Reconfigurable Security Slot Interface for Multi-Standard Cable Locks

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing cable lock systems for information handling systems require multiple slot inserts for different lock types, leading to increased costs, complexity, and space consumption, as manufacturers cannot predict the desired lock type for their systems, and users face challenges in switching between various lock systems.

Innovation Solution

A reconfigurable security slot interface insert that accommodates multiple types of cable lock systems, such as Noble® Wedge and Kensington® NanoSaver, allowing for easy switching and integration into a single chassis without additional apertures, using a reversible design with attachment screws and retention walls to secure the locks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple slot inserts are used for different cable lock types, then compatibility with various lock systems is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various lock systemsVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal security slot insert design that can accommodate multiple cable lock types (Kensington, Noble Wedge, and other wedge-style locks) through a single standardized interface. The insert features a standardized cavity with dimensions and geometries designed to universally receive different lock mechanisms, eliminating the need for multiple specialized slot inserts while maintaining compatibility across various lock systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The security slot insert is divided into distinct functional segments: a standardized cavity portion that receives the lock mechanism, a retention wall structure that secures the lock in place, and a recessed region that accommodates different lock types. This segmentation allows the single insert to handle multiple lock types through its modular internal structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple slot inserts are used for different cable lock types, then compatibility with various lock systems is improved, but manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various lock systemsVSAvoidmanufacturing costs

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized security slot insert serves multiple lock types through a single design, reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need to produce, inventory, and install multiple different insert types. The standardized cavity dimensions and retention wall configurations can be manufactured using common molding or machining processes, reducing tooling costs and production complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of multiple specialized slot inserts into a single standardized insert that can accommodate Kensington, Noble Wedge, and other wedge-style locks. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and managed, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple slot inserts are used for different cable lock types, then compatibility with various lock systems is improved, but space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various lock systemsVSAvoidspace consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized security slot insert provides a single space-efficient solution that replaces multiple specialized inserts. The compact cavity design with integrated retention walls fits within the same or smaller footprint than multiple separate inserts would require, reducing the overall space consumed in the information handling system chassis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If users need to switch between various lock systems, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to switching challenges

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of switching between lock systems

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized security slot insert provides a consistent, uniform interface for all wedge-style cable locks, including Kensington and Noble Wedge locks. Users experience the same insertion and removal process regardless of which lock type they are using, significantly improving ease of operation and eliminating the confusion associated with switching between different slot insert types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10345864B1Multi-standard chassis security slot for information handling systems

Publication Date: 2019.07.09 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

An information handling system comprising a chassis containing a processor and a memory and having a mounting aperture to receive a first cable lock slot interface of a reconfigurable security slot interface insert operatively coupled internally to the chassis, and the reconfigurable security slot interface insert having the first cable lock slot interface and a second cable lock slot interface, wherein the first cable lock slot interface is compatible with a first cable lock type and the second cable lock slot interface is compatible with a second cable lock type.