Banknote Transporter Tamper-Proof Lid Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tamper-proof banknote carriers can be compromised by flexing the lid and carrier apart without leaving evidence of tampering, especially when made from thin or flexible plastic materials, which allows notes to be removed without detection.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a locking mechanism with vertically extending flanges or latches that provide resistance or a permanent indication of flexure, preventing the lid and carrier from being separated vertically, ensuring that any attempt to access the notes results in visible evidence of tampering, such as broken flanges or a permanently fixed lid that requires destruction of the bag for access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the lid and carrier are made from thin or flexible plastic materials, then the carrier becomes lighter and more recyclable, but the lid and carrier can be flexed apart without leaving evidence of tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the engagement mechanism between lid and carrier. Instead of relying solely on horizontal sliding engagement, vertically extending flanges or latches are incorporated that engage in the vertical direction, preventing flexing apart while maintaining thin-walled construction
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement mechanism is segmented into multiple vertical flanges or latches distributed along the lid and carrier interface. This segmentation provides multiple discrete engagement points that collectively prevent tampering while allowing each individual element to remain thin and flexible
2Reliability
If thicker or more rigid materials are used for the lid and carrier, then resistance to tampering is improved, but the weight increases and recyclability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing structural reinforcement only where needed for security - specifically in the vertically extending flanges or latches at the engagement interface. The rest of the lid and carrier walls can remain thin and flexible, achieving security without overall thickening
3Ease of manufacture
If the lid and carrier are made thinner, then ease of recycling is improved, but flexibility allows them to be prized apart without evidence of tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the reduced thickness by adding vertical engagement elements that extend upward from the carrier or downward from the lid. This vertical dimension provides mechanical resistance to prizing apart that would otherwise be provided by material thickness alone
Data Source
AI summary
A banknote transporter includes a carrier and a lid. The carrier is adapted to receive bank notes and has side channels into which the lid can be slid to prevent access to the bank notes in the carrier. The side channels of the carrier engage with side portions of the lid, at least a component of the engagement providing resistance to or permanent indication of flexure or relative separation of the lid and carrier in the vertical direction.