Dispenser Magnetic Pin Latching for Secure Keyhole-Free Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensers for consumable products face security issues due to easily pickable or force-openable locks, and traditional robust locks are costly, necessitating a cost-effective and secure locking mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser system with an internal locking mechanism using ferrous pins that are magnetically actuated by a dispenser key from outside, allowing the door to open without external physical contact, providing enhanced security and hygiene by eliminating external keyholes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional robust locks are installed to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locks with a magnetic locking system. The locking mechanism uses magnets embedded in the door that interact with a magnetic strip on the frame, eliminating the need for complex mechanical lock components while achieving secure locking functionality at lower cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the door and frame. Instead of direct mechanical engagement, the magnetic field mediates the locking action, allowing for secure locking without the need for expensive mechanical lock components.
2Ease of operation
If traditional locks with external keyholes are used, then access control is achieved, but hygiene deteriorates due to dirt traps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the keyhole from the external surface and relocates the magnetic interaction interface to the interior of the dispenser. The door remains externally smooth and sealable, while the magnetic locking components are positioned inside, eliminating external dirt traps.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the key interact with the lock from the outside, the patent inverts the approach by having the magnetic locking mechanism engage from the inside. The door can be closed and sealed externally, with the magnetic locking action occurring internally, reversing the traditional lock/keyhole configuration.
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 offers secure and cost-effective access to the dispenser interior, reducing the risk of tampering and maintaining hygiene by keeping the locking mechanism internal, thus preventing dirt traps and unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
a dispenser key configured to magnetically move the one or more pins from the first pin position to the second pin position
Data Source
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AI summary
A dispenser comprising a body with a front side and a back side with the front side movably attached to the back side by a hinge, wherein the hinge includes pin receiving openings and the hinge is configured to move the front side between an open position and a closed position; and a locking device including pins and a pin housing for each of the pins and being configured to allow respective movement of the pins between a first pin position and a second pin position; and a dispenser key configured to magnetically move the pins from the first pin position to the second pin position to allow the front side to move from the closed position to the open position.