Banknote Storage Gate Lock Mechanism for Secure Inter-Device Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In banknote storage devices, malfunctioning or broken switching mechanisms can cause banknotes to be lost when the terminal end of the conveyance path is open, leading to incorrect routing of banknotes between connected devices.
Innovation Solution
A paper sheet storage device with a conveyance mechanism, a gate member that switches between storage and passing states, and a lock mechanism with a lock member and unlock member, where the lock member projects from the carry-out path and the unlock member projects from the carry-in path, allowing secure connection and preventing incorrect routing by ensuring the gate member remains locked in the storage state unless intentionally switched.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the gate member is made switchable between storage state and passing state, then the banknote storage device can route banknotes to different destinations, but the risk of malfunction or breakdown increases, causing banknotes to be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is engaged by default to prevent the gate member from moving, and can only be unlocked by a specific unlock member. This preliminary restriction prevents malfunction-induced routing errors before they can occur, while still allowing intentional switching when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate member is pre-configured in a locked state during device assembly and connection, ensuring that no unintended routing occurs before the system is properly activated. The unlock mechanism is prepared in advance to enable controlled switching only when appropriate.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal end of the conveyance path is open to outside for connection, then banknotes can be transferred between devices, but banknotes may be lost if the gate member malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism prevents the gate member from moving to the passing state unless intentionally unlocked, thereby preventing banknotes from being accidentally discharged to the carry-out path during connection operations. This protects against substance loss while maintaining connection capability.
3Reliability
If the lock mechanism is added to restrict gate member movement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member acts as an intermediary between the gate member and the unlock member, providing a simple mechanical restriction that requires minimal additional components. This intermediary mechanism achieves reliable control without introducing complex electronic or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is designed to be self-locking through its mechanical structure, where the lock member naturally restricts gate movement without requiring active control systems. The system serves itself by maintaining the locked state passively until an unlock action is applied.
Data Source
AI summary
A paper sheet storage device includes a storage unit, a conveyance mechanism including a carry-in path and a carry-out path, a gate member switched between a storage state and a passing state, a lock mechanism including a lock member which restricts a movement of the gate member, and an unlock member that unlocks a locked state. The unlock member is disposed so as to project from a side of one of the carry-in path and the carry-out path to outside of the paper sheet storage device. The lock member is disposed so as to project from a side of the other of the carry-in path and the carry-out path to the outside of the paper sheet storage device. When the paper sheet storage device is connected to another paper sheet storage device, the lock member is moved by the unlock member of the another paper sheet storage device.