Multi-lock security device and detaching device for use therewith

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing security devices used in retail establishments can be easily compromised by universal detachers, making them ineffective in preventing theft as they require only one type of detacher to release the security pin, thereby simplifying the theft process.

Innovation Solution

A multi-lock security device incorporating both a spring lock and a magnetic lock, where both locks must be in the released position simultaneously to remove the pin, utilizing a detaching device that can manage both locks' positions to ensure secure attachment and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single lock mechanism is used in security devices, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the security reliability is insufficient because universal detachers can easily release the pin

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The security device is divided into multiple independent lock mechanisms (first lock mechanism and second lock mechanism) that work together to secure the pin. Each lock mechanism operates independently but must both be released to remove the pin, thereby increasing security reliability without requiring a single complex locking system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple lock mechanisms of different types (spring-based and magnetic) are combined within a single security device housing. These different locking mechanisms are merged to work together on the same pin, creating a multi-layered security system that prevents easy release by universal detachers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple different lock mechanisms are used, then the security reliability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates because a specialized detacher is needed for each lock type

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity reliabilityVSAvoidease of detachment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The detacher device is designed with multi-functionality to handle both the spring-based lock mechanism and the magnetic lock mechanism. It includes both a spring lock detacher component and a magnetic lock detacher component, allowing a single detacher tool to release both lock types, thereby maintaining ease of operation despite the increased security from multiple lock mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances security by requiring simultaneous release of both locks, making it more difficult for thieves to use universal detachers, thereby increasing the security of attached items.

Implementation Method 1

The magnetic lock is adapted to engage the security pin when in an engaged position and to release the security pin when in a release position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2394009B1Multi-lock security device and detaching device for use therewith
Publication Date: 2017.11.01 GARNER GLEN WALTER
  • EP2394009B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2394009B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2394009B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A security device for use in association with a security pin includes a tag body, a spring lock and a magnetic lock. The tag body has a body aperture formed therein adapted to receive the security pin. The spring lock is situated within the tag body and has a spring lock aperture formed therein in registration with the body aperture. The spring lock is adapted to engage the security pin when in an engaged position and release the security pin when in a released position. The magnetic lock is within the tag body and has a magnetic lock aperture. The magnetic lock is adapted to engage the security pin when in an engaged position and to release the security pin when in a release position. The spring lock and the magnetic lock need to both be in the released position to successfully remove the security pin form the security device. A detaching device to move the spring lock and the magnetic lock into the released such that they are both in the release position at the same time is also shown.