Gun Rack Locking Mechanism Using Encoded Signal Authentication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic gun racks can be compromised by unauthorized users through 'hot-wiring' by cutting power wires and providing an external power source to release the lock, allowing unauthorized access to the weapon.
Innovation Solution
A system that encodes a pattern in a signal to release the locking mechanism, which must be decoded and matched by a controller within a tamper-resistant container before allowing activation of the solenoid, using modulation on a power wire or wireless transmission, incorporating biometric data and various communication protocols to ensure secure access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple power wire connection is used to activate the solenoid, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security against hot-wiring is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an encoded signal as an intermediary between the power source and the solenoid. The controller receives power through the power wire but requires a separate encoded signal to activate the solenoid. This intermediary step prevents direct hot-wiring because simply providing power is insufficient - the encoded authentication signal is also required, thus maintaining ease of operation while improving security.
2Reliability
If an encoded signal with pattern recognition is implemented, then the security is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it receives power through the power wire, decodes the encoded signal, validates the pattern, and controls the solenoid activation. By making the controller multi-functional, the patent improves security through pattern recognition without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as a single component performs multiple critical roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple mechanical or direct electrical activation with an electronic encoding and decoding system. The encoded signal contains authentication information that must be decoded and validated before solenoid activation, substituting a complex mechanical key system with an electronic authentication mechanism that can be implemented through software logic in the controller.
3Reliability
If the controller is housed in a tamper resistant container, then the security is improved, but the ease of manufacture is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the gun rack system into distinct components: the tamper resistant container housing the controller, the power wire connection interface, the solenoid mechanism, and the encoded signal transmission system. This segmentation allows the tamper resistant container to be manufactured and tested as a separate security module, which can then be integrated into the overall system, improving security while managing manufacturing complexity through modular assembly.
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
Prevents unauthorized access by requiring a correct encoded signal to activate the locking mechanism, preventing hot-wiring attempts and ensuring secure retention of the gun within the rack.
Implementation Method 1
apply electrical current to a solenoid to release the lock on the gun rack
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a controller in communication with a transmission device. The system further includes a gun rack that includes a locking mechanism. The controller is configured to release the locking mechanism in response to receiving, from the transmission device via modulation on a power wire that powers the controller, a pattern that corresponds to a predetermined pattern.