Cycle Frame Insertion Lock with Electrical Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cycle locks rely on mechanical keys, which can be inconvenient and limit user access, especially in scenarios where key management is complex or temporary access is needed.

Innovation Solution

A cycle frame insertion lock with electrical actuation, integrated with a cycle on-board computer, allowing for keyless operation using Bluetooth or mobile phone applications, and featuring solenoid-actuated locking mechanisms and indirect locking members for secure access control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional mechanical keys are used for cycle locks, then the locking mechanism is simple and reliable, but user access flexibility and convenience are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser access flexibilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key system with an electrical actuation system. The lock body includes an actuating means with a solenoid that converts electrical signals into mechanical motion to actuate the locking means, eliminating the need for mechanical keys while maintaining reliable locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an on-board computer as an intermediary between the user and the locking mechanism. The computer receives access information, processes authentication, and controls the actuating means accordingly. This intermediary layer enables flexible access control through electronic keys, mobile phones, or other authentication methods while keeping the physical locking mechanism relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If electrical actuation is implemented in the lock, then keyless operation and flexible access control are enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvekeyless operation convenienceVSAvoidelectrical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The on-board computer serves multiple functions: it acts as the access control system, stores authentication data, communicates with various key types (electronic keys, mobile phones), and controls the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated unit, improving ease of operation while managing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where users can independently authenticate and access the cycle without requiring physical key exchange or manual locking/unlocking. The actuating means automatically responds to authentication signals from the on-board computer, providing convenient keyless operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a solenoid actuating mechanism is used, then reliable electrical-to-mechanical conversion is achieved, but the use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism reliabilityVSAvoidsolenoid energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solenoid actuating mechanism operates periodically rather than continuously - it is energized only during the brief moment when locking or unlocking is required. The on-board computer controls the actuation by applying voltage temporarily to the solenoid coil, achieving reliable mechanical action with minimal energy consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables secure, keyless operation of the cycle lock through electronic means, providing flexible access options, including temporary use, and ensures reliable locking and unlocking mechanisms without mechanical keys.

Implementation Method 1

The actuating means more preferably comprise a solenoid for providing a path of movement for the locking means.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Implementation Method 2

The ejector member is pushed out by means of a spring.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10450019B2Cycle insertion lock, cycle board computer, cycle, mobile communication device, user access server, user access system and data carrier
Publication Date: 2019.10.22 MA MICRO LTD
  • US10450019B2 patent drawing
  • US10450019B2 patent drawing
  • US10450019B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a cycle frame insertion lock with electrical actuation suitable or configured for co-action with a cycle on-board computer configured to provide user access to the cycle. The cycle frame insertion lock includes a lock body, an insertion member receiving assembly comprising an insertion channel for receiving an insertion member, locking means for locking the insertion member in the insertion channel, actuating means for actuating the locking means, and a connector for connecting the actuating means to a cycle on-board computer. The actuating means can be actuated by means of an actuation, such as an actuating signal, initiated in the cycle on-board computer.