Tool-Free Quick-Release Fastener for Modular ATM Unit Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-release devices for ATMs and automatic cash registers require significant effort and tools to replace modular units, as they are bolted and require unscrewing and rescrewing, which is inefficient and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release fastener device with side elements connected via a connecting element and through holes, allowing for a detachable and re-establishable connection between units without tools, using a cylindrical engagement element that rotates to engage and disengage with a coupling element, ensuring secure attachment without slippage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If units are bolted to the ATM chassis for secure connection, then connection strength is improved, but replacement effort and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate components: a fastening element with engagement protrusions on the ATM chassis, and a corresponding engagement recesses on the modular unit. This segmentation allows the connection to be made through simple insertion rather than bolting, reducing replacement time while maintaining connection strength through the distributed engagement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary engagement mechanism consisting of protrusions and recesses that mediate between the modular unit and the ATM chassis. This intermediary connection system enables tool-free attachment and detachment while providing secure mechanical coupling, eliminating the need for time-consuming bolting operations.
2Reliability
If traditional bolting methods are used for unit replacement, then connection reliability is improved, but operational complexity increases due to tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, where the protrusions and recesses automatically align and engage when the modular unit is inserted into the ATM chassis. The connection establishes itself without requiring external tools or complex operations, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability through the automatic engagement of multiple contact points.
3Productivity
If modular units are designed for quick release, then replacement speed is improved, but connection security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement protrusions are nested within corresponding recesses on the modular unit, creating a interlocking configuration. This nesting arrangement allows for rapid insertion and removal while ensuring secure connection through the geometric interlocking of the nested elements, preventing accidental disengagement during operation.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple engagement points are used for secure attachment, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement protrusions and recesses are designed with universal geometry that can be replicated multiple times around the modular unit and chassis. This universal design allows the same simple geometric form to serve multiple engagement functions simultaneously, providing connection stability through multiple contact points without increasing the inherent complexity of the fastening mechanism itself.
Data Source
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AI summary
The quick closure device (16,18) has two side elements, where the latter side element is arranged at a preset distance from the former side element. The side elements are connected with each other in an end region by a connecting element. A through hole is provided in the end region of the side elements respectively, where the through holes of the side elements are arranged coaxially with each other. The side elements are connected with each other in the end region opposite to another end region by an engagement element. An independent claim is included for an arrangement for two units, which has a recess.