Breakaway Catch Mechanism for Secure Emergency Access Doors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secure storage solutions for medications and regulated products face challenges such as lack of security and traceability, resource intensity, and the need for emergency access without proper credentials.
Innovation Solution
An access control system with a catch, latch, memory device, sensors, actuator, and communication interface that authenticates credentials and provides secure, traceable, and space-efficient storage, allowing emergency access through a breakaway mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) are used to control access to regulated products, then security and traceability are improved, but cost and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The access control assembly integrates multiple functional components (latch, actuator, sensor, credential interface, communication interface) into a compact unit that can be mounted on existing enclosed spaces like cabinets and drawers. This nested integration allows the system to provide ADC-level security without requiring a full-sized automated dispensing cabinet, thereby reducing space occupation while maintaining security.
2Volume of stationary object
If existing enclosed spaces such as drawers, cabinets, and carts are used to store and dispense medications, then space occupation is reduced, but security and traceability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The access control assembly is designed as a universal solution that can be mounted on various types of enclosed spaces including cabinets, drawers, and carts. The system provides multiple functions: credential verification, latch control, access monitoring, and emergency breakaway capability. This multi-functionality enables existing enclosed spaces to achieve ADC-level security without requiring specialized equipment, thus improving security while maintaining space efficiency.
3Reliability
If existing enclosed spaces with security features are used, then security is improved, but resource intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system is segmented into modular components: a credential interface for authentication, a latch mechanism for physical security, a sensor for monitoring, an actuator for automated latch operation, and a communication interface for network connectivity. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function efficiently, reducing overall system complexity and resource requirements compared to integrated automated dispensing cabinets while maintaining comprehensive security features.
4Ease of operation
If conventional latch mechanisms are used for enclosure access, then ease of operation is improved, but security and traceability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces conventional purely mechanical latch mechanisms with an electromechanical system. The actuator electronically controls the latch engagement and disengagement based on credential verification. Sensors automatically detect latch position and door open/close events, providing traceability without requiring manual intervention. This substitution maintains ease of operation through automated control while adding security and traceability features.
Data Source
AI summary
A breakaway catch includes an anchor portion configured to secure to an inner surface of the enclosure, and a catch module configured to be removably affixed to the anchor portion. The breakaway portion is detachably coupled to the catch module and configured to interface with a latch member to secure the access door of the enclosure in a locked state, wherein the breakaway portion is configured to detach from the catch module responsive to engagement of an instrument with the breakaway portion and while the latch member is interfaced with the breakaway portion to secure the access door. When the breakaway portion is detached from the catch module, the latch member is released from securing the access door such as to place the access door in an unlocked state and provide access to the enclosure.