Wireless Mobile Lock Using NFC Power Instead of Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locks that rely on batteries or accumulators for power face issues when they become completely discharged, rendering them inoperable, and require frequent recharging or replacement, which compromises user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A lock design that utilizes electromagnetic energy conversion for wireless power supply and incorporates a mechanical locking mechanism with a cam disk and spring elements to control the locking bolts, eliminating the need for battery compartments or cable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a battery or accumulator is used to power the lock, then the lock can be controlled wirelessly, but the battery must be replaced or recharged periodically, compromising user convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system performs self-charging by utilizing the electromagnetic field generated during normal wireless communication with the mobile device. The energy harvesting circuit converts electromagnetic energy into electrical energy, automatically recharging the capacitor without user intervention, thereby eliminating the need for periodic manual recharging or battery replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the wireless communication function with the energy harvesting function into a single integrated system. The mobile device serves dual purposes: it both controls the lock and simultaneously charges it through electromagnetic energy transfer, merging two separate functions into one unified operation
2Duration of action of moving object
If the battery capacity is increased to extend operational duration, then the lock can operate longer, but the lock size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on a large battery to store energy for extended operation, the system continuously harvests electromagnetic energy during normal use and stores it in a small capacitor. This self-charging mechanism eliminates the need for large energy storage components, maintaining compact lock dimensions and lightweight construction while ensuring indefinite operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static energy storage approach (large battery) to a dynamic energy harvesting approach. The capacitor is continuously charged and discharged during operation, with charging occurring during each wireless communication event. This dynamic energy management allows the lock to operate indefinitely without requiring large energy storage capacity
3Ease of operation
If wireless control is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control signal transmission and energy transfer functions into a single wireless communication process. The mobile device transmits both control commands and electromagnetic energy simultaneously through the same communication interface, eliminating the need for separate charging operations and reducing overall energy requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the electromagnetic radiation, which would normally be considered energy loss or waste during wireless communication, into a useful resource for charging the lock. By harvesting the electromagnetic energy emitted during control operations, the system transforms what would be wasted energy into a charging source, effectively making the control process self-sustaining
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 wireless control and operation of the lock, reducing energy consumption and enhancing user convenience by allowing manual operation without external charging, suitable for securing mobile objects like bicycles and motorcycles.
Implementation Method 1
an energy conversion unit for converting electromagnetic energy transmittable via a mobile device, in particular electromagnetic energy transmittable via NFC technology or QI technology, into an electrical voltage for supplying the electric motor and the processing unit
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4B
Figure 4C~4D
AI summary
The invention relates to a mobile lock (1) for securing a mobile object, wherein the lock (1) can be wirelessly controlled by a mobile device (2), wherein the lock (1) has a base body (3) and a connecting body (4) that can be locked to the base body (3), wherein the base body (3) comprises: - a housing (11), - an electric motor (5), - a processing unit (6) for controlling the electric motor (5), wherein the processing unit (6) is configured to control the electric motor (5) depending on a signal (Sin) received by a mobile device (2), - an energy conversion unit (7) for converting electromagnetic energy transmittable via a mobile device (2), in particular electromagnetic energy transmittable via NFC technology or QI technology, into an electrical voltage for supplying the electric motor (5) and the processing unit (6).- a mechanical locking system (8) comprising a locking unit (9) that is displaceable with respect to the housing (11) and at least one locking element (10) coupled thereto,