Simplified Locking Device Design for Secure Motor Vehicles
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Summary
Problems
Existing locking devices for motor vehicles are complex, have many components, and require significant installation space, making them difficult to assemble and install securely.
Innovation solutions
A simplified locking device design utilizing a single, combined spring element that supports both the locking bolt and the securing element, reducing the number of components and installation space needed, while providing a resilient preload to securely lock and unlock the locking bolt.
TRIZ Analysis
Specific contradictions:
General conflict description:
Principle concept:
If a traditional locking device with separate spring elements is used, then the locking bolt can be moved reliably into the locked position, but the device becomes complicated with many individual components and requires a lot of space
Why choose this principle:
The patent combines two separate spring elements into a single integrated spring element that performs both functions: moving the locking bolt into the locked position and holding the securing element in the retracted position. This merging reduces the number of components while maintaining the reliable locking function through the combined mechanical actions of the unified spring mechanism.
Principle concept:
If a traditional locking device with separate spring elements is used, then the locking bolt can be moved reliably into the locked position, but the device becomes complicated with many individual components and requires a lot of space
Why choose this principle:
The single spring element is designed to fulfill multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a locking spring for the locking bolt and a retaining spring for the securing element. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate spring components while ensuring reliable operation of both locking mechanisms through the unified spring element's elastic deformation and energy storage capabilities.
Application Domain
Data Source
AI summary:
A simplified locking device design utilizing a single, combined spring element that supports both the locking bolt and the securing element, reducing the number of components and installation space needed, while providing a resilient preload to securely lock and unlock the locking bolt.
Abstract
The invention relates to a locking device (100) for locking a functionally essential component of a motor vehicle, in particular a steering spindle, comprising a first housing part (10) in which a locking bolt (11) is movably received between a locking position (VP) for locking the functionally essential component and an unlocking position (EP) for releasing the functionally essential component, a second housing part (20) in which means for moving the locking bolt (11) between the locking position (VP) and the unlocking position (EP) are received, a locking element (12) which prevents movement of the locking bolt (11) in an engagement position (ES) and releases movement of the locking bolt (11) in a retraction position (RS), and a spring element (14) which holds the locking element (12) in the retraction position (RS) by means of a spring-elastic preload (V).when the first housing part (10) is arranged on the second housing part (20), and releases into the engagement position (ES) by a springback (R) when the first housing part (10) is changed in its arrangement relative to the second housing part (20). For this purpose, according to the invention, the spring element (14) is supported on the locking bolt (11) and acts on the locking bolt (11) from the unlocking position (EP) to the locking position (VP) by means of a spring-elastic preload (V).