Vehicle Wheel Locking Boot With Keypad-Locked Lug Nut Shield
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for enforcing parking regulations, such as towing vehicles, are time-consuming and costly, and there is a need for an efficient and cost-effective solution to immobilize vehicles with unpaid parking fines.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle locking boot with an oversized lug nut cover and pad is designed to be attached to a vehicle's wheel, preventing the vehicle from being moved until unpaid fines are settled. The boot features a keypad for locking and unlocking, and a lug nut blocking plate with a pad to secure the wheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If towing is used to immobilize vehicles with unpaid fines, then vehicles can be removed from illegal parking spaces, but it is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vehicle immobilization function from the towing process by applying a locking boot directly to the wheel, separating the immobilization action from the time-consuming towing operation. This allows immediate immobilization without requiring tow truck deployment and retrieval
Solution Approach 2:
The locking boot serves as an intermediary device between enforcement authorities and the vehicle, providing a mechanical means of immobilization that eliminates the need for direct towing intervention. The boot mediates the enforcement action by physically preventing wheel rotation
2Reliability
If towing is used to immobilize vehicles, then vehicles can be secured, but associated costs increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The locking boot is designed as a relatively simple, inexpensive device compared to towing operations. The boot can be applied and removed multiple times, serving as a cost-effective alternative to repeated towing expenses while maintaining reliable immobilization
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a standard lug nut cover is used, then the wheel is partially protected, but it does not effectively prevent vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking boot incorporates an expansion mechanism that transitions from a compact state during application to an expanded state during operation. The boot expands to contact the wheel tire and lug nuts simultaneously, providing both protection and effective immobilization through dynamic structural change
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single device: the locking boot simultaneously protects the lug nuts, contacts the tire to prevent rotation, and provides structural support for the locking mechanism. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate protective covers while enhancing immobilization reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle locking boot includes a horizontal support arm and a first vertical support arm extending from the horizontal support arm. The first vertical support arm includes a front engagement protrusion extending therefrom. A receiving sleeve extends from the horizontal support arm at a base of the first vertical support arm. A horizontal extension portion is coupled to the horizontal support arm. A second vertical support arm extends from the horizontal extension portion along a direction orthogonal to the upper surface of the horizontal support arm. The second vertical support arm includes a rear engagement protrusion extending therefrom. The front engagement protrusion faces the rear engagement protrusion. A keypad is disposed on the first engagement portion. The keypad is configured to lock and unlock the horizontal extension portion. A lug nut blocking plate is coupled to the first vertical support arm above the first engagement protrusion.