Deployable Bank Security Barrier for Discreet Personnel Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security devices for protecting service personnel, such as bank staff and cashiers, are often cumbersome and create an unwelcoming atmosphere, leading to reduced customer comfort and potential loss of business, as they fail to provide a rapid and discreet means of creating a physical barrier against potential robbers.
Innovation Solution
A rapidly deployable physical barrier system, including bullet-resistant panels or inflatable barriers, that can be stored inconspicuously and quickly deployed using actuation mechanisms or pressurized fluids, with optional additional security features like cameras, alarms, and dye packs, to create a secure environment without obstructing normal business operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent physical barrier security devices are installed, then service personnel protection is improved, but customer comfort and business atmosphere deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static permanent barriers to dynamic deployable barriers. The security panel remains concealed during normal operations and only deploys when triggered by a sensor detecting a threat, allowing the system to adapt between two states: open for customer service and closed for security protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by concealing the security panel within the counter structure itself. The panel is stored in a hidden compartment or recessed area of the counter, allowing it to be nested within the existing furniture rather than adding a separate external barrier that would obstruct customer interaction.
2Reliability
If permanent physical barrier security devices are installed, then service personnel protection is improved, but business transactions and relationship building are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic deployment mechanism allows the security panel to remain retracted during normal transactions, eliminating interference with customer service and relationship building. The panel only activates when a threat is detected, ensuring business productivity is maintained while protection remains available.
Solution Approach 2:
The security system operates periodically rather than continuously - the panel deploys only when triggered by a sensor detecting suspicious behavior or threats. This periodic activation ensures protection is provided when needed while minimizing disruption to ongoing business transactions during normal periods.
3Reliability
If permanent physical barrier security devices are installed, then service personnel protection is improved, but the institution appears to anticipate routine criminal activity creating an unwelcoming atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the security panel within the counter structure, the system remains invisible during normal operations, preventing the creation of an unwelcoming atmosphere. The concealed storage location allows the panel to be present for protection without being visually apparent to customers, thus avoiding the perception of anticipating criminal activity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent describes panels that can change appearance or become transparent when not in use, allowing the security device to blend with the counter surface or become visually imperceptible. This capability enables the panel to provide protection while maintaining an inviting appearance during normal business hours.
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 system effectively protects service personnel by creating a secure barrier while maintaining a welcoming customer environment, reducing the risk of robbery and potential business loss by allowing for swift and discreet deployment of security measures.
Implementation Method 1
the panel is moved into position using a deployment mechanism such as an actuator or actuation cylinder with a source of pressurized fluid
Implementation Method 2
In order to inflate the barrier quickly a source of compressed air may be used or a pyrotechnic material similar to those used when deploying air-bags
Implementation Method 3
a pyrotechnic material similar to those used when deploying air-bags
Implementation Method 4
In some embodiments, the inflatable barrier may additionally or alternatively be filled with an expanding foam. In certain embodiments, the expanding foam will harden or cure rapidly, resulting in a solid physical barrier.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of systems, methods, and devices for protecting service personnel by deploying a physical barrier are described. Further embodiments describe additional security features such as lights, sirens, cameras, electronic locks, timers, and/or notifying security personnel or local law enforcement when the system is activated.