Berkshire-based Codelocks has produced a lock based on a piezo
actuator from Servocell of Essex.
“It uses piezo electrics for the first time in a
stand-alone electronic lock and provides a battery life of over
500,000 operations,” said a Codelocks spokesman. “The
piezo latch mechanism requires 66 times less power than a solenoid
driven clutch mechanism.”
The actuator consumes 2mJ, so it can pick-up power from unlikely
sources. “A telephone line with its 48V supply can only
deliver a very limited amount of current, too little for motors and
solenoids in existing locks but ample for piezoelectric
devices,” said the spokesman. “The locks can also be
powered over an Ethernet network.”
Codelocks’ model 5000 Electronic, is designed for
commercial buildings, schools and hospitals. Battery life is
claimed to be over 500,000 operations.
A basic actuator runs from 6V and contains a flyback generator
to obtain the necessary high voltages.
“Next month we’re launching a product using the
Dallas 1-wire technology,” said Simon Powell, business
development manager at Servocell, which will give every lock an
individual address.
Inside the actuator, a piezoelectric element gives 1.5 to 2mm
movement at 1N force - enough to trip the internal lock mechanism.
Powell claimed the lock module can withstand tonnes of pressure
despite the low force available from the actuator.
www.codelocks.co.uk
www.servocell.com