Interlocking Anti-Theft Clip with Locking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current anti-theft devices for securing merchandise at retail displays, such as those using tether cables, are vulnerable to theft as they can be easily cut, failing to provide a secure interlocking mechanism between the pedestal and the merchandise.
Innovation Solution
An anti-theft device featuring a clip with hooks and a base that includes a locking member which transitions between extended and retracted positions, allowing secure interlocking and unlocking, preventing unauthorized removal by misaligning the hooks with apertures, and utilizing a biasing element, cam, or electric motor for secure locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tether cables are used to connect the clip to the pedestal, then customers can remove the article for closer interaction, but the device becomes vulnerable to theft as the cable can be easily cut
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vulnerable tether cable component entirely and replaces it with a direct mechanical interlocking system. The hook on the clip engages with the locking member inside the pedestal base, eliminating the cable that could be cut. This extraction of the weak link resolves the security vulnerability while maintaining the ability to secure the merchandise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a locking member as an intermediary component between the hook and the pedestal interior. This locking member, which can be actuated by a cam mechanism or biasing element, serves as a mediator that provides secure engagement without requiring a vulnerable cable connection.
2Reliability
If a secure interlocking mechanism is implemented between the pedestal and the clip, then theft prevention is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the securing system into distinct functional segments: the hook on the clip, the aperture in the pedestal, and the locking member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply, while collectively providing secure interlocking. The locking member is further segmented into positions (locked and unlocked) that simplify the engagement and disengagement processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a cable that pulls the clip toward the pedestal, the patent inverts the approach by having the hook pass through the aperture and engage with the locking member from the opposite side. The locking member then prevents the hook from being pulled back through, creating security through inversion of the traditional cable-based approach.
3Reliability
If the locking member is always in the extended position to prevent hook realignment, then security is improved, but the ease of operation for authorized personnel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the locking member dynamic rather than static, allowing it to transition between an extended locked position and a retracted unlocked position. This dynamic capability enables the system to maintain security during normal operation while allowing authorized personnel to easily unlock and remove the clip when needed, resolving the contradiction between constant security and operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the locking member between two states: extended (locked) and retracted (unlocked). This parameter change allows the system to switch between security mode and operational mode, enabling both theft prevention and easy removal by authorized personnel without compromising either function.
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-theft device for securing an article of merchandise against unauthorized removal from a display counter. A clip securely holds the article of merchandise. The clip has a hook on a bottom surface thereof. A base has an aperture configured to receive the hook. When the hook is inserted into the base through the opening, the clip is shifted relative to the base such that the point of the hook resides underneath a top plate of the base. A locking member immobilizes the clip within the base preventing the hook from becoming realigned with the base. A key is used to retract the locking member to release the clip from the base.