Shielded Electronics Crate Locking Structure for TEMPEST Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-security crates for electronic equipment face challenges in providing robust electromagnetic shielding, preventing unauthorized access, and resisting brute force attacks while meeting TEMPEST standards for signal attenuation and physical security.
Innovation Solution
A TEMPEST-grade electromagnetically shielded electronics crate with a locking mechanism featuring a locking bolt with two corresponding openings, a locking lever operable from outside, a linear motion mechanism with a guiding track, and a dual locking bolt configuration, along with an electromagnetically sealing gasket to enhance security and resistance against attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is placed inside the crate for protection, then security against physical attacks is improved, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested inside the crate body, with the locking bolt housed within the crate structure. The locking lever operates from the outside through a window or opening, while the actual locking components remain protected inside. This nesting approach protects the locking mechanism from external attacks while maintaining operational simplicity through the external lever interface.
2Reliability
If a locking bolt with two openings is used, then security against brute force attacks is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bolt is segmented into two separate openings instead of a single hole. Each opening can be independently engaged or disengaged, providing redundant security paths. This segmentation creates multiple failure modes that would need to be simultaneously overcome for a brute force attack to succeed, while the bolt itself remains a relatively simple component.
3Reliability
If the locking mechanism is made more secure with multiple components, then protection against unauthorized access is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single locking lever operation. The lever simultaneously controls the locking bolt engagement, the opening alignment, and the overall locking state. This consolidation allows the user to secure or release the crate with a single simple motion, despite the presence of multiple security features and components.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3a
AI summary
A TEMPEST-grade electromagnetically shielded electronics crate (10) comprises a body (20) and a drawer (30). The drawer is arranged to be locked by a latch mechanism (70) and a locking bolt (52). The locking bolt (52) is configured to engage with two openings (36; 46) which, in the locked state line up with said locking bolt (52).