Magnetic Shield for Solenoid Locking Device Against Unauthorized Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solenoid activated locking devices, such as clamshell gunlocks, are vulnerable to unauthorized access when a strong magnet is used to activate the solenoid, causing the locking pin to retract and the lock to open, despite being made of non-magnetically conductive materials like aluminum.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically conductive shield is placed proximate the solenoid to dissipate external magnetic fields, preventing the solenoid from being activated by unauthorized magnetic forces and ensuring the lock remains secure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a solenoid activated locking mechanism is used for rapid access, then speed of access is improved, but vulnerability to magnetic activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetically conductive shield is introduced as an intermediary component between the external environment and the solenoid locking mechanism. This shield intercepts and redirects magnetic field lines, preventing them from reaching the solenoid. The shield acts as a protective mediator that maintains the functionality of the solenoid while blocking unauthorized magnetic activation, thereby resolving the contradiction between rapid access capability and security reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If non-magnetically conductive materials like aluminum are used for the locking device body, then ease of manufacture is improved, but magnetic field penetration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device employs a composite material strategy where the main body remains made of easily manufacturable non-magnetic material (such as aluminum), while a magnetically conductive shield component is added. This composite approach combines the manufacturing advantages of non-magnetic materials with the protective properties of magnetic shielding materials, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and resistance to magnetic field penetration.
3Reliability
If a magnetically conductive shield is added to block magnetic fields, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic shield is designed as a simple, inexpensive add-on component that can be easily manufactured and installed. Rather than redesigning the entire locking mechanism, the solution uses a straightforward magnetic shield element that provides effective protection without significantly increasing overall device complexity. The shield functions as a simple protective layer that intercepts magnetic fields before they reach the solenoid.
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 shield effectively prevents unauthorized access by dispersing magnetic fields, maintaining the security of firearms and tools while keeping them rapidly accessible, and can be applied to a variety of solenoid activated locking devices.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetically conductive shield is placed proximate the solenoid to dissipate external magnetic fields, preventing the solenoid from being activated by unauthorized magnetic forces
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic shield for a locking device such as a gunlock having a first portion and a second portion configured for controlled movement with respect to the other portion and for being held in a fixed and locked position vis-à-vis each other. At least one of the first and second portions includes an electromechanical locking mechanism including a solenoid and solenoid activated spring loaded pin configured, in a first position, for preventing the first and second portions from moving with respect one another and in a second position for allowing the first and second portions to move vis-à-vis one another. A magnetically conducive shield is disposed on or in at least one of the first and second portion that includes the solenoid locking mechanism, for preventing an unauthorized magnetic field from causing the solenoid to retract the spring loaded pin thereby allowing the locking device to be opened.