Collapsible Lockbox Stand With Retractable Cable Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockbox devices for real estate properties are limited in their use, often requiring secure attachment to a specific location, making them difficult for real estate agents to find and access, and can cause damage to the property. They also pose risks of unauthorized entry and theft.
Innovation Solution
A lockbox stand with a collapsible post and base that includes a retractable cable for secure attachment to a property fixture, wheels for easy movement, and a biasing mechanism to encourage the post into an upright position, allowing for convenient and secure storage and access of a lockbox device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a classic lockbox device is attached to a door handle or fixture, then the spare key is securely stored, but the device causes damage to the property and is difficult to locate and access
Solution Approach 1:
The lockbox device is extracted from its traditional attachment point (door handle or fixture) and relocated to a freestanding base positioned near the property entrance. This removes the harmful attachment action while preserving the security function through the lockbox's inherent locking mechanism and code access system.
Solution Approach 2:
A retractable cable serves as an intermediary element between the lockbox stand and the property structure. The cable provides secure anchoring without direct attachment to vulnerable components, allowing the stand to remain stationary while avoiding damage to door handles or fixtures.
2Reliability
If a classic lockbox device is attached to a specific location, then the spare key is securely stored, but real estate agents spend substantial time searching for the device and may not find it
Solution Approach 1:
The lockbox stand incorporates visually distinctive features including a bright colored base and a welcoming sign with messages such as 'Welcome' or 'Welcome Home'. These visual cues make the device easily locatable from a distance while the lockbox compartment itself remains secure and code-protected.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is pre-positioned in a highly visible location near the property entrance before agents arrive. The welcoming sign is pre-attached to guide agents to the correct location, eliminating the need for agents to search for the device upon arrival.
3Ease of operation
If the lockbox stand is made portable with wheels, then it can be easily relocated, but it may be more vulnerable to theft or unauthorized removal
Solution Approach 1:
A retractable cable acts as an intermediary anchoring mechanism that connects the mobile stand to the property structure. The cable remains coiled and retracted during normal operation, allowing easy movement, but can be extended to secure the stand to a fixed structure, preventing theft or unauthorized removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand transitions from a static, permanently attached state to a dynamic, mobile state with wheels. This allows the stand to be easily repositioned for different properties or storage locations while maintaining security through the retractable cable anchoring system when needed.
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 provides a secure, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing method for real estate agents to access properties, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry and damage while allowing easy relocation and secure storage of the lockbox device.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism to encourage the post into an upright position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a lockbox stand for attaching a key-containing device with a lockable compartment, the lockbox stand including a base assembly and a post assembly connected by a connection assembly; the connection assembly provides a mechanism for extending and collapsing the post assembly such that, when collapsed, the post extends parallel to the ground and, when upright, the post extends perpendicular to the ground and portrays a sign with an inviting message welcoming visitors to the property, be they potential buyers or just friends or acquaintances visiting with the owners of the home.