Magnetic Housing Lock With Contracting Wire for Secure Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems lack effective mechanisms to secure access to internal components, particularly in high-security environments, where unauthorized access needs to be prevented while allowing authorized access with ease.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism using fixed and movable magnets secured within the system's housings, controlled by a contracting wire that shrinks upon voltage application, allowing authorized access and automatic re-locking after use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is implemented to secure access to internal components, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but ease of operation for authorized personnel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically re-locks after the contracting wire returns to its original state, eliminating the need for manual re-locking by authorized personnel. The system serves itself by automatically returning to the locked state after authorized access is granted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with a smart contracting wire mechanism that can be controlled remotely or automatically. This substitution enables the locking mechanism to be actuated through electrical signals rather than manual mechanical operations, improving ease of operation while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism is used, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the contracting wire serves as both the actuating mechanism and the locking control element. The movable locking magnets and fixed locking magnets work together as a unified magnetic locking system, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in the physical state of the contracting wire (contraction and expansion) to control the locking mechanism. By changing the length parameter of the contracting wire through electrical actuation, the system achieves locking and unlocking functions without requiring complex mechanical linkages or multiple moving parts.
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
Provides secure access control by preventing unauthorized access to internal components while ensuring easy access for authorized personnel, enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The contracting wire may shrink in length based on a voltage being applied to the contracting wire. The contracting wire may exert a force on each of the movable locking magnets as the length of the contracting wire shrinks.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes top and bottom housings, multiple fixed locking magnets secured within the bottom housing, multiple movable locking magnets located within the top housing, and a contracting wire in physical communication with each of the movable locking magnets. The contracting wire shrinks in length based on a voltage being applied to the contracting wire. The contracting wire exerts a force on each of the movable locking magnets as the length of the contracting wire shrinks. Each of the movable locking magnets transition from a locked position to an unlocked position based on the force exerted by the contracting wire. The top and bottom housings separate when each of the movable locking magnets are in the unlocked position.