Dual-Component Ground Anchor Locking Against Theft Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground anchors are easily removable from the ground, making anchored items susceptible to theft.
Innovation Solution
A lockable ground anchor with two cooperating components that are rotated in opposite directions and secured together with a locking device, such as a padlock, to prevent simultaneous removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single ground anchor is used, then it is easy to install and remove, but the anchored items become susceptible to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The ground anchor system is divided into two separate components: an outer anchor and an inner anchor. Each anchor can be independently installed and removed, but when combined with the locking mechanism, they work together to secure the anchored item. This segmentation allows for easy individual installation while providing security when both anchors are engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer anchor and inner anchor are merged through a locking mechanism that combines their functions into a single secure system. The locking mechanism integrates the two separate anchors so that they must both be engaged to secure the anchored item, and both must be disengaged to remove it. This merging provides security against theft while maintaining ease of operation through a simple locking and unlocking process.
2Device complexity
If a single ground anchor is used, then the device is simple, but it can be easily removed from the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor system is segmented into two independent anchors that can be installed separately. This segmentation allows for simple individual components while creating a more secure combined system that resists removal through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves as an intermediary element that connects the outer anchor and inner anchor. This intermediary component provides the resistance to removal by requiring specific actions (unlocking and rotating in opposite directions) to disengage the anchors, while maintaining simplicity in the overall device design.
3Reliability
If two cooperating components are used, then removal is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses two segmented components (outer anchor and inner anchor) that work together to prevent removal. Each component is simple in design, but their combination creates the security function. The segmentation allows for modular installation and maintenance while providing the necessary resistance to removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner anchor is nested within the outer anchor, creating a compact combined structure. This nesting arrangement reduces the overall space required and simplifies the combined design while maintaining the security function. The nested configuration allows both anchors to be engaged in a compact footprint, reducing the apparent complexity despite having two components.
4Reliability
If two anchor assemblies are locked together, then simultaneous rotation is prevented, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured to engage the outer and inner anchors in a specific sequence. During installation, the outer anchor is first engaged with the ground, then the inner anchor is engaged within the outer anchor. The locking mechanism is designed to automatically align and secure the two anchors in this predetermined sequence, preventing simultaneous rotation while simplifying the installation procedure through clear sequential steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary that mediates between the outer anchor and inner anchor. It provides a simple interface for engaging the two anchors in the correct sequence, preventing simultaneous rotation through its mechanical design. The intermediary locking mechanism translates the sequential installation actions into a secure combined state without requiring complex coordination during installation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention a lockable ground anchor configured to be placed into the ground and secured thereto, having two cooperating components that are rotated into the ground in opposite directions and then secured to each other with a locking device, thereby preventing removal by requiring both components to be rotated in the same direction while secured together.