Bulk Amorphous Alloy Fastener Tamper-Resistant Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking fasteners are vulnerable to tampering, particularly in electronic devices, as they can be easily altered or broken, lacking effective mechanisms to prevent physical tampering or render the device non-functional if tampered with.
Innovation Solution
A tamper-resistant fastener featuring a head portion and a bulk-solidifying amorphous alloy interlock portion that forms a permanent interlock with the substrate during the fastening process, utilizing the unique properties of bulk-solidifying amorphous alloys to enhance security and prevent removal without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional metals and alloys are used for fasteners, then ease of manufacture is improved, but tamper resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by using bulk amorphous alloy instead of conventional crystalline metals. This material parameter change provides superior strength and elasticity while enabling tamper-resistant properties, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and tamper resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener uses a composite structure combining conventional metal for the head portion with bulk amorphous alloy for the interlock portion. This composite approach allows manufacturing benefits from conventional materials while gaining tamper resistance from the amorphous alloy interlock portion
2Reliability
If bulk amorphous alloy is used for the interlock portion, then tamper resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is segmented into two portions: a head portion made of conventional metal and an interlock portion made of bulk amorphous alloy. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using bulk amorphous alloy specifically for the interlock portion where tamper resistance is most critical, while the head portion uses conventional metal that is easier to manufacture. This localized application of advanced material reduces overall manufacturing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relates to a fastener having a head portion and an interlock portion comprising a bulk solidifying amorphous alloy comprising a metal alloy. The fastener could further have a screw portion. Other embodiments relate to methods of making and using the fasteners.