Actuator with locking mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Peg hooks in retail stores allow easy theft of multiple items, known as 'sweeping,' which is a significant problem in the retail industry, as they do not effectively deter shoplifters and can dissuade customers from purchasing products.
Innovation Solution
A product-dispensing device with a locking mechanism and time delay actuator that includes a rotatable locking gear, a button, and a biasing spring, which inhibits the rotation of the actuator in the dispensing direction, preventing customers from easily removing multiple items by requiring a deliberate action and incorporating a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple peg hook display is used, then customers can easily access products, but shoplifters can easily sweep multiple items causing theft
Solution Approach 1:
The display system transitions from a static peg hook to a dynamic mechanism with a support rod that can rotate between a horizontal display position and an angled secure position. The rod dynamically adjusts its state based on whether items are being dispensed or are at rest, providing both accessibility and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rod changes its angular parameter between two distinct positions: a horizontal position (0 degrees) that allows easy product access, and an angled position (e.g., 45 degrees) that secures products against theft. This parameter change enables the system to adapt its security level based on operational needs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a locking device with key is used, then theft is prevented, but customer access requires assistance from sales personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism enables customers to independently control product dispensing without requiring sales personnel assistance. The support rod can be manually rotated by customers to access products, and the system automatically returns to the secured position after dispensing, providing both theft prevention and customer independence.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a key-based locking system where the lock prevents access and requires a key to open, this invention inverts the approach by using a gravity-assisted automatic locking mechanism where the default secured position is maintained passively, and active manipulation is only needed for legitimate product dispensing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If S bends are added to the display hook, then sweeping is prevented, but it becomes difficult for customers to remove items
Solution Approach 1:
The support rod provides a smooth, continuous angled surface that guides items off the display during legitimate dispensing, unlike fixed S bends that create friction and resistance. The dynamic positioning allows items to slide easily along the angled rod while the rod's geometry naturally prevents sweeping motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rod creates an asymmetric geometry where the angled position provides a smooth discharge path for individual items, while the same geometry creates resistance against horizontal sweeping motions. This asymmetric design differentiates between legitimate single-item removal and theft-oriented sweeping.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a mechanical time delay mechanism is used, then sweeping is prevented, but the time required to dispense each item increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism applies preliminary anti-action by positioning the support rod at an angle before dispensing, which prevents sweeping from occurring in the first place. This eliminates the need for time-delay mechanisms that would otherwise be required to prevent theft, allowing immediate product access without extended dispensing times.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potential harm of restricted access into a benefit by using the support rod's angled position to both secure products and facilitate smooth, quick dispensing of individual items. The same geometric feature that prevents theft also enables efficient product removal, turning a security constraint into a dispensing advantage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively prevents 'sweeping' by requiring a deliberate action to dispense each item, thereby reducing theft and allowing customers to easily purchase products while ensuring that the locking mechanism secures the items until authorized removal.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing spring, which returns the support rod to the horizontal position
Implementation Method 2
The locking gear includes a locking arm configured to inhibit rotation of the actuator in the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A product-dispensing device comprises a rod, a product-dispensing coil, an actuator, a locking gear, and a button. The rod is configured to support a product. The product-dispensing coil is disposed about the rod. The actuator is operably coupled to the product-dispensing coil for rotation about a first axis. The locking gear is rotatable between a first position and a second position and includes a locking arm configured to inhibit rotation of the actuator in the second position. The button is operably coupled to the locking gear and configured to rotate the locking gear between the first position and the second position.