Tamper-Evident Closure Element With Non-Contact Tension Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure elements for seals, such as electronic seals, fail to reliably detect manipulation, as unauthorized access can go undetected if the electronics are compromised, leading to undetectable changes in the random code or no new code generation.
Innovation Solution
A closure element with a tension element that is tensioned in the closed state and monitored by a non-contact sensor, which includes a spring element and a sensor like a magnetic field sensor or light barrier to detect changes in tension state, ensuring reliable detection of manipulation through positional changes or magnetic field alterations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic seals use random code generation to detect tampering, then tampering detection capability is provided, but reliability deteriorates when electronics are compromised or manipulated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electronic random code generation system with a mechanical tension element system. The closure element uses a tension element (such as a spring or elastic element) that is mechanically tensioned when the seal is closed. This mechanical system is monitored by a sensor that detects the tension state without contact, providing a tamper-evident mechanism that does not rely on vulnerable electronics for the core security function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary between the mechanical tension element and the monitoring system. The sensor detects the tension state of the element without direct contact, allowing the system to monitor the mechanical state while isolating the electronic components from direct interaction with the mechanical security element. This intermediary approach protects against electronic manipulation while maintaining detection capability.
2Reliability
If non-contact sensors are used to monitor tension state, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element integrates multiple functions into unified components. The tension element serves both as the closing mechanism (providing the force to secure the seal) and as the monitored object (providing the tension state information). The sensor simultaneously detects the tension state and triggers the alarm function when tampering is detected. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Reliability
If a tension element is introduced for monitoring, then tamper detection capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is designed as a single-use, disposable component. After the seal is applied and the tension element is tensioned, the element remains in its tensioned state throughout transport. If tampering occurs or the seal is opened, the tension element cannot be restored to its original state, providing permanent tamper evidence. This disposable approach simplifies manufacturing and assembly, as the element does not need to be designed for repeated use or complex restoration mechanisms.
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 solution enables reliable detection of manipulation attempts by monitoring the tension state of the closure element, even if the electronics are compromised, providing a secure and tamper-evident mechanism for seals.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor is, inter alia, a magnetic field sensor, such as a reed contact, a Hall sensor or a TMR sensor
Implementation Method 2
In order to tension the tension element, one or more spring elements are particularly suitable
Data Source
Figure 1a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
Figure 4c~4e
AI summary
The invention relates to a closure element, having a tension element that is tensioned in the closed state, wherein the tensioned state thereof can be detected contactlessly via a sensor. The invention also relates to a seal comprising a closure element of this type, in particular an electronic seal. The invention further relates to, inter alia, a method for monitoring the tensioned state of the tension element and a method for monitoring a seal.