Rotating Locking Sled Security Device for Tamper Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security devices for retail products, particularly cylindrical objects like bottle necks, are expensive to manufacture, difficult to install and remove, and prone to tampering, with a need for improved designs that include a concealed housing and efficient unlocking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A security device comprising a tag and sled with a biased slug and engagement features, a security collar with rotating components, and a detacher key, allowing secure attachment and removal using a magnet, along with dual-frequency security elements for detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional security devices with multiple separate components are used, then security reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tag and sled into a single integrated security device that rotates to lock onto the product neck. This integration reduces the number of separate components while maintaining security functionality through the rotational locking mechanism, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and device complexity without sacrificing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides the locking action, ensures proper orientation of the security elements relative to the product, and creates a tamper-resistant configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, addressing both complexity and cost concerns
2Reliability
If traditional latching or locking mechanisms are used, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic rotational locking mechanism that transitions from an unlocked to a locked position through rotation. This dynamic action simplifies both installation (simple rotation to lock) and removal (reverse rotation to unlock) compared to static complex latching mechanisms, while maintaining security through the engaged locking position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical latching systems with a simpler rotational locking system. The rotation mechanism provides secure locking through geometric engagement rather than complex springs and latches, making the device easier to operate while maintaining security
3Ease of manufacture
If security devices with visible components are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but tamper resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the tag rotates to lock onto the sled, with the security elements positioned within the integrated housing. This nested configuration conceals the security mechanism while maintaining manufacturability, as the components are housed within a unified structure that is straightforward to produce
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational locking mechanism uses asymmetric geometry to provide tamper resistance. The non-symmetric engagement features ensure that the device locks in the correct orientation and cannot be easily manipulated or tampered with, while the overall structure remains manufacturable through standard processes
4Object-affected harmful factors
If security devices occupying significant space are used, then tamper resistance is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to reduced display space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a linear or bulky security device to a compact rotational mechanism that locks onto the product neck in a space-efficient manner. By utilizing the radial dimension around the neck rather than extending linearly, the device provides tamper resistance while occupying minimal display space, allowing more products to be displayed
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 cost-effective, easy-to-install, and tamper-resistant security system for retail products, ensuring reliable detection and prevention of theft.
Implementation Method 1
a slug biased towards the sled facing surface
Implementation Method 2
The first security element may be configured to respond to an electromagnetic field with a radio frequency signal for detection by an alarming unit
Implementation Method 3
The second security element may operate at a different frequency than the first security element. For example, the second security element may be an RFID tag
Implementation Method 4
The security device further comprises an adhesive applied to the product facing surface for applying the sled to a product
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
An example security device includes a tag and a sled. The tag may include a security element, a receiving recess, a locking channel adjacent to the receiving recess, and a slug biased towards a sled facing surface of the tag. The sled may include a base having a tab extending therefrom, an adhesive applied to a product facing surface of the base for applying the sled to a product, and a cavity in the base having an opening on a tag facing surface of the base.