Pivoting Clamp Lock Assembly for Portable Device Theft Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for portable electronic devices are not versatile enough to fit various device and surface configurations, often causing damage and are easily compromised due to their rigid clamping mechanisms and vulnerability to theft.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly with a clamp assembly featuring a movable jaw and elongated bar, combined with a locking mechanism that allows for secure clamping and pivoting, along with a connector system for secure attachment to the device, providing a strong and adaptable locking solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid clamping mechanisms are used to secure the device firmly, then the locking strength is improved, but the device becomes easier to compromise with simple tools and repeated wiggling and pulling
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static rigid clamp to a dynamic system with movable jaws that can adjust and lock into position. The jaw assembly includes a movable jaw that slides along the elongated bar and can be secured at different positions, creating a more complex motion pattern that resists simple circumvention attempts while maintaining strong locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism is divided into separate functional components: the clamp assembly with movable and fixed jaws, the locking mechanism as a distinct unit, and the connector as a separate element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while making the overall system more difficult to compromise compared to a single rigid structure
2Strength
If locking devices are designed for specific dimensions and configurations, then the locking strength is improved, but the device becomes incompatible with portable electronic devices and work surfaces having different dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is designed with universal adaptability through its adjustable jaw configuration and elongated bar structure. The movable jaw can be positioned at different locations along the bar to accommodate various work surface thicknesses and device sizes, while the connector can attach to different portable electronic device types, making the system universally applicable without sacrificing locking strength
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter adjustments in the form of different jaw positions along the elongated bar, varying clamp widths, and adjustable connector configurations. These parameter changes enable the same locking mechanism to adapt to different dimensional requirements of various portable electronic devices and work surfaces while maintaining effective locking capability
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the protection against theft is improved, but the ease of operation for quick locking and unlocking is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed with preliminary positioning features that guide the jaw into the correct locked position automatically when the connector is attached. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of the locking operation, allowing users to achieve secure locking quickly without requiring complex manual adjustments or multiple steps
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 solution provides a secure, adaptable, and difficult-to-compromise locking system that can be easily used with various devices and surfaces, enhancing protection against theft while allowing for easy device access.
Implementation Method 1
a connector for connecting the clamp assembly to the portable electronic device, wherein the connector permits the portable electronic device to pivot with respect to the locking assembly while locked thereto
Data Source
AI summary
A locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface. The locking assembly comprises a clamp assembly including an elongated bar that extends between a first end and a second end. The clamp assembly further includes a first jaw and a second jaw moveable along the elongated bar for clamping to a work surface between the first and second jaws. A connector extends from a first connector end that is pivotally connected to the locking assembly to a second end that can be connected to the portable electronic device. The connector securing the portable electronic device to the work surface while permitting it to pivot with respect to the locking assembly.