Magnetic lock and status detection system and method therefor
US6271751A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 7, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T70/625
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An electromagnetic lock and status detection system and method therefor includes an armature, an electromagnet, and a status detection unit. The electromagnet is magnetically attracted to the armature into a mating relationship. A relatively high inductance is established in the electromagnet when the electromagnet is properly mated with the armature, and a relatively low inductance is established in the electromagnet when the electromagnet is not properly mated with armature. The status detection unit is coupled to the electromagnet to monitor the locking strength between the electromagnet and the armature. The unit monitors the locking strength by altering voltage level provided to the electromagnet and measuring the counter EMF induced in the electromagnet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.