Adjustable Anti-Theft Arms with Interlocking Teeth for Merchandise Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current anti-theft devices for electronic gadgets are inadequate as they can be easily circumvented by removing the back cover, and existing solutions are either ineffective or aesthetically unattractive, discouraging consumer interaction with the products.
Innovation Solution
An anti-theft device with adjustable bracket arms and a locking mechanism that allows for secure attachment to electronic gadgets without obstructing their functionality, featuring a sliding actuator to transition between locked and unlocked configurations, ensuring the arms can accommodate various gadget geometries and prevent unauthorized removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed anti-theft device with rigid arms is used, then the device provides strong security against theft, but it cannot accommodate various gadget geometries and requires precise adjustment for different products
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the bracket arms adjustable and movable rather than fixed. The arms can be repositioned along the housing to accommodate different gadget dimensions, and the locking mechanism dynamically transitions between locked and unlocked states to provide both security and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable anti-theft device with movable arms is used, then the device can accommodate various gadget geometries, but it becomes vulnerable to theft when the locking mechanism is not engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the bracket arms with multiple positioning locations and teeth that align with corresponding teeth on the locking mechanism. This allows the arms to be quickly adjusted to the correct position before engagement, ensuring both adaptability and security without requiring complex real-time adjustments
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple components is used, then the device provides robust security, but it increases device complexity and may obstruct access to gadget features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism with the bracket arm structure itself. The locking component is integrated into the housing and works in conjunction with teeth on the bracket arms, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining security robustness
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-theft device for securing an article of merchandise against unauthorized removal from a display counter. The anti-theft device includes a plurality of arms slidingly disposed within the housing. Grips are disposed on proximal ends of the arms and are configured to receive and secure edges of an article of merchandise. A locking mechanism is disposed within the housing of the anti-theft device. Complimentary teeth are disposed on the locking component and the arms. An actuator transitions the locking components between a first unlocked configuration in which the teeth of the locking components are retracted away from the teeth of the arms, and a second locked configuration in which the teeth of the locking components engage the teeth of the arms.