Expandable Collapsible Safe for Locker Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Personal lockers in public and storage areas are prone to theft due to easily breakable lock mechanisms and shared usage, lacking enhanced security for contents.
Innovation Solution
An expandable-collapsible safe with modular enclosures, an adjustment mechanism, and a locking mechanism that allows the safe to fit various locker sizes and shapes, featuring tension bars and a locking bar with a hasp for secure expansion and collapse, and a frictional fit to prevent removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a common lock mechanism is used to secure personal lockers, then the locker can be easily opened and accessed, but the security of contents is compromised due to ease of breaking into
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested safe structure where an inner safe is placed inside an outer safe, creating multiple layers of security. The inner safe contains the actual valuables while the outer safe provides additional protection. This nesting principle resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of access (the outer safe can be opened regularly) while significantly improving security (an attacker must break through multiple layers to reach contents).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic locking mechanisms including movable locking bars, sliding doors, and adjustable tension bars that can be engaged or disengaged based on security requirements. The locking system transitions between locked and unlocked states through mechanical movement rather than simple key insertion, making it more resistant to forced entry while still allowing legitimate users easy access through the combination lock mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If personal lockers are shared between multiple users, then resource utilization is improved, but privacy and security are compromised due to lack of exclusive access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage space into segmented compartments within the safe structure. Each user can be assigned specific compartments or sections, allowing multiple users to share the same safe while maintaining privacy for individual items. The segmentation is achieved through internal dividers and multiple storage chambers that can be independently accessed or secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a combination lock system that requires pre-set codes for access. Users can establish their own access codes in advance, allowing them to securely store items in shared lockers without revealing contents to other users. The preliminary setting of unique access codes ensures that even in a shared environment, each user maintains exclusive control over their specific items.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-size safe is used in storage areas, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but the safe cannot adapt to different locker sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an expandable and collapsible safe structure with adjustable sides and modular components. The safe can be expanded to fit larger lockers or collapsed to fit smaller spaces through telescoping panels and adjustable support mechanisms. This dynamic structure allows the same safe unit to adapt to various locker dimensions while maintaining a relatively simple base manufacturing process compared to creating multiple fixed-size models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the safe into modular sections that can be independently adjusted or reconfigured. The segmented structure includes separate wall panels, adjustable shelves, and independent locking mechanisms that can be arranged to fit different spatial configurations. This modularity enables the safe to adapt to various locker sizes and shapes while keeping each individual component simple to manufacture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an expandable-collapsible safe structure is implemented, then adaptability to different locker sizes is improved, but device complexity increases due to adjustment and locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic expansion and collapse mechanism using spring-loaded tension bars and movable support legs. These components automatically adjust to maintain structural integrity during expansion and collapse operations, reducing the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms. The dynamic system allows the safe to transition between sizes while maintaining security through automated locking engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs self-adjusting mechanisms where the safe structure automatically configures itself during expansion or collapse. The tension bars and support legs are designed to engage with corresponding receptacles automatically, and the locking mechanisms engage without manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity while maintaining high adaptability to different locker sizes.
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 safe provides enhanced security by adapting to different locker sizes, preventing easy removal, and ensuring privacy through secure locking and expansion mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a pulling force is applied to the first and second enclosures to expand the expandable-collapsible safe
Implementation Method 2
a frictional fit to prevent removal
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable-collapsible safe, comprising a first enclosure, a second enclosure, a door that is movable between an open position and a closed position, an adjustment mechanism adapted to move the first and second enclosures between a collapsed position and an expanded position, and a locking mechanism adapted to lock the door in the closed position.