Dynamic Magnetic Detacher for Controlled Security Tag Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security tag detachment systems, particularly those using magnetic locking mechanisms, are always active and require constant surveillance to prevent unauthorized use, as they can be improperly used to remove tags even when not monitored.
Innovation Solution
A security tag detacher system that includes a field source providing a first magnetic field to move a magnet from a non-detach to a detach position, allowing the magnet to unlock the tag only when powered, and an activation device with a processor to control the power supply, ensuring secure and controlled detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a permanent magnet is fixed within the detacher housing, then the magnetic locking mechanism can be disengaged by placing the tag proximate the magnetic detacher, but the detacher is always active and requires constant surveillance to prevent unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between a non-detach position (when not activated) and a detach position (when activated). This dynamic positioning enables the system to be inactive by default while remaining capable of activation when needed, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and prevention of unauthorized use.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent magnetic field is replaced with an electromagnet that requires electrical power to generate its magnetic field. This substitution allows the detacher to be turned on and off through electrical control, eliminating the need for constant physical surveillance while maintaining security against unauthorized use.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a permanent magnet is used in the detacher, then the magnetic locking mechanism can be disengaged without constant power supply, but the location of the detacher must be fixed or under constant surveillance
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet is replaced with an electromagnet that generates its magnetic field only when electrical power is supplied. This eliminates the need for constant surveillance of the detacher location, as the magnetic field is not continuously present. The system requires power supply and electrical control rather than physical surveillance, reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnet is activated periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. The magnetic field is generated only when the detacher needs to be activated for legitimate use, and can be turned off when not in use. This periodic activation eliminates the need for constant surveillance while maintaining the capability to detach tags when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the magnetic detacher is always active, then tag detachment can be performed at any time, but unauthorized use by thieves cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnetic field is replaced with an electromagnet controlled by a power supply and activation device. This allows the system to be activated only when authorized, preventing unauthorized use by thieves while maintaining adaptability for legitimate tag detachment operations. The electrical control system provides versatility in timing and conditions for activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The activation device with processor provides feedback control for the electromagnet power supply. The system can be activated only under specific conditions and can be deactivated when not needed, creating a feedback loop that prevents unauthorized use while maintaining adaptability for legitimate operations. The processor can monitor and control the activation state based on various inputs.
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 provides secure and controlled detachment of security tags, reducing the risk of unauthorized use by ensuring the magnet is only in the detach position when intentionally activated, thus minimizing safety hazards and electrical requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a field source arranged to provide a first magnetic field when power is applied to the field source
Implementation Method 2
a magnet arranged to provide a second magnetic field. The second magnetic field sufficient to unlock a security tag when the magnet is at the detach position
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided. The system includes a detacher. The detacher includes a field source. The field source is arranged to provide a first magnetic field when power is applied to the field source. The detacher further includes a magnet arranged to provide a second magnetic field. The magnet is movable from a non-detach position to a detach position when exposed to the first magnetic field. The second magnetic field is arranged to unlock a security tag when the magnet is at the detach location. The system further includes an activation device. The activation device includes a processor configured to trigger power to be supplied to the field source.