Motorcycle Steering Column Locking Mechanism with Zone-Based Bolt Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-theft devices for locking steering columns in vehicles, particularly motorcycles, are complex and prone to locking defects that can lead to accidents due to multi-notch locking mechanisms, and require active human intervention for unlocking, which may not guarantee the correct user's action.
Innovation Solution
A simplified mechanical and electronic device that locks the steering column only at the ends of its rotational range, using an actuator controlled by a hands-free subassembly, allowing automatic locking during stops or low-speed maneuvers and preventing accidental locking during normal operation, with features like user authentication and speed measurement to ensure secure and safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-notch lock mechanism is used for steering column locking, then the locking coverage is improved (can lock at multiple positions), but the reliability deteriorates (locking defects can occur every 5 degrees, potentially blocking handlebars and causing accidents on motorcycles)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from continuous multi-position capability and concentrates it at specific safe positions only (ends of angular stroke). The bolt is designed to engage locking zones only at extreme positions, removing the harmful intermediate locking positions that could block handlebars during motorcycle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism applies different functional qualities to different regions of the angular stroke. The ends of the stroke have locking zones with engaged bolts for security, while the central operating zone has retracted bolts that allow free handlebar movement, preventing accidents during normal motorcycle operation.
2Ease of operation
If automatic locking is implemented using electronic control and actuators, then the ease of operation is improved (no manual intervention needed), but the device complexity increases (requires electronic control box, actuators, sensors)
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic locking and unlocking without requiring user intervention. The control box receives signals from the hands-free subassembly and automatically controls the actuator to position the bolt in locking or unlocked states, making the system self-serving and eliminating manual operation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical locking operations with an electronic control system. The control box, actuator, and sensor replace the need for manual key insertion or mechanical locking mechanisms, using electronic signals and motorized actuation to achieve locking functions.
3Reliability
If manual unlocking action is required from the user, then the reliability is improved (guarantees user awareness and intentional action), but the ease of operation deteriorates (requires additional manual effort and energy from battery for actuators)
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages locking and unlocking states based on signals from the hands-free subassembly. The control box receives authentication signals and automatically actuates the bolt position, eliminating the need for manual user actions such as turning keys or pressing mechanical release mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical unlocking actions are replaced with electronic control and motorized actuation. The actuator, controlled by the electronic control box, performs the mechanical work of positioning the bolt, replacing the need for manual user effort and mechanical key operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (D) for the steering column of a motorcycle (M) comprising a first module (200) attached to the rotating mobile column and a second module (100) attached to the frame of the vehicle (M) a module (200) comprising a bolt (211) projecting towards the other module (100), the other module (100) comprising two bolts (110) projecting towards the other module (200).The two bolts (110) are arranged at the two ends of the angular stroke defined by said frame, so as to create an operating zone without possible locking between said two bolts (110), a locking zone at each end of the angular stroke so that said bolt (211) can only reach the end of the angular stroke and the corresponding locking zone in the retracted position of the bolt (211) or the bolts (110), the deployment of said bolt (211) or the bolts (110) in the operating zone defined between the two bolts (110) preventing said bolt (211) from passing into the locking zone during the normal operation of the vehicle.