Vehicle Accessory Lock Control Module for Remote Unlocking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle accessories with power locks require multiple key fobs and labor-intensive wiring, which increases installation time and cost, and may void vehicle warranties.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising control modules that receive power and unlock signals from the vehicle, allowing for remote electrical unlocking and opening of electro-mechanical rotary latches on vehicle accessories like truck caps and tonneau covers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If hard wiring of each power accessory lock individually to the vehicle's battery or door locking system is used, then remote locking and unlocking functionality is achieved, but installation becomes labor-intensive requiring multiple wires through the vehicle body and numerous additional parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control module as an intermediary device that receives unlock signals from the vehicle's existing door locking system and uses this signal to operate the accessory lock. This intermediary approach allows the accessory lock to be integrated with the vehicle's remote locking system without requiring complex hard wiring of multiple individual locks to the battery or door locking system. The control module acts as a signal bridge, simplifying the wiring requirements while maintaining full remote locking functionality.
2Extent of automation
If multiple key fobs with vehicle fob and ignition key are used for power accessory locks, then locking and unlocking functionality is achieved, but user convenience decreases and key management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the accessory lock system universal by integrating it with the vehicle's existing door locking and ignition systems. The accessory lock can be controlled through the same key fob used for the vehicle door, eliminating the need for separate key fobs. The system responds to the vehicle's existing unlock signal, allowing a single key fob to control both the vehicle door and the accessory lock, thereby simplifying key management and improving user convenience.
3Extent of automation
If multiple wires are run through the body of the vehicle for power accessory locks, then remote locking functionality is achieved, but installation time increases and vehicle warranty may be voided
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves as an intermediary that taps into the vehicle's existing electrical signals without requiring extensive new wiring. By utilizing the existing door locking system's unlock signal, the system avoids the need to run multiple individual wires through the vehicle body for each accessory lock. This approach significantly reduces installation time and complexity while maintaining full remote locking functionality.
4Extent of automation
If multiple wires are run through the body of the vehicle for power accessory locks, then remote locking functionality is achieved, but risk of voiding vehicle warranty increases due to body modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The control module acts as a non-invasive intermediary that interfaces with the vehicle's existing electrical system through signal tapping rather than extensive wiring modifications. By utilizing the existing door locking system's electrical signals, the system minimizes physical modifications to the vehicle body, thereby reducing the risk of voiding vehicle warranties while still achieving full remote locking functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a system and method for unlocking and opening a door or window on a vehicle accessory cap, or a tonneau cover, with the vehicle having an operator, a battery for providing electric power and a vehicle door unlock signal, comprising, a first control module receiving input power from the battery and receiving the vehicle door unlock signal from the vehicle. Upon receiving the vehicle door unlock signal from the vehicle, the first control module sends a switch operable signal to a first switch, and upon activation of the switch by the vehicle operator, the first control module sends a signal to a first latch associated with the cap door or window or tonneau cover to open the cap door or window or tonneau cover. Multiple control modules may be daisy-chained. In one embodiment, the control modules receive input power, but no vehicle door unlock signal.