Magnetic Container Security System with Reed Switch Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security systems for containers, particularly those in transit or storage, face challenges due to reliance on external power sources and lack of reliable access to power grids, making them vulnerable to theft and vandalism, especially in remote or poorly secured locations.
Innovation Solution
A self-sufficient security system for unpowered containers, featuring a battery pack and a trigger system that includes a magnetic mat and reed switch, allowing the system to be powered internally and securely attached without modifying the container, with features like alarms and recording devices to deter and monitor theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a security system uses external power sources, then the system can operate continuously, but the system becomes vulnerable to power loss and requires access to power grids which are unavailable in remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The security system incorporates an internal battery pack that provides self-powered operation, eliminating dependence on external power sources. The battery pack is integrated within the security system housing and enables continuous operation in remote locations without access to power grids.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from relying on external infrastructure (power grids) to using self-contained internal resources (battery pack). This dimensional shift from external to internal power supply enables deployment in previously inaccessible remote locations while maintaining continuous operation.
2Reliability
If a security system is securely attached to the container, then the system resists theft and tampering, but the attachment mechanism adds complexity to the system design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnetic attachment mechanism that provides sufficient securing force through magnetic attraction between the security system housing and the container. This partial action approach uses magnetism rather than mechanical fastening, achieving reliable attachment without the complexity of multiple fasteners, brackets, or mounting hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment mechanisms (screws, bolts, clips) with a magnetic field-based attachment system. The magnet embedded in the container wall creates magnetic attraction that secures the security system without requiring mechanical fastening components, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If the security system includes alarm and recording devices, then the system provides effective deterrence and monitoring, but the system consumes more power from the battery
Solution Approach 1:
The security system employs periodic operation of high-power components such as the alarm and recording devices. These components activate only when motion is detected or security events occur, rather than operating continuously. This periodic action maintains effective deterrence and monitoring while significantly reducing overall battery power consumption during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates motion detection sensors that provide feedback about the container's security state. When motion or intrusion is detected, the feedback triggers activation of the alarm and recording devices. This feedback-based control ensures these power-intensive components operate only when necessary, optimizing the balance between security effectiveness and power consumption.
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 system provides effective deterrence and monitoring of theft by being self-powered and securely attached, reducing vulnerability to tampering and theft, even in remote locations without reliable external power sources.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet removably positionable intermediate the attachment portion of the enclosure and the container, wherein the magnet generates a magnetic field that attracts the enclosure to the container
Implementation Method 2
the switch includes a reed switch configured to detect a change in magnetic field when the door of the container is moved between the open orientation and the closed orientation
Data Source
AI summary
Security systems and methods are disclosed. A security system can be employed with a mobile, unpowered container having a door movable between an open orientation and a closed orientation. The security system can include an enclosure and a switch movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration upon movement of the door between the open orientation and the closed orientation. The security system can further include a battery pack in communication with the switch. The security system can also include a security device. The battery pack can be configured to operably power the security device when the switch is in the closed configuration. The security system can be attached to the container with a magnet and/or an array of magnets enclosed in a flexible magnetic mat. The security system can be deployed for a plurality of deployment cycles.