Adjustable Security Clamp for Mixed-Size Merchandise Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security apparatuses are inadequate for securing merchandise of varying sizes and proportions, as they either restrict customer interaction or are not designed to accommodate larger items like power tools and smaller items like jewelry, often requiring employee intervention to access or are overly intrusive.
Innovation Solution
A security system comprising a fixed member with a clamping portion and an adjustable member, coupled via a coupling element that can be locked or unlocked, allowing secure display and customer interaction with objects of different sizes by adjusting to fit various merchandise, while preventing theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed security apparatuses are used for portable electronic devices, then security is provided, but the apparatus cannot accommodate merchandise of varying sizes and proportions
Solution Approach 1:
The security element employs adjustable members with movable engagement surfaces that can be repositioned along the fixed member to accommodate different merchandise sizes. The coupling element allows the adjustable member to slide and lock at various positions, transforming a static security device into a dynamic one that adapts to different dimensions while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The security element is designed as a universal apparatus that can secure diverse merchandise types including portable electronics, power tools, televisions, and jewelry. The fixed member combined with the adjustable member creates a multi-functional system that replaces multiple size-specific security devices with a single versatile unit.
2Reliability
If fixed display units with locked merchandise are used, then security is improved, but customer accessibility and interaction are severely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The security element enables customers to independently attach and detach merchandise from display surfaces without employee assistance. The adjustable member can be easily positioned and locked by customers themselves, allowing them to access and examine merchandise freely while maintaining security. This self-service capability eliminates the need for employees to unlock fixed display units.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition from fixed locked displays to dynamic adjustable security elements allows merchandise to be securely displayed yet easily accessible. The adjustable member can be quickly repositioned and locked, providing continuous security while enabling customer interaction throughout the shopping experience rather than requiring periodic employee intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable security elements are used to accommodate different merchandise sizes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The security element is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed member providing structural stability, an adjustable member with movable engagement surfaces for size adaptation, and a coupling element for connection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement surface is nested within the adjustable member, allowing it to slide along the fixed member and lock at various positions. This nesting arrangement enables adjustability without requiring multiple separate components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A security element comprises a fixed member comprising a clamping portion proximate a first end and a coupling portion proximate the second end and defining a slot extending along a slot axis. The slot comprises an interior surface comprising a plurality of recesses. An adjustable member comprises an engagement portion configured to house a portion of the coupling portion of the fixed member. A coupling element is configured to extend between a first coupling opening and a second coupling opening and is configured to couple the adjustable member to the fixed member through the slot, wherein the coupling element is configured to contact at least one of the plurality of recesses in the slot. A barrier is formed between adjacent recesses that is configured to prevent the coupling element from moving along the slot axis.