Motorcycle Fuel Cap Locking Mechanism with ECU Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motorcycle systems that rely on a locking mechanism for the fuel tank cap to prevent engine start when the cap is not locked can lead to noise issues due to the cap becoming unlocked during operation, causing rumbling or vibration.
Innovation Solution
A motorcycle with an electrically operated locking mechanism that includes an ECU to prevent unlocking of the opening/closing member when the engine is running, using an operation switch positioned away from the opening/closing member, and a solenoid for locking and unlocking, ensuring the cap remains locked during engine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism with an operation knob near the cap is used, then the cap can be locked to prevent engine start when not properly closed, but the cap may become unlocked during running causing rumbling noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the operation switch from the opening/closing member (cap), placing the switch in a different location that is not affected by cap movement. This segmentation allows the locking control function to be independent from the cap's physical state, preventing unintended unlocking during engine operation while maintaining reliable locking when the cap is properly closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) as an intermediary between the operation switch and the lock actuator. The ECU judges whether the engine is immobilized or stopping based on engine speed and running speed, and only permits unlocking when appropriate conditions are met. This intermediary control layer prevents the cap from becoming unlocked during running, thereby eliminating rumbling noise while maintaining secure locking during operation.
2Ease of operation
If the operation switch is positioned near the opening/closing member, then operation is convenient, but the switch may be affected by vibration and movement during engine operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent spatially segments the operation switch from the opening/closing member, positioning the switch in a location远离 (away from) the cap. This separation ensures the switch is not subjected to vibration and movement forces that affect the cap during engine operation, thereby maintaining reliable switch operation while still providing reasonable accessibility to the rider.
3Adaptability or versatility
If unlocking is permitted during engine operation, then the cap can be opened for refueling or storage, but the cap may become unlocked causing noise and potential safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The ECU acts as an intelligent intermediary that selectively permits or prevents unlocking based on real-time judgment of engine state. The ECU determines whether the engine is immobilized or stopping based on engine speed and running speed parameters. Unlocking is only permitted when the engine is truly stopped or immobilized, not merely when the rider releases the clutch or stops throttling. This precise control maintains opening flexibility when appropriate while preventing unintended unlocking during operation that would cause rumbling noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control where the ECU continuously monitors engine speed and running speed, and uses this feedback to dynamically control the locking state. The locking status is adjusted based on the current engine operation state, ensuring the cap remains securely locked during running while allowing opening when the engine is properly stopped, thus preventing rumbling noise while maintaining necessary adaptability.
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
Prevents the noise and vibration caused by the opening/closing member unlocking during running by ensuring the cap remains locked, enhancing the operational stability and reducing noise.
Implementation Method 1
The lock device further includes a solenoid for locking the operation knob
Data Source
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AI summary
A motorcycle is arranged to allow at least a power supply thereof to be turned on when a code of a driver accords with a code of the motorcycle, and includes a left lid (32) provided in a vehicle body so as to be able to open and close, a left lid locking mechanism (51) for locking and unlocking the left lid (32) on and from the vehicle body, and an ECU (70) for prohibiting the left lid (32) from being unlocked in the case that a condition for stopping or immobilising an engine is not satisfied.