Corner-Mounted Locking Mechanism for Thin Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The miniaturization of electronic devices has made it difficult to use traditional locking systems, as they struggle to accommodate the reduced thickness and proximity of security slots to the device's surface, requiring a more compact and sturdy locking mechanism that can prevent theft without disturbing the device's flat positioning.
Innovation Solution
A corner-mounted locking system with a compact housing and locking assembly that includes a main locking element and a movable locking element, secured by a thin metallic retainer, allowing for rotational motion conversion and secure attachment to the device's surface, enabling insertion into security slots as close as 2 mm above the surface without lifting the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional locking systems are used, then theft prevention is achieved, but the device cannot remain flat on the surface due to the locking mechanism's height
Solution Approach 1:
The locking head is positioned at the corner of the device rather than along the edge, utilizing the corner space to accommodate the locking mechanism. This dimensional repositioning allows the lock to engage with security slots located as close as 2mm from the surface while maintaining the device's flat positioning on the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are nested within a compact housing that integrates into the corner of the device. The main locking element and movable locking element are contained within the locking assembly body, which is secured to the housing at the corner region, maximizing space utilization.
2Length of moving object
If the locking mechanism is miniaturized to fit thin devices, then device compatibility is improved, but locking strength and sturdiness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a thin metallic retainer (such as spring steel or beryllium copper alloy) that provides high strength-to-weight ratio. This material selection enables the compact locking assembly to maintain sufficient locking strength despite the reduced size required for thin devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable locking element serves multiple functions: it engages with the security slot to prevent device removal, provides tension through its spring material properties, and can be actuated by the driver mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single compact component to achieve robust locking in a miniaturized form.
3Ease of operation
If the security slot is positioned closer to the device surface, then access is improved, but traditional locks cannot be inserted without lifting the device
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning the locking head at the corner of the device, the locking mechanism gains vertical clearance that is not available when approaching from the edge. This corner positioning allows the lock to engage with security slots located as close as 2mm from the surface without requiring the device to be lifted.
4Volume of moving object
If a compact locking assembly is used, then space utilization is improved, but the locking mechanism may be more vulnerable to manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The use of spring steel or beryllium copper alloy for the retainer and locking elements provides high strength and resistance to deformation. These materials maintain their elastic properties and structural integrity even in the compact dimensions required for thin devices, making the locking mechanism resistant to manipulation attempts.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for computer security has housing comprising a bottom wall, at least one side wall and a front wall with a corner region defined adjacent to both the bottom wall and the at least one side wall. A locking assembly comprises a locking assembly body holding at least two locking elements including a main locking element and a movable locking element, both said locking elements being supported by the locking assembly body, and the main locking element extending from and away from the locking assembly body at the front wall of the lock housing. A driver is coupled to the movable locking element, configured to selectively move the movable locking element in frontwise and rearwise directions, and controlled by a locking mechanism. The locking assembly is secured to the housing at the corner region thereof, with the locking elements located directly adjacent both the bottom wall and the at least one side wall.