ATM Anchoring Device with Spring-Driven Drop Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current anchoring systems for self-service terminals, such as ATMs, are vulnerable to theft by backhoe loaders due to excessive force breaking anchoring bolts, poor grip in sandy soil, incorrect concrete mix design, and rigid assemblies that facilitate lifting and impact-induced bolt breakage.

Innovation Solution

A device featuring a carbon steel plated box with a pre-cast concrete lower column, load hoisting straps, and spring-driven pins that absorb impact, allowing the anchoring plate to release and cause the ATM to drop when lifted beyond 3 mm, preventing full removal and enhancing resistance against backhoe loader raids.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rigid anchoring assembly is used, then anchoring strength is improved, but susceptibility to impact-induced bolt breakage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanchoring strengthVSAvoidimpact-induced bolt breakage

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a cushioning element between the anchoring bolt and the terminal to absorb impact forces before they reach the bolt. This beforehand cushioning prevents the bolt from breaking under sudden impacts while maintaining strong anchoring during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the anchoring system by introducing a compliant element that can deform under impact. This parameter change allows the system to transition from a rigid, impact-sensitive state to a flexible, impact-resistant state while maintaining anchoring strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If anchoring bolts are used to secure terminals, then anchoring capability is improved, but vulnerability to shearing and tensile failure increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanchoring capabilityVSAvoidresistance to shearing and tensile failure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cushioning element is positioned to absorb excessive forces before they can cause shearing or tensile failure of the anchoring bolt. This beforehand cushioning protects the bolt from forces that exceed its design limits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a flexible cushioning element that can deform to absorb excessive forces. This flexible component protects the rigid anchoring bolt from forces that would cause shearing or tensile failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Ease of manufacture

If conventional anchoring systems are used, then installation simplicity is improved, but effectiveness against backhoe loader thefts deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoideffectiveness against backhoe loader thefts

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring system is segmented into distinct components: the anchoring bolt, the cushioning element, and the terminal mounting structure. This segmentation allows for easier installation while providing enhanced protection against backhoe loader thefts through the shock-absorbing cushioning element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cushioning element is pre-installed in the anchoring system to absorb impact forces from backhoe loaders before they can damage the terminal or cause the anchoring bolt to fail.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 provides enhanced resistance against backhoe loader thefts, even on sandy soil, by ensuring the ATM remains anchored and resistant to impacts, effectively thwarting theft attempts by triggering a programmed drop mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

spring-driven pins that absorb impact

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10746345B2Device for anchoring and protecting self-service terminals and vaults in general

Publication Date: 2020.08.18 TECH BANCARIA SA

AI summary

“DEVICE FOR ANCHORING AND PROTECTING SELF-SERVICE TERMINALS AND VAULTS IN GENERAL”, developed for application on self-service bank terminals (ATMs), as well as cash dispensing equipment, ATM recyclers, recycler vaults and general vaults, as defense against frequent theft in which the equipment is fully displaced using backhoe loaders, said device basically comprising a box (2) and a vertical and central lower column (3), four bearings (6), each including a strap (7) and, below said box (2), a laminate support panel (21), partially vented and including vertical setting screws (5) for height adjustment; in addition, pins (14) driven by springs (16) are provided, said pins (14) being released when the self-service terminal (ATM) is lifted at least 3 mm from the ground, releasing said equipment anchoring plate (15) and, consequently, causing said ATM to drop down inside the metallic box (2) and providing, therefore, increased defense against criminal raids using backhoe loaders, even on sandy soils, with said device being capable of moving downwards at an attempt of lifting the equipment (ATM).