Three-Position Lock for Transport Ticket Validator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ticket validation systems in public transport vehicles face security risks due to the need for connection, which can be hacked, and require a solution that is easy to use and compatible with maintenance disassembly.

Innovation Solution

A fastening system with a lock having three positions: fully locked to prevent data access, unlocked for removal, and partially locked to allow data access, using a shutter mechanism and protruding legs to secure the validator on a support, with electrical connectors for data transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a wired connection is provided between the validator and reader for data transfer, then communication speed is improved, but security risk increases due to potential hacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication speedVSAvoidsecurity risk
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A shutter mechanism is introduced as an intermediary physical barrier between the data access interface and the external environment. The shutter can be positioned to either block or allow access to the connector, mediating between the need for fast wired communication and the need to prevent unauthorized access. When closed, it prevents hackers from connecting pirate readers; when open, it allows legitimate data transfer operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the validator is permanently fixed to the support, then security against removal is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against removalVSAvoidease of maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing system transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic removable fixation. A locking mechanism with movable elements (such as snap-fit connectors or bayonet mounts) allows the validator to be securely fixed during normal operation but easily removed when maintenance is needed. The system adapts its state between secured and removable based on operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If a lock mechanism with three positions is implemented to control data access, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata access securityVSAvoidlock mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated lock mechanism. The same locking system that secures the validator to the support also controls access to the data interface. A single component or mechanism performs both the mechanical fixation and the data access authorization, eliminating the need for separate security systems and reducing overall complexity despite providing multiple security states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2565849B1Attachment of a transport ticket validator
Publication Date: 2017.10.04 AFFILIATED COMP SERVICES SOLUTIONS FRANCE
  • EP2565849B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~3B
  • EP2565849B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2565849B1 patent drawingFigure 4A~4B

AI summary

The invention relates to a removable fixing mechanism for a transport ticket validator on a support, comprising a lock (6) with three positions, among which: a first position in which the validator is mechanically locked onto the support and in which access (62) to data contained in the validator is also locked; a second position allowing the validator to be detached from the support; and a third position in which the validator is mechanically locked onto the support and in which access to said data is unlocked.