Bidirectional Ignition Lock with Automatic Return Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle ignition systems, particularly those with pushing and rotary concepts, are unfamiliar and cumbersome for most drivers, leading to operating errors due to their complexity and adaptability issues for both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A method and ignition lock system where the control panel can be turned to the right or left to start the engine, with automatic return to a starting position, allowing for identical operation on both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, and requiring engine shutdown before key removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pushing concept or rotary concept is used for engine starting, then the ignition system can be operated, but the operation becomes unfamiliar and cumbersome leading to operating errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional rotary ignition operation by enabling the ignition key to be turned in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions to start the engine, rather than requiring a single directional rotation. This bidirectional operation simplifies the user experience and eliminates the need to remember specific rotation directions for different vehicle configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The ignition lock is designed with universal functionality to operate identically on both right-hand drive and left-hand drive vehicles. The control panel can detect and respond to rotational movements in both directions, making the ignition system adaptable to different vehicle types without requiring separate designs or user adaptation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ignition lock is adapted for right-hand drive or left-hand drive vehicle types, then the operation can be optimized for specific vehicle types, but the ignition lock cannot be used in both types
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition lock incorporates universal functionality by detecting rotational direction rather than requiring separate designs for different vehicle types. The control panel can interpret both clockwise and counter-clockwise rotations as valid start commands, making the same ignition lock suitable for both right-hand drive and left-hand drive vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The ignition system dynamically adapts to different operational contexts by detecting the direction of key rotation and responding appropriately. The control panel monitors rotational direction and can activate the start function regardless of rotation direction, providing flexible adaptation without requiring physical reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If the control panel is rotated to start the engine, then the engine can be started, but the control panel remains in the rotated position requiring manual return
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition lock incorporates a spring mechanism that automatically returns the control panel to its starting position after the engine start function is activated. This self-service feature eliminates the need for the user to manually rotate the key back, saving time and simplifying the overall operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel undergoes a periodic motion cycle: rotation in either direction to activate start, followed by automatic return to the neutral starting position. This periodic action ensures the system is always ready for the next operation without requiring manual intervention to reset.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves starting an engine and/or an ignition unit of a vehicle by rotating a control unit i.e. ignition key (1) to the right and to the left, where the control unit is placed inside the vehicle. The control unit is not removable during running of the motor or when the ignition unit is switched on. The control unit is automatically re-rotated in a starting position after the control unit is manually rotated. Deactivation of the ignition unit takes place by a rotary motion of the control unit to the right or to the left. An independent claim is also included for an ignition lock for a vehicle, comprising a control unit receptacle.