Baffled Ballot Depository with Stabilizing Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ballot receptacles are vulnerable to tampering, as ballots can be shaken out through the entry slot, and existing solutions like spring-biased flaps complicate ballot insertion and lack effective security measures.
Innovation Solution
A baffled ballot depository design featuring a slot with a base frame, stabilizing member, and slot obstructing member, where the stabilizing member is supported by multiple guides, deflects inserted ballots and blocks withdrawal paths, using a closure system with a flange and seal to secure the slot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional ballot box with an entry slot is used, then ballots can be easily inserted, but ballots can be shaken out through the entry slot
Solution Approach 1:
A baffle component is introduced as an intermediary element between the entry slot and the ballot storage area. The baffle includes a deflecting surface that redirects ballots into the receptacle and a blocking surface that prevents withdrawal, thereby mediating between easy insertion and secure retention without requiring complex mechanisms
2Reliability
If a spring-biased hinged flap is mounted below the entry slot to block tampering, then ballot security is improved, but the difficulty of inserting ballots increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the blocking function from a complex spring-biased hinged flap mechanism and implements it through a simple rigid baffle component with specific geometric surfaces. The deflecting surface guides ballots inward while the blocking surface prevents withdrawal, achieving security without the mechanical complexity that hinders easy ballot insertion
3Reliability
If a rigid cover disc with entry slot is provided on a flexible ballot bag, then ballot security is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The baffle component merges multiple security functions into a single integrated element. The deflecting surface, blocking surface, and stabilizing surfaces are combined in one rigid component that attaches to the flexible ballot bag, providing comprehensive security without requiring multiple separate mechanisms or complex assemblies
Data Source
AI summary
A ballot depository is provided having a baffle which includes a base frame engaging member, a stabilizing member, and a slot obstructing member. In a preferred form, the stabilizing member is supported by at least one of a slot guide, a base frame guide, or a trough, preferably supported by two of the three, and most preferably supported by all three.