How to Make a Remote Controlled Door Lock

In this Instructable, I'm going to show you how to make a simple, reliable remote control door lock. This type of lock can be used in many different applications such as a front or interior door in your house, or a cupboard or drawer that you don't want your kids getting into.

Let's get started!

Step 1: What You Will Need

Below is the parts list for this project. It may be possible to accomplish this with less cost using an RC rotary servo or the electronics from an RC car. I've seen a few different ones around. We've taken a different approach and used only high-quality parts that will leave you with a nicer looking build that will last you a long time and not look as DIY.

1. "S" series Linear Servo (we've used an Actuonix L16 with a 30mm stroke)

2. Wireless RF Remote Control (Also available from Actuonix - $40USD)

3. Sliding Bolt Lock - Available from any hardware store.

4. 12V DC Power Supply

5. A Length Of Rigid Wire

Step 2: Mount the Lock

I can't provide much detail on this as how you mount the lock will depend on your particular project. Mount it in a way that makes sense for your purpose. Just be sure that you're within range of a wall plug and that the lock slides smoothly the entire way to get maximum lifespan from your linear servo and get maximum lifespan.

Step 3: Wire the RF Controller

Wire the controller according to the diagram below. The "S" series actuator will plug directly into the plug at the end of t he red and black wires on the output side. To connect the device to the 12V power supply, be sure to wire positive and negative correctly.

Both wires are black so double check your work here. The wire with the white dotted line is positive.

Step 4: Connect the Servo to the Lock

This can be done any number of different ways. I chose to use a piece of rigid wire that I had kicking around. This allows for a firm connection between the two, but has enough give that nothing will break if the lock binds up.

Step 5: Test the Movement

Now you're ready to test your remote control door lock. Using one of the 2 wireless controllers that comes with the RF controller, run the lock back and forth and make sure that it doesn't bind up at all.

Now is the time to fine-tune your lock and make adjustments as necessary.

Once you've got it dialed in, enjoy your new wireless remote lock!

Comments

[AaronR157]

Could you please recommend a way to hook this up to WiFi so I could unlock my door from home using my smartphone? Thanks!

[actuonix]

We don't offer an app or anything of that sort. I know what you're asking is possible via arduino but unfortunately we don't sell or support arduino. The arduino forums are a great place to get that kind of info.

[aheat10]

could you make a video explaining this better?

[actuonix]

Can you define 'better' for me? I think that the video above is fairly clear. Of course you would need to alter it to suit your application.

[gm280]

Great idea and setup. I looked up your "S" series linear servo and there are a bit pricey. You could bring down the cost using a typical 12 volt automotive door lock actuator and accomplish the same results at a fraction of the cost. Good project though.

[actuonix]

Thanks for the comment gm20. The 12V door locks should also run on the RF controller. This was not intended to be a budget build, I wanted something that I like the look of and I'm confident will last for years.