Frangible Lock Insert Shatters to Break Ignition Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle ignition lock systems are vulnerable to theft, as skilled thieves can bypass or forcibly remove the key and cylinder lock, leading to unauthorized vehicle starting.
Innovation Solution
A lock mechanism featuring a frangible lock insert with a conductive pathway that shatters upon excessive force, disrupting the ignition circuit and preventing engine start when the lock is tampered with, utilizing a ceramic or glass substrate with a thin conductive layer and epoxy binding, integrated with a key reader and electronic control module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional key and cylinder lock system is used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the reliability against theft is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a traditional key-operated cylinder lock for normal operation, and a separate frangible insert with conductive pathway for security detection. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simple key operation while adding theft prevention capability through the frangible component that breaks upon forced removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The frangible insert acts as an intermediary element between the lock cylinder and the housing. It provides a detectable signal (electrical continuity) that mediates between the mechanical locking action and the electronic security system, enabling the control module to detect unauthorized removal attempts without interfering with normal key operation.
2Reliability
If an electronic interlock system with frangible base is used, then the reliability against theft is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frangible security component with the existing lock cylinder assembly. The conductive pathway is integrated into the lock insert itself, combining the mechanical locking function with the electronic security detection function in a single integrated component, thereby reducing overall system complexity compared to separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock insert serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical interface for key operation, maintains electrical continuity for normal security signaling, and acts as a frangible element that breaks upon forced removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while enhancing security.
3Reliability
If the lock cylinder is made more secure against removal, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frangible insert is designed with localized weakness (the frangible base) at a specific point that is intended to break under forced removal conditions. This local quality change allows the rest of the lock mechanism to remain robust and easy to operate, while only the specific frangible portion sacrifices itself under duress, maintaining overall ease of operation for legitimate use.
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
Effectively prevents unauthorized vehicle starting by ensuring the ignition system remains locked even when physical force is applied to the lock, maintaining security without compromising normal operation.
Implementation Method 1
a frangible lock insert having body, an outer edge around the body, a central aperture in the body, and an electrically conductive pathway between the first tab and the second tab... which is interrupted by disintegration of the frangible lock insert
Data Source
AI summary
A lock mechanism for a motor vehicle ignition switch includes a housing defining a barrel and a locking cylinder fitted for rotation in the barrel. A cap is fitted over one end of the housing capturing a frangible lock insert between the housing and cap. The frangible lock insert includes an electrically conductive pathway between radially displaced connection points on the rim of the insert. A circuit includes the electrically conductive pathway which is interrupted by disintegration of the frangible lock insert. Such disintegration occurs upon efforts to tamper with the lock mechanism or application of brute force to the sensor.