Mechanical Lock Power Control for Secure Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current encryption technologies for notebook computers are costly due to the reliance on hardware devices, making them less convenient and more expensive for secure data storage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a mechanical lock mechanism that controls power to a function module using a password, allowing electrical connection only when the correct password is input, thereby enabling or disabling power to the device for encryption purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software encryption technologies (fingerprint recognition, facial recognition) are used, then encryption function is achieved, but hardware devices must be employed resulting in higher encryption costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex software-based encryption systems (fingerprint recognition, facial recognition) with a simple mechanical lock system. The mechanical lock uses traditional dial-based locking mechanism with conductive components that physically connect circuit boards when the correct password is entered, eliminating the need for expensive biometric hardware while achieving the same security function.
2Reliability
If software encryption technologies are used, then encryption function is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and less convenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex software encryption systems with a straightforward mechanical lock system. The lock uses a traditional dial mechanism with conductive components that physically connect circuit boards when the correct password is entered, eliminating the need for complex biometric hardware while achieving the same security function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a conventional mechanical lock design (similar to combination locks used in safes or briefcases) as a copy of proven security technology. By adapting this familiar, simple mechanical system for electronic device protection, it avoids the complexity of developing or implementing new software-based encryption systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical lock is used for encryption, then encryption costs are decreased and simplicity is improved, but power control functionality must be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical lock system with the power control system of the electronic device. The conductive components of the mechanical lock are integrated with the circuit board's power control circuitry, so that the lock's locking/unlocking action directly controls the power supply to the device. This combination eliminates the need for separate power control mechanisms while maintaining simplicity and low cost.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a housing, a function module, and a mechanical lock. The mechanical lock includes a lock shell, a plurality of lock wheels, a lock axle, a first conductive component, and a second conductive component. Rotation of the lock wheels to an unlocking state permits movement of the lock axle between two positions, where the first conductive component and the second conductive component are electrically connected or disconnected. When the first conductive component and the second conductive component are electrically connected, the function module is able to electrically connect to a power source so as to obtain electrical power therefrom.