Mechatronic Locking Device for Electric Motorcycles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric motorcycles are prone to unwanted motion and tipping when parked due to lack of rotational resistance, posing safety risks and property damage, and existing solutions like steering locks are clumsy and unstable.
Innovation Solution
A mechatronic locking device that engages with a rotatable component in the motor transmission unit, using a pin and actuator system to immobilize the motorcycle, eliminating the need for a mechanical key and providing safety checks and tamper protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a steering lock is used to prevent unwanted motion, then the motorcycle is secured, but the vehicle becomes more unstable and the system becomes clumsy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional steering lock mechanical system with a mechatronic locking device that uses an actuator (electromagnetic or electric motor) to drive a locking pin. This substitution eliminates the need for manual key operation and provides more stable vehicle positioning by directly locking the drive wheel rather than altering steering geometry.
2Reliability
If a steering lock is used to prevent unwanted motion, then the motorcycle is secured, but the system becomes clumsy and requires a key
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is integrated with the motorcycle's existing control systems (ignition switch, brake lights, horn) and can be automatically actuated through the vehicle's control unit. The system performs self-diagnosis and can be operated without a separate mechanical key, allowing the motorcycle's existing electronics to serve the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the locking function with the motorcycle's existing control systems and electronics. The locking device shares the vehicle's power supply, control unit, and interface systems, eliminating the need for a separate key-operated steering lock system.
3Device complexity
If no locking device is used, then the system remains simple, but the motorcycle is prone to unwanted motion and tipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple mechanical locking systems with a mechatronic actuator-based locking device. The actuator (electromagnetic or electric motor) provides controlled, reliable locking action that is more effective than simple mechanical systems while maintaining integration with the vehicle's existing electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin serves as an intermediary mechanical element that translates the actuator's linear or rotational motion into a locking action against the drive wheel. This intermediary mechanism provides reliable mechanical engagement while being controlled by the mechatronic actuator system.
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 unwanted movement of electric motorcycles, enhancing safety and stability while allowing for automation and security features, applicable to both electric and internal combustion engine motorcycles.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring that biases the pin towards the first position
Implementation Method 2
a second spring positioned to allow relative motion between the locking component and the actuator pin
Implementation Method 3
a latch that is operated by the actuator and a third spring to retain the pin in the first position when the pin is in the first position
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system is used to safely immobilize electric motorcycles. The system involves a pin-based locking device that can be activated by the user via a key, remote and/or a switch located on the dashboard of the electric motorcycle. The locking device engages the pin with a component that is rotated by the transmission of the electric motorcycle. When activated, the locking device locks the transmission and prevents the motorcycle from being subjected to unwanted driving wheel rotation.