Smart Tray Sensor Detection for Firearm Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm safety enclosures are not adaptable to a wide range of firearms, including those with non-metallic components, and may impede emergency response, as they often rely on ferromagnetic components that do not function with polymers used in firearms like GLOCKS, and lack versatility for use with other objects.
Innovation Solution
A smart tray with wireless connectivity that uses sensors, such as photoelectric or inductive proximity sensors, to detect the presence or absence of an object, triggering commands to smart devices for alarm conditions or self-defense assistance, allowing for adaptable and versatile use with various firearms and objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ferromagnetic components are used to detect firearm presence, then security monitoring is achieved, but the system fails to detect firearms with non-metallic components (e.g., GLOCKS with polymer frames)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple sensor types (ferromagnetic sensor, optical sensor, and weight sensor) within the same container system to create a universal detection capability that works across different firearm types. The ferromagnetic sensor detects metallic components, the optical sensor detects non-metallic polymer components, and the weight sensor provides backup detection, ensuring the system adapts to various firearm constructions including GLOCKS with polymer frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite sensing approach combining multiple detection technologies (magnetic field sensing, optical sensing, and weight measurement) to detect both metallic and non-metallic firearm components. This composite detection strategy overcomes the limitation of single-sensor systems that cannot detect polymer-based firearm parts.
2Reliability
If locking mechanisms are implemented to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but emergency access is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with an electronic sensor-based monitoring system. Instead of using physical locks that require keys or combinations (which impede emergency access), the system uses ferromagnetic, optical, and weight sensors to detect firearm presence and trigger electronic alerts, allowing rapid emergency removal without mechanical obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through sensors that continuously monitor firearm presence and immediately notify authorized users via electronic alerts when removal is detected. This feedback mechanism provides security monitoring without physical constraints, enabling both security and rapid emergency access.
3Reliability
If traditional alarm systems are used to notify remote locations, then security monitoring is achieved, but the system lacks integration with smart devices and modern notification methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alarm systems with electronic and wireless notification technologies. The sensor-trip mechanism connects to smart devices through electronic communication, enabling notifications via smartphones, tablets, or other intelligent devices rather than relying on remote mechanical alarm systems, thus modernizing the notification infrastructure.
4Reliability
If a container is designed for specific firearm types, then secure storage is achieved, but versatility with other objects and firearm types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the container with universal sensor detection capabilities that can identify and monitor various firearm types through multiple sensing methods (magnetic, optical, weight). This universal detection approach allows the same container to securely store different firearm types including those with non-metallic components, while also potentially accommodating other valuable objects, thereby achieving both security and versatility.
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
Enables secure and adaptable storage and alert systems for firearms, facilitating emergency response and notification, while accommodating a variety of firearm types and allowing integration with smart home devices for enhanced security and self-defense assistance.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is positioned to detect the presence of the object within or on the tray
Implementation Method 2
uses sensors, such as photoelectric or inductive proximity sensors, to detect the presence or absence of an object
Data Source
AI summary
This invention further relates to a networking smart tray made of a tray configured to receive an object a sensor positioned to detect the presence of the object within the receptacle; a user interface in communication with the networking microcontroller; and a networking microcontroller configured to receive a sensor input and transmit a command to a smart device through a network connection. This invention further relates to a method to indicate if an object is absent from a networking smart tray, wherein the indication is shown in a selected smart device in communication with the smart tray. This method involves the steps of: providing the networking smart tray as described above, placing the object within or on the smart tray; and removing the object from the smart tray to generate a wireless signal to a selected smart device.