Electric Motor Locking Mechanism for Motorcycle Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing locking mechanisms for storage compartments in motorized two-wheelers require the vehicle key for each opening and closing, making the operation inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A control unit coupled to a locking mechanism that can be actuated by an electric motor, where an input signal from a switch or a wireless transmitter allows the lid to be opened without the need for a physical key, with a spring element biasing the lid into an open position for easy access and secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a key-operated locking mechanism is used for the storage compartment, then the storage compartment can be securely locked, but the operation becomes inconvenient as the vehicle key is needed every time the storage compartment is opened or closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-operated locking mechanism with an electric motor-driven locking mechanism. The control unit receives signals from switches (or wireless transmitters) and actuates the electric motor to move the locking mechanism between locked and unlocked positions, eliminating the need for physical key insertion and turning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the user to operate the storage compartment locking mechanism through simple switch activation (or wireless signal) without requiring manual key manipulation. The electric motor automatically performs the locking and unlocking actions based on control signals, making the system serve itself rather than requiring direct mechanical intervention.
2Ease of operation
If an electric motor is added to automate the locking mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it receives signals from switches or wireless transmitters, processes these signals, and controls the electric motor accordingly. The electric motor itself serves dual purposes by both unlocking the storage compartment and potentially locking it, reducing the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the locking and unlocking functions into a single electric motor-driven mechanism controlled by a unified control unit. The switch (or wireless transmitter) and control unit are integrated to form a cohesive control system, reducing the number of separate components compared to having distinct mechanical locking and unlocking mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the storage compartment lid is pre-tensioned into an open position, then ease of opening is improved, but the lid may not remain securely closed
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-installed and pre-tensioned to automatically push the storage compartment lid into the open position as soon as the locking mechanism is unlocked. This preliminary mechanical action eliminates the need for the user to manually pull or lift the lid, making opening effortless while the spring remains engaged during the closed state to maintain security.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as an intermediary mechanical component between the locking mechanism and the lid. It mediates the transition from locked to open state by storing and releasing mechanical energy, ensuring the lid opens smoothly and remains securely closed when latched without requiring direct user force.
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
Enhances user convenience by eliminating the need for a physical key and providing secure, easy access to the storage compartment, while maintaining theft protection and allowing for easy maintenance of the electric motor.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element is preferably arranged under the lid of the storage compartment, which pre-tensions the lid into an open position
Data Source
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AI summary
An assembly comprises a storage compartment (12) on a motorized two-wheeled vehicle, which has a lockable lid (14) onto which a locking mechanism (18) engages which can be moved into a locking position and into an opening position, and which prevents the lid (14) from being opened in the locking position, and an electric motor (20) that is connected to the locking mechanism (18) so that it can move same into the opening position in which the lid (14) is released. The electric motor (20) is connected to a control unit (28) which actuates the electric motor (20) upon an input signal.