a cabinet/locker door or drawer when pushed closed
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic wireless locking system comprising an external assembly and an internal assembly disposable on respective sides of a door or drawer. The external assembly includes a cover housing, a knob having a shaft, a card/credential reader, a status indicator, a wireless communication capability, a wire harness and a jump port plug. The internal assembly comprises a rotation link matable with the external shaft, a latch bolt, a circuit board and controller, and a locking mechanism including a rack and pinion gear set linking the rotation link with the latch bolt. A blocker inhibits the latch bolt from unlocking until authorized to rotate 90°, permitting the latch bolt to be withdrawn from a strike plate by manual rotation of the knob. An optional mechanical key override feature may also be provided. The system may further include a preload sensor and a device locked sensor.