Wireless Lockset Using Optical Power and Data Transmission

The patent replaces the mechanical wire connection system with an optical wireless communication system. The exterior assembly includes an LED that emits light signals, and the interior assembly includes a photodetector that receives these signals. This substitution eliminates the need for physical wires passing through the door bore hole, thereby preventing wire damage during installation while maintaining reliable communication between assemblies.

The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium to transfer electrical signals between the exterior and interior assemblies. Instead of direct electrical contact through wires, the LED converts electrical signals to light signals, which then travel through the door material to the photodetector, converting back to electrical signals. This intermediary approach avoids the harmful effect of wire pinching and damage during installation.

The patent implements multi-functionality where the LED serves dual purposes: it acts as both a communication transmitter (sending authentication codes and status signals) and a power transmission source (providing energy to the photovoltaic solar cell). Similarly, the photodetector serves both as a communication receiver and as part of the power reception system. This reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying installation despite the wireless technology.

The patent merges the communication and power transmission functions into a single optical channel. The LED and photodetector pair handles both data exchange and energy transfer through the same optical path, eliminating the need for separate wire runs for power and communication. This consolidation reduces installation complexity by requiring only one bore hole and simplifying the routing requirements.