Wall-Mounted Terminal Locking Structure for Fast Secure Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional terminal apparatuses with screw connections for fingerprint recognition devices are time-consuming to install and vulnerable to tampering when disassembled by unauthorized individuals, compromising data security.

Innovation Solution

A terminal apparatus with a locker unit that includes a first locker moving in one direction and a second locker moving in a perpendicular direction, utilizing elastic members for secure engagement and disengagement with a bracket, and a detection switch to activate a tamper function upon separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a screw connection method is used to fix the terminal apparatus, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the installation time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional screw connection mechanism with a spring-based elastic connection system. The elastic member (spring) automatically engages with the bracket's engagement protrusion, providing secure fixation without requiring screws or manual fastening operations. This substitution maintains connection reliability while dramatically reducing installation time and improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic member with engagement protrusion is designed to automatically engage with the bracket's corresponding feature during installation. The spring's inherent elasticity enables self-alignment and self-latching, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening or complex fastening procedures. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable connection while enabling rapid installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the terminal apparatus is designed to be easily disassembled for convenience, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security against unauthorized access deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly convenienceVSAvoidsecurity against tampering
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the locking mechanism into two independent components: an elastic member for normal operation and a separate locker unit for security. The elastic member allows convenient disassembly by pushing the locker unit, while the locker unit itself must be manually manipulated to release the engagement. This segmentation enables both ease of operation and security against unauthorized access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locker unit acts as an intermediary between the elastic member and the external environment. It controls access to the engagement mechanism, requiring intentional manual operation to disengage. This intermediary layer prevents accidental or unauthorized disassembly while maintaining the ability for authorized users to easily remove the apparatus when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fingerprint recognition device is included in the terminal apparatus, then the functionality is improved, but the vulnerability to data tampering when disassembled increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecognition functionalityVSAvoiddata tampering risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary anti-action by designing the elastic connection with an integrated locker unit and detection switch that triggers a tamper response. Before unauthorized disassembly can occur, the system is already prepared with security measures: the detection switch monitors the engagement state and automatically activates tamper protection (such as data encryption or deletion) when unauthorized separation is detected, preventing data tampering.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

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

Facilitates quicker installation of the terminal apparatus by eliminating the need for screws and enhances security by preventing unauthorized access and data tampering.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic portion disposed adjacent to the locker unit. The elastic portion may include a main elastic member applying a restoring force to the second locker to allow the second locker to move toward the bracket.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The auxiliary elastic member may include a spring extending in the vertical direction. The auxiliary elastic member may be contracted when an external force is applied downward to the first locker, and may extend when the external force applied downward to the first locker is removed. In other words, the auxiliary elastic member may provide a restoring force to the first locker in an upward direction.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4084588A1Terminal apparatus and terminal equipment including the same
Publication Date: 2022.11.02 SUPREMA INC
  • EP4084588A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4084588A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4084588A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A terminal apparatus (1000) includes: a case (1100) configured to be selectively engaged with a bracket (2000) installed on a wall; and a locker unit (1200) configured to move with respect to the bracket (2000) to prevent the case (1100) from coming out of the engagement or to allow the case (1100) to come out of the engagement. The locker unit (1200) includes a first locker (1210) configured to move in a first direction by an external force applied by a user, and a second locker (1220) configured to move in a second direction different from the first direction by the movement of the first locker (1210).