Motorcycle Top Box Locking Mechanism with Selective Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for motor vehicle top boxes or suitcases do not allow selective operation of opening/closing without simultaneously coupling or releasing from the support, and often require a key for operation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a mechanism that includes a first and second under-lock body, allowing simultaneous or selective operation of opening/closing and coupling/releasing, and can be operated remotely using a radio wave, infra-red, or Bluetooth remote control, with an electric motor and electronic control unit for automated functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key-operated lock mechanism is used for simultaneous opening/closing and coupling/releasing, then security and reliability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring physical key access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-operated lock system with an electromagnetic actuator controlled by electronic control units. This allows the locking and coupling mechanisms to be actuated electronically through buttons or remote controls, eliminating the need for physical key access while maintaining secure locking through electromagnetic force. The first electronic control unit controls the opening/closing actuator, and the second electronic control unit controls the coupling/releasing actuator, enabling keyless operation with improved convenience.
2Device complexity
If a single lock mechanism controls both opening/closing and coupling/releasing, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates because selective operation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single lock mechanism into two independent locking mechanisms: a first locking mechanism for opening/closing the top box lid, and a second locking mechanism for coupling/releasing the top box from the support. Each mechanism has its own actuator and electronic control unit. This segmentation allows selective operation where the user can choose to open the lid without detaching the box, or detach the box without opening the lid, providing adaptability while maintaining relatively simple individual mechanism designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a unified control system that can operate both locking mechanisms through a single interface (buttons or remote control). The electronic control unit receives commands and directs the appropriate actuator(s) to execute the desired function. This multi-functional control approach allows one control system to manage multiple independent functions (opening lid, detaching box, or both), achieving versatility without requiring separate control systems for each function.
3Ease of operation
If remote control operation is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional electronic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary between the user and the top box locking system. The remote control transmits wireless signals (radio frequency or infrared) to the electronic control unit, which then actuates the appropriate motor-driven locking mechanisms. This intermediary approach allows users to operate the system from a distance without physically touching the box or its controls, significantly improving ease of operation. The electronic control unit and motor actuators are integrated into the existing locking mechanism structure, minimizing additional complexity while enabling remote functionality.
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
Enables selective operation of opening/closing the top box or suitcase without affecting coupling/releasing, and allows remote operation without a key, enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an alternative embodiment also described in EP2630026, the actuation is also provided by means of an electromagnetic actuator
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device capable of allowing both the opening and closing of a top box or a suitcase for motor vehicles, and the coupling and releasing of such top box or suitcase with respect to a support element, generally a special plate, solidly fixed to the motor vehicle. The device according to the present invention allows both manual locking and unlocking, by means of a key lock, and simultaneous lock of the buttons which respectively allow the opening and closing of the top box/suitcase and the coupling and releasing of said top box/suitcase from the support element, both the automatic remote activation, of only the opening/closing of the top box, through an electronic control unit, preferably configured, but not exclusively, with a Bluetooth communication module.