Convertible security apparatus and method of use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security apparatuses for portable electronic devices require proprietary keys or biometric sensors, which are often lost, stolen, or expensive, and do not accommodate all device sizes, necessitating frequent key replacements and updates due to employee turnover.
Innovation Solution
A convertible security apparatus with a removably coupled anchoring member and security assembly, featuring a lockable extension assembly that allows secure attachment and detachment without tools, adjustable to fit various device sizes, using securing elements and engagement members for easy locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proprietary keys or biometric sensors are used for security apparatus, then security function is improved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The security apparatus enables employees to unlock the device themselves by simply pressing a button on the extension assembly, eliminating the need for proprietary keys or biometric sensors. The system serves itself by using the physical act of extension insertion as the authentication mechanism, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining security functionality.
2Reliability
If proprietary keys are used for security apparatus, then security function is improved, but loss and replacement frequency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates physical keys entirely by using a button-press mechanism on the extension assembly that activates the locking mechanism. Since no separate key is needed, employees cannot lose or misplace authentication tools, completely resolving the key loss problem while maintaining security functionality.
3Reliability
If fixed security apparatus is used, then security function is improved, but adaptability to different device sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The extension assembly is designed to be adjustable and reconfigurable, allowing it to adapt to different device sizes and configurations. The extension can be extended or repositioned to accommodate various portable electronic devices, maintaining security functionality while providing versatility across different device form factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The security apparatus is divided into separate components including the anchoring member and the extension assembly that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the extension to be adjusted to different locations and orientations to secure various device sizes while maintaining the core security function.
4Reliability
If tool-based locking mechanism is used, then security function is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the extension assembly itself with a button that the employee presses directly on the device. This eliminates the need for separate tools or keys, making the locking operation as simple as pressing a button while maintaining secure locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the extension assembly, combining the security function with the device extension. The button on the extension directly activates the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate tools and simplifying the operation to a single integrated action.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of securing a portable electronic device includes structuring an anchoring member to be coupled to a display surface and to a security assembly. Structuring the security assembly to include a guide with one or more securing element engagement members, a first extension assembly and a support with a lock. Structuring at least two extensions to couple to the support and at least one holder to couple to the at least two extensions. Structuring a second extension assembly to couple to the guide and include a holder. When unlocked, the first extension assembly is moved along the guide in a direction away from the second extension assembly. When locked, the security assembly is coupled to the anchoring member and the first extension assembly advances towards the second extension assembly to retain the portable electronic device but is inhibited from advancing in the direction away from the second extension assembly.