Document Storage Pouch With Irreversible Flexible-Arm Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secure storage containers for bank notes are expensive, not adequately tamper-proof, and have mechanisms that can trap fingers or damage nails, with the plunger mechanism being clumsy and accessible money still being vulnerable to theft.
Innovation Solution
A secure storage apparatus with a planar cover plate and receptacle frame that uses elongate flexible arms to irreversibly lock the cover plate into a closed position, featuring a male and female member interaction to prevent access, and a frame design that allows for easy manufacturing and integration with specific devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rigid box container with plunger mechanism is used, then storage capacity is provided, but the mechanism can trap fingers and damage nails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical plunger mechanism with a cover plate system that uses flexible arms to engage with the frame. This substitution eliminates the harmful trapping mechanism while maintaining the closing function through a different mechanical approach involving the flexible arms bending and engaging with the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters by using flexible arms that can bend and deform during engagement, rather than rigid plunger components. This parameter change allows the locking mechanism to be less abrupt and less likely to trap fingers or damage nails during operation.
2Ease of operation
If a slotted barrier with plunger mechanism is used, then bank notes can be inserted, but money is still accessible and can be fished out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the closure system into distinct components: the cover plate with flexible arms and the frame with corresponding engagement structures. This segmentation allows for a more secure interlocking mechanism that prevents access to the contents, addressing the tamper-proofing requirement while maintaining operational ease through the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved or angled surfaces in the flexible arms and frame engagement structures, which allow for smooth insertion and closing motions while preventing easy removal or access to contents. The curved geometry facilitates ease of operation during closing while providing security during storage.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to prevent access, then security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function with the cover plate and frame structures themselves, rather than adding separate complex locking components. The flexible arms are integrated into the cover plate assembly, and the engagement features are built into the frame design, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining security through the combined structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible arms that can be formed as thin, flexible components rather than rigid, complex locking mechanisms. These flexible arms provide sufficient security through their ability to bend and engage with the frame, while being easier and less expensive to manufacture compared to complex rigid locking systems.
4Reliability
If a cover plate system with flexible arms is used, then tamper-proofing is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the flexible arms and frame engagement structures to serve multiple functions: providing the locking mechanism, guiding the cover plate movement, and ensuring proper alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining enhanced tamper-proofing capabilities.
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 apparatus provides enhanced security by preventing unauthorized access and simplifies manufacturing while ensuring the cover plate cannot be easily removed, thus enhancing tamper-proofing and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
The lock or locking means comprises at least one elongate flexible arm which is configured to flex in the direction of the plane of the cover plate, e.g. as the cover plate is moved towards the closed position on the frame.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for securely retaining documents, the apparatus (1) comprises a substantially planar cover plate (4) and a receptacle, the receptacle comprising a frame (3) and a pouch secured to the frame (3), the frame (3) comprising an opening (O) to access the pouch, the cover plate (4) being configured in use to cover the opening (O) of the frame (3) and to prevent access to the interior of the receptacle when the cover plate (4) is in a closed position, the apparatus comprises (1) a lock (5, 6) configured to irreversibly lock the cover plate (4) in the closed position on the receptacle, wherein the lock (5, 6) comprises at least one elongate flexible arm (6) which is configured to flex in the direction of the plane of the cover plate (4) as the cover plate (4) is moved towards the closed position on the frame.