Lottery Dispenser Security Shield Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lottery ticket dispensers lack a simple and efficient method to prevent unauthorized dispensing when unattended, as the dispensing slot can be easily accessed for theft.

Innovation Solution

A ticket dispensing device with a pivotally attached security shield that can be moved between open and closed conditions, combined with a lock assembly and securement means, including a prong and retaining member, to securely block the dispensing slot when locked.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the dispenser is left unattended, then accessibility is improved, but security deteriorates as customers can easily steal tickets through the dispensing slot

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidsecurity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The security shield is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing the system to adapt its security level based on whether an attendant is present. When the door is locked, the shield automatically blocks the dispensing slot; when the door is unlocked, the shield can be moved to allow ticket dispensing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The security shield is positioned to automatically block the dispensing slot before any unauthorized access can occur. The shield's initial position prevents ticket theft through the slot, and it only moves to an open position when the lock assembly is intentionally unlocked by an attendant with proper authorization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a security shield is added to block the dispensing slot, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The security shield is integrated with the existing door and lock assembly rather than being a separate system. The shield shares the same pivot attachment point and is controlled by the same lock mechanism, combining multiple security functions into a single unified structure that reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The security shield serves multiple functions: it blocks the dispensing slot to prevent theft, it provides a visual indicator of the dispenser's security state, and it works in conjunction with the lock assembly to create a layered security system. This multi-functionality justifies the added component by delivering multiple benefits from a single addition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the security shield is always in closed position, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as tickets cannot be dispensed

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidticket dispensing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The security shield transitions from a static barrier to a dynamic component that automatically changes position based on the door's lock state. The shield is spring-loaded or gravity-assisted to return to the closed blocking position whenever the door is locked, ensuring security is maintained without requiring manual intervention to reset the shield after each dispensing operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7565999B1Display and dispensing device with a security shield
Publication Date: 2009.07.28 SCHAFER SYST (2018) INC
  • US7565999B1 patent drawing
  • US7565999B1 patent drawing
  • US7565999B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A display and dispensing device for lottery-type tickets or the like that is securable to prevent the dispensing of the tickets when desired. The device includes a housing of box-like configuration having an open rear end, a door pivotally attached to the housing open end and a security shield pivotally attached to the door and being alternatively located in an open condition allowing said lottery tickets to be dispensed and a closed condition blocking the dispensing of said tickets.