Pivoting Latch Vending Machine Hatch Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic vending machines lack robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access to stored objects when the hatch is in a closed position, as they rely on inadequate locking mechanisms that can be easily bypassed.
Innovation Solution
A vending machine design featuring a pivoting locking latch connected to an actuator that moves the hatch between closed and passage positions, utilizing a separate locking member to secure the hatch in the closed position and unlock it for object retrieval, ensuring enhanced security with minimal additional parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple hatch closing mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the security against unauthorized access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking element integrated in the hatch, a locking member on the wall, and a pivoting arm that connects them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity and achieving reliable security through coordinated action of discrete parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static closed position to a dynamic system where the pivoting arm can rotate between locked and unlocked states. The actuator enables controlled movement of the pivoting arm, allowing the hatch to transition between secure locked state and accessible unlocked state, providing both security and operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the hatch, then the security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is merged with the hatch structure itself rather than being a separate independent mechanism. The pivoting arm is integrated into the hatch assembly, and the locking member is positioned on the wall to cooperate with the hatch's locking element. This merging reduces the number of separate components while achieving secure locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the hatch's position and the actuator's state. The pivoting arm naturally pivots to lock the hatch in the closed position without requiring continuous external intervention, and can be automatically unlocked when the actuator changes state, providing self-regulating security.
3Reliability
If a pin locking system is implemented, then the security is enhanced, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional pin-based locking system is replaced with a pivoting arm mechanism actuated by an actuator. Instead of requiring manual manipulation of pins or complex mechanical locking sequences, the system uses a simplified pivoting motion controlled by the actuator to achieve secure locking and easy opening, improving operational ease while maintaining security.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic object dispenser, comprising a wall with an opening for passing an object therethrough, a trapdoor (TA) for blocking the opening, and an actuator for moving the trapdoor (TA). According to the invention, the actuator (VER) is connected to the trapdoor (TA) by a locking latch (8) pivoting on the trap door (TA) relative to a separate locking member (10), wherein means are provided so that the actuator (VER) can pivot the latch (8) into a locking position on the locking member (10) by moving the actuator (VER) in the second closing direction up to the first blocking position of the opening for blocking said trapdoor (TA) in said first blocking position and, as well as into an unlocking position relative to the locking member (10) by moving the actuator (VER) in the first direction from the first blocking position in order to move the trapdoor (TA) from the first blocking position to a second passage position.