What’s Battery-free locking solutions

KERONG Battery-free locking solutions are advanced access control systems that operate without internal batteries by harvesting energy from ambient sources or user interactions. These systems typically utilize techniques such as NFC energy harvesting from smartphones, kinetic energy generated by key actuation, or other ambient sources like solar or thermal gradients. By eliminating the need for batteries, these locks offer maintenance-free operation, enhanced sustainability, and reliable performance even during power outages.

Definition

Battery-free locking solutions are electromechanical or electronic locks that do not rely on batteries or wired power supplies for their operation. Instead, they integrate miniature electronics powered solely by energy harvested from the environment or user-generated actions. In the industry, this category is often referred to as “passive electronic locks,” highlighting their lack of an internal power source and reliance on external energy inputs. 

Types of Energy Harvesting Techniques

NFC Energy Harvesting

NFC-enabled locks harvest power from the electromagnetic field generated by a smartphone or NFC credential. Infineon’s NFC energy-harvesting chip can draw 20-50 mW from the phone’s NFC field to power smart-lock electronics. 

Kinetic Energy Harvesting

Kinetic solutions convert mechanical motion—such as inserting and turning a key—into electrical energy.

How Battery-Free Locks Work

Energy Capture: An NFC coil, kinetic generator, or ambient harvester converts external energy into electrical power. 

Power Management: A microcontroller or energy-harvesting power-management IC regulates and stores the harvested energy temporarily to ensure stable operation. 

Authentication & Actuation: The lock’s electronics verify credentials—via NFC data exchange or key-chip communication—and then drive a small motor or solenoid to retract the bolt and unlock the door.

Benefits

Maintenance‑Free: No battery replacements are needed, eliminating downtime and reducing labor costs.

Environmental Sustainability: Removing disposable batteries cuts e‑waste and supports corporate sustainability goals. 

Reliability: These locks function during power outages or in remote locations without wired power, ensuring continuous access control. 

Centralized Management: Access rights can be updated in real time via a cloud or NFC credential, streamlining security administration. 

Applications

Battery‑free locking solutions are deployed across diverse sectors:

Utilities & Critical Infrastructure: Passive electronic locks secure substations, water treatment plants, and communication hubs where maintenance access is crucial.

Commercial & Office Buildings: Smart offices leverage NFC-powered locks for flexible, wire-free installation and credential management. 

Hospitality: Hotels adopt key-free systems that draw energy from smartphones, reducing guest friction and maintenance costs.

Residential: Homeowners use battery-free smart locks for hassle-free security without worrying about battery life.

Future Trends

The adoption of battery-free locking technology is accelerating, driven by growing sustainability mandates and the desire to reduce total cost of ownership. Contact us for more information about battery-free locking solutions.