I would like to get together with some of the electronics and engineering types here at Makerspace to design a standardized RFID lock for the generic Sams club cabinets most of the committees use.
All that’s is needed is a raspberry pi, RFID reader and a mechanical device that will turn the existing lock 45 degree to open, and a switch at the top of the door to lock it back once its closed. A power source would be needed as well.
I suggest a meeting maybe this Saturday where we can brainstorm and hopefully come up with something all the committees can use.
In addition to tool interlocks, 3D Fab, Electronics, Science, Creative Arts, Jewelry, Digital Media have been wanting RFID controlled locking storage. It is time to get organized and get it done.
We don’t need to start from scratch, the existing controllers we have will work, we just need to change how long the circuit stays latched. This is no different from the one that we are using in machine shop. Instead of staying on for a period, it stays on for 5 secs opening a latch.
The problems were software and reliability of the USB reader. Using a car door actuator like in the cabinet is the cheapest and easiest option using two relays on a PiHat. We already have the rfid interlock software, just needs to be implemented.
Same with the MultiCam lockout, it just needs a relay to interrupt the E-stop loop to prevent unauthorized users.
Jumping the gun a bit until we have a meeting, the 3D Fab cabinet uses automotive power door lock actuators to operate the door lock pins.
Strings tied to the bell crank attached to the existing lock cylinder serve as a failsafe way to get into the cabinet in case of system failure or power blackout. I believe a secondary way to get into the cabinet is important.
The bell crank cannot be turned without the key in the lock, so it is not simply a matter of attaching a servo or stepper motor to the bell crank.
Do you have a better idea for locking and unlocking the door with a microcontroller?
OK let me get this back on tack a little, none of the designs mentioned above are what we are looking for. I have a design idea and need help making it happen, so if you are interested in helping with this project, message me please.
We are on our third one. Please stop using those crappy electromagnetic locks.
I suggest this for the 3D Fab cabinet…
The car door actuators in 3D Fab were slowing getting destroyed because people did not realize the bar could be in the way when they tried to close the doors.
Thanks for the update Brian! Is there any place that the curious can go to to check the status of this project? People keep asking me but I know it must be getting annoying. I had envisioned this becoming a DMS group of some sort (maybe a SIG or a group like the strandbeest).
Hmm I didn’t realize we went through them like candy.
My concern with the door lock actuator solution is that the cabinet can be rather flimsy and I’m not sure things will line up right every time. Certainly I’ve often had to jiggle the doors on those cabinets to get them to lock properly.
I like the style you linked, and it has the benefit of only being on when opening the door, rather than all the time. I think it’s worth a shot.
Automotive is very interested in being involved in this project. I am an experienced IT guy with lots of database experience. Not sure what needs to be done, but I am willing to help. We have three applications in Automotive, with a possible forth.
I have outlined our requirements, but would much rather utilize and/or adapt a ‘common’ DMS codebase.
