Custom Security Fasteners With Converter Tool for Theft Deterrence

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional screws and bolts can be easily removed with standard tools, making it simple for thieves to access and steal valuable items, such as electrical panels and circuit breakers, which are often secured with these conventional fasteners.

Innovation Solution

The use of custom connectors with unconventional heads and matching custom converters, which require specialized tools to rotate and remove, thereby preventing unauthorized access and theft.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional screws or bolts are used to secure items, then the ease of installation and removal is improved, but the security against theft and unauthorized access deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installation and removalVSAvoidtheft and unauthorized access
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector head features an asymmetric, non-standard recess geometry that does not match conventional screwdriver or wrench shapes. This asymmetric design ensures that only the specifically designed converter tool can engage and rotate the connector, preventing unauthorized removal while maintaining controlled access for authorized personnel with the matching tool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the geometric parameters of the connector head interface by using unconventional angles, depths, and contour shapes that differ from standard fastener specifications. This parameter modification creates a unique engagement profile that only the corresponding converter tool can match, thereby securing items against theft while allowing authorized operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If custom connectors with unconventional heads are used, then the security against theft is improved, but the ease of operation and compatibility with standard tools deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetheft preventionVSAvoidcompatibility with standard tools
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The converter tool serves as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the non-standard connector head and standard tool interfaces. The converter engages with the unique recess in the connector head and provides a standardized interface (such as a hex or square drive) that can be operated with conventional ratchets or wrenches, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving enhanced security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system is segmented into distinct components: the custom connector head with its unique recess, the converter tool that interfaces with the recess, and the standard tool that operates the converter. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system compatibility and ease of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12241493B2Securement system and method
Publication Date: 2025.03.04 SPOOR CLAYTON
  • US12241493B2 patent drawing
  • US12241493B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for securing an item. Custom connectors which only couple to a custom converter can secure an item, deter its theft, and prevent unauthorized access. The custom connectors have a custom head which has a custom void. The custom void has a unique shape which matches and couples with a custom converter. A custom converter allows the custom connector to be manipulated. If desired, subsequently, when the item is in a more secure location, conventional screws can replace the item.