Magnetic Anchor for Portable Computing Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing portability and concealment of portable computer units have heightened the risk of theft, necessitating effective antitheft measures to prevent unauthorized relocation.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic anchor system is attached to the portable computing unit, utilizing ferromagnetic elements and a switchable permanent magnet arrangement to securely fasten the unit to a surface, with an optional ridge formation to prevent sliding, and a cable to a secured location, allowing for selective attachment and detachment to prevent unauthorized movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical locking systems are used to secure portable computing units, then the security against unauthorized relocation is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a magnetic field-based anchoring system. The magnetic anchor generates a magnetic field that interacts with ferromagnetic material in the computing unit, providing secure attachment without mechanical components. This substitution simplifies the device structure while maintaining security effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, distribution, polarity) to control the anchoring force. By adjusting magnetic field parameters rather than mechanical dimensions, the system achieves variable security levels and easy operation. The magnetic field can be dynamically controlled to provide strong anchoring when needed and release easily when authorization is given.
2Reliability
If mechanical locking systems are used to secure portable computing units, then the security against unauthorized relocation is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical locking operations with magnetic field control. The magnetic anchor can be attached and detached by controlling the magnetic field rather than manipulating mechanical components, significantly improving ease of operation. Authorized users can simply activate or deactivate the magnetic field through electronic control, eliminating the need for keys, codes, or manual manipulation of mechanical parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of the magnetic field to enable easy operation. The magnetic anchoring force can be dynamically adjusted or switched on/off based on authorization signals, allowing rapid attachment and detachment. This dynamic control transforms a static mechanical locking system into a flexible, easily operable magnetic system responsive to electronic commands.
3Reliability
If ferromagnetic material is embedded in the computing unit surface, then the magnetic anchoring effectiveness is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ferromagnetic material into discrete particles or small elements distributed across the surface rather than requiring a continuous, precisely positioned layer. This segmentation approach reduces manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining effective magnetic interaction, as the magnetic field can interact with multiple distributed particles simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a porous or particulate ferromagnetic layer that can be applied more easily than solid, continuous ferromagnetic material. The porous structure allows for easier manufacturing and application while providing sufficient ferromagnetic content for effective magnetic anchoring. The distributed nature of porous materials reduces the precision needed compared to solid blocks requiring exact positioning.
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
The magnetic anchor effectively secures portable computing units to a surface, providing resistance against theft by creating a strong magnetic field for attachment and minimizing the risk of sliding, thus safeguarding against unauthorized relocation.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic anchor (114) can be attachable to a surface area (111) of a portable computing unit (110)
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic anchor 114 can include an arrangement for a plurality of ferroelectric elements
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic anchor that is attachable to a computing unit via a magnetic field. The magnetic anchor further includes a locking mechanism that enables its attachment/detachment to a surface area of the computing unit—and further connects to a cable that is fastened to a secured location.