Hinged License Plate Security Frame with Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing license plate security solutions are inadequate as they are easily breakable, cover the license numbers and stickers, or are not compliant with all state regulations, failing to effectively prevent theft and damage.
Innovation Solution
A license plate security frame with a solid inner back plate and a hinged outer front rim that traps the plate, using a cylinder lock and clear corner covers to protect stickers, while keeping the license numbers and background exposed, made from durable materials like ABS plastic or cast aluminum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solid security frame with locking mechanism is used, then protection against theft and damage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The security frame is divided into multiple functional components: an outer frame structure, an inner license plate holder, a hinge mechanism for opening, and a separate locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hinge mechanism as an intermediary element that connects the outer frame and inner holder, enabling controlled access to the license plate. This intermediary component provides a balanced solution between security (when locked) and accessibility (when opened), resolving the contradiction between protection and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If the license plate surface is covered for protection, then protection against damage is improved, but visibility for traffic enforcement cameras deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The security frame provides protection only at the boundaries and mounting points where the license plate is most vulnerable to damage, while leaving the central area with the license numbers and background completely exposed. This local application of protection maintains camera visibility while providing necessary structural protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective covering function is extracted from the entire license plate surface and applied only to specific protective elements: the outer frame structure and clear corner covers. This extraction ensures that the main surface remains visible to cameras while still providing protection where needed.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple screws are used to secure license plates, then ease of installation is improved, but protection against theft deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple security functions into a single integrated frame structure: the mounting screw coverage, the physical trapping of the license plate, and the locking mechanism all work together. This combination provides superior theft protection compared to simple screws while maintaining reasonable installation ease through the pre-assembled frame design.
Data Source
AI summary
A license plate security frame comprises a solid inner back plate that is secured to a vehicle and a outer front rim hinged to it that traps the license plate and covers the mounting screws. Hinges at the bottom allow the inner back plate and outer front rim to open like a clamshell, and a cylinder lock mounted at the top to the outer front rim engages a lock pin mounted to the inner back plate. Clear corner covers are included to protect any stickers on the caged-in license plate, and are attached inside the outer front rim in the appropriate corners. The main surface of the license plate including the license numbers and their background are exposed through the middle of the outer front rim.