Lockable Interface Mechanism for Large Aperture Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing security systems fail to effectively secure items with larger apertures or openings, as they do not support engagement with such features, leading to increased theft and unauthorized use of valuable portable articles.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes an interface mechanism with anchors that can be deployed within an interface aperture, secured by a lock, and a traveler mechanism that allows for blocking and non-blocking positions to resist removal or insertion, ensuring the anchors remain engaged with the item.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing security devices are used, then smaller items can be secured, but larger apertures or openings cannot be engaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaperture engagement capabilityVSAvoidsecurity effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The interface mechanism is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion that interfaces with the aperture, an extension that engages with the lock, and anchors that secure to the item. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively enabling secure attachment to items with larger apertures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by extending the interface mechanism beyond the aperture plane. The extension protrudes from the body and engages with the lock in a perpendicular dimension, while anchors extend in another direction to secure to the item. This multi-dimensional engagement enables secure attachment where traditional two-dimensional solutions fail.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If anchors are deployed to resist removal, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance to removalVSAvoidinterface mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple security functions are merged into a single integrated interface mechanism. The body, extension, and anchors work together as one unified component that can be inserted and locked in a single operation, rather than requiring separate components for each security function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface mechanism is designed to be self-securing through its geometric configuration. Once inserted into the aperture and engaged with the lock, the anchors automatically extend and secure to the item without requiring additional fastening operations or complex locking procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Stability of the object's composition

If a lock engages the interface mechanism, then the interface mechanism is confined to maintain anchors in deployed position, but ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchor position stabilityVSAvoidlocking and unlocking operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The extension serves as an intermediary element between the lock and the anchors. It transmits the locking action from the lock to the anchors, confining them in their deployed positions without requiring direct mechanical connection. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8640510B1Interface member for lock system and method
Publication Date: 2014.02.04 ACCO BRANDS CORP
  • US8640510B1 patent drawing
  • US8640510B1 patent drawing
  • US8640510B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for securing an interface mechanism within an aperture is disclosed. The system may include an interface mechanism comprising a body portion, extension, anchor, and traveler. The extension may extend from the body portion and have a traveler aperture. The anchor may selectively move through a range of motion with respect to the body portion. The range of motion may include one or more extended positions of the anchor. The traveler may be positioned within the traveler aperture. The traveler selectively moving through a range of motion with respect to the extension. The range of motion of the traveler may contain one or more blocking positions wherein the traveler confines the anchor to one or more extended positions. The system may further include a lock engaging the extension and confining the traveler to one or more blocking positions.