Multi-Aperture Lock Interface for Portable Device Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional security systems for portable electronic devices are limited in their ability to securely attach different types of security apparatuses, and they often fail to provide sufficient strength to deter theft, as thieves may target the data within the devices rather than the devices themselves.

Innovation Solution

A lock interface member with multiple apertures configured to engage different security apparatuses, allowing for the use of various security systems with a single portable electronic device, and enhancing the coupling strength between the security apparatus and the device to withstand higher forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a single lock interface member is designed to engage with only one type of security apparatus, then the coupling strength and security effectiveness are improved, but the adaptability and versatility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling strengthVSAvoidcompatibility with different security apparatuses

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lock interface member is segmented into multiple distinct apertures (first aperture and second aperture) within a single component. Each aperture is configured to receive and engage with different types of engagement elements from various security apparatuses. This segmentation allows the single interface member to accommodate multiple security apparatus types while maintaining strong coupling for each specific engagement pair.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lock interface member is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating multiple apertures that can engage with different security apparatuses. The single interface member serves multiple functions by accepting both the first engagement element (for first security apparatus) and the second engagement element (for second security apparatus), thereby achieving universality without compromising the strength of individual engagements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If conventional security mechanisms are used, then the device can be secured, but the strength of coupling is insufficient to deter determined thieves targeting data

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity effectivenessVSAvoidcoupling strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple engagement mechanisms into a single lock interface member. The first aperture receives a first engagement element and the second aperture receives a second engagement element, combining multiple security engagement points into one integrated component. This merging increases the overall coupling strength and makes it more difficult for thieves to separate the security apparatus from the portable electronic device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8230707B2Security system with lock interface member with multiple apertures

Publication Date: 2012.07.31 ACCO BRANDS CORP

AI summary

A system is disclosed. It includes a portable electronic device comprising a lock interface member having a first aperture configured to engage with a first security apparatus and a second aperture configured to engage with a second security apparatus. At least one of the first security apparatus and the second security apparatus is engaged with the lock interface member.