Secure Object Display Device with Independent Cell Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing presentation devices for valuable items like watches are either difficult to use, unsightly, or compromise security by locking and releasing all items simultaneously, which can be detrimental to safety and aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

A secure object presentation device featuring a base with cells and movable bolts, each actuated by a separate drive mechanism, allowing for independent locking and unlocking of supports, ensuring security and ease of use while maintaining aesthetic appeal and compact design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a secure presentation device locks all items simultaneously, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because all items must be locked and released together

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the locking mechanism into separate independent bolts for each cell, allowing individual items to be locked or unlocked independently rather than locking all items simultaneously. Each bolt is controlled by its own drive mechanism, enabling selective access to specific items while maintaining security for others.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a sophisticated secure system is implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases making it difficult to use

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the locking function into simple individual bolts for each cell, avoiding the need for complex centralized locking mechanisms. This segmentation maintains security while reducing overall system complexity and improving usability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each cell-bolt assembly is designed to be self-contained and self-serviceable, with the bolt automatically returning to the locked position after being actuated. This self-service characteristic reduces the need for complex control systems and simplifies operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If bolts are positioned to provide secure locking, then security is improved, but the space required increases reducing compactness

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcompactness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of moving the bolt along a linear path perpendicular to the cell face, the bolt is designed to rotate around the cell in a circular path. This inversion of the movement direction allows the bolt to achieve secure locking engagement while occupying minimal space, as the rotation radius is constrained by the cell geometry rather than requiring extended linear travel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP3167770B1Secure device for displaying objects

Publication Date: 2020.03.18 A A SYST DAUTOMATISMES DALARMES AUTOMATIQUES

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AI summary

Device for presenting objects (10), comprising a base (20) comprising at least one cell (22), at least one support (30) configured to receive at least one object and to be inserted and extracted from the cell ( 22), and at least one bolt (40) movable between a locked position in which the bolt (40) is able to cooperate with the support (30) to retain it in the cell (22), and an unlocked position in which the bolt (40) makes it possible to extract the support (30) from the cell (22), each bolt (40) being associated with a single cell (22) and actuated by a separate drive mechanism (50). The drive mechanism (50) is configured to drive the bolt (40) in rotation.