Cycle Storage Locking System with Fork-Integrated Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cycle storage and locking systems are inadequate due to insufficient storage posts, high operational costs, complex installation requirements, and imperfect security outside storage stations, which limits the deployment of electrically assisted cycles for rental use and hampers user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A simplified and cost-effective cycle storage and locking system featuring storage stations with movable locking projections integrated into the cycle's fork, allowing for easy installation and secure locking without expensive civil engineering, combined with an automatic battery recharging system for electrically assisted cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional storage posts with mechatronic systems are used, then security and locking functionality are provided, but installation complexity and civil engineering requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into two independent parts: a passive storage station structure (arms, guide ramps, locking housings) and an active locking mechanism integrated into the cycle's fork. This segmentation allows the storage station to be simple and easy to install, while the mechatronic system remains in the portable cycle unit, resolving the contradiction between security reliability and installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cycle's fork acts as an intermediary carrier that integrates the locking mechanism. Instead of embedding complex mechatronic systems in fixed storage posts, the locking system is transferred to the mobile cycle unit, which then interacts with the simple passive storage station structure. This mediator approach enables security functionality without requiring complex installation at storage locations.
2Ease of operation
If more storage posts are deployed to avoid station saturation, then user convenience improves, but operational costs and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage station is designed as a simple, low-cost passive structure without expensive mechatronic components. This allows operators to deploy multiple stations economically, improving user convenience by providing more options without proportionally increasing operational costs or installation complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrically assisted cycles are deployed for rental, then user appeal and rental demand increase, but theft risk and security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the cycle's fork structure, creating an integrated security system. The movable locking projections are part of the fork assembly, ensuring that the high-value electric components and the security mechanism are unified, making theft more difficult while maintaining rental appeal.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking projections are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to engage with the storage station arms when needed and retract when the cycle is in use. This dynamic locking system provides security for electrically assisted cycles while maintaining ease of use and rental appeal.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a cycle storage and locking system, which includes a plurality of cycles (1) and at least one storage station including a plurality of storage and locking points, while the system includes means for locking each one of the cycles to one of the storage and locking points, each one of the storage points being made up of two arms, forming between them a space in which the front wheel of the cycle is intended to be inserted when positioning the cycle, while the means for locking each one of the cycles are made up of two laterally mobile side projections (6a, 6b) engaging with two locking recesses (7a, 7b), characterised in that the cycle includes the two mobile locking projections and the storage point includes the two concave locking recesses (7a, 7b).