Mechatronics · Product Iteration · Prototyping

Automatic RFID Bike Lock

A tap-to-lock mechanism that combines RFID authentication, electromechanical actuation, state feedback, and serviceable 3D-printed packaging.

Personal Project · Independent · Dec 2025–Present · College Station, TX

Exploded view of the current RFID bike lock design — Current v.08 architecture: electronics stack, motor, spool, shaft, and mounting foot.

v.08Current design

4 stepsControl sequence

RFIDKeyless authentication

OutdoorDesign target

System behavior

The product has to make its state obvious and execute the same sequence reliably every time. An Arduino Nano coordinates identity, motion, and user feedback.

Authenticate

Read the RFID fob and reject any credential that is not authorized.

Actuate

Drive the solenoid and retraction mechanism to change the lock state.

Confirm

Use LED and audio feedback so the user knows whether the lock is secure.

Prototype · Prove the loop

The first prototype answered the highest-risk question first: could the electronics authenticate a fob, actuate the mechanism, and report the new state? Packaging was intentionally simple.

Working first prototype of the RFID bike lock — Working prototype with RFID reader and status display.

SolidWorks model of the first bike lock enclosure — Simple first enclosure built around function, not final packaging.

Core loop proven

The prototype authenticated, actuated, and confirmed state reliably—clearing the way for mechanical integration and packaging iterations.

v.06 · Package the mechanism

The first major redesign moved the system into a compact cylindrical architecture and separated functional zones so the mechanism could still be assembled and serviced.

Mechanical

Retraction drive + spool

Organized the motion hardware around the lock body instead of the original wedge enclosure.

Electrical

Dedicated electronics bay

Separated RFID and control hardware from the locking and drive components.

Service

Bolt-on access panels

Kept internal components reachable for testing, repair, and continued iteration.

Exploded view of bike lock revision v.06 — v.06 subsystem packaging.

Assembled bike lock revision v.06 — v.06 assembled cylindrical housing.

v.08 · Integrate for use

The current revision stacks the control and RFID boards above the lock barrel, refines the drive shaft and cylindrical body, and adds a bolt-down foot for mounting to a frame or rack.

Exploded view of bike lock revision v.08 showing internal subsystems — v.08: integrated electronics, drive components, and mounting interface.

Next validation

Retraction + weather protection

The lock currently authenticates, actuates, and reports state. Current work targets the retraction drive and weatherproofing for daily outdoor use.

SolidWorksArduino NanoRFIDSolenoidsCircuit design3D printing

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