Movable Bracket Mechanism for Secure Switch Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with externally actuated switches are prone to unauthorized access and accidental activation, leading to data loss and security risks, especially when used in public places or left unattended, as existing anti-theft measures like Kensington locks do not restrict access to these switches.
Innovation Solution
A housing design featuring moveable brackets that align to allow access to externally actuated switches when unoccupied but misalign and block access when an external member, such as a Kensington lock, is inserted, preventing unauthorized activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If externally actuated switches are made accessible for operation, then ease of operation is improved, but security and reliability deteriorate due to unauthorized access and accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed to be movable between two positions: a first position that blocks the opening to prevent access to the switch, and a second position that aligns the opening with the switch to enable access. This dynamic positioning mechanism allows the system to transition between secure and operational states based on whether an anti-theft device is present.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable bracket acts as an intermediary element between the opening and the switch. It controls access to the switch by selectively blocking or aligning the opening, serving as a mediator that can be positioned differently based on the presence of an anti-theft device inserted into the receptacle.
2Ease of operation
If open access is provided to switches, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to need for additional security mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The movable bracket serves multiple functions: it acts as a blocking element to prevent unauthorized access, serves as a structural component of the housing, and functions as a mechanism that responds to the presence of anti-theft devices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated security components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically transitions the bracket between blocked and accessible positions based on whether an anti-theft device is inserted into the receptacle. The mechanism self-regulates access control without requiring additional control systems or complex logic, simply responding to the physical presence or absence of the anti-theft device.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of providing access to a switch of an electronic device are described herein. In an example, a housing of the electronic device includes a sidewall having an opening to receive an external actuator to access a switch of the electronic device. The housing further includes a first bracket and a second bracket, both movably coupled to the sidewall. The first bracket includes an actuator opening, which when aligned with the opening of the sidewall, allows the external actuator to access the switch. Further, the second bracket is moveable to co-operate with the first bracket to align the actuator opening with the opening to provide access to the switch.