Remote Ignition Key Turner with Cable Pulley Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote ignition tools for vehicles are cumbersome, difficult to set up, and lack the ability to easily turn the ignition key on and off, especially when access is confined, such as under the hood, and often require air pressure systems that are inefficient and take up significant storage space.
Innovation Solution
A remote ignition key turning device featuring a key holder connected to a pulley plate via a cable system with a hand-held control unit and a spring-loaded mechanism, allowing for easy operation of the ignition key from under the hood without the need for air pressure, with adjustable components for various key types and securement methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional push button tools are used to remotely operate ignition, then the engine can be started, but the device is difficult to use and requires significant storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a key holder assembly with pulley plate that interfaces with the ignition key, and a handheld control unit with cable. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies storage and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A cable system with pulleys acts as an intermediary mechanism between the handheld control unit and the key holder. The cable transmits force through the pulley plate to rotate the key holder, providing mechanical advantage and ease of operation while keeping the control unit compact.
2Productivity
If air pressure systems are used to remotely start an engine, then the engine can be started, but the setup time is longer and air hose management is problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex pneumatic systems with a simple mechanical cable-pulley system. The cable runs through a pulley plate and connects to a spring mechanism, eliminating the need for air hoses, compressors, and pressure regulation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring-loaded mechanism automatically returns the pulley plate to its initial position after the key is turned, eliminating the need for manual reset or complex control systems. The spring provides automatic reset functionality that simplifies operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional devices are used to remotely operate ignition, then the engine can be started, but they cannot turn off the engine or handle keys that require pushing in
Solution Approach 1:
The key holder assembly is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate different key types, including keys that require pushing in before turning. The pulley plate mechanism provides multi-directional rotation capability, enabling both starting and stopping functions, as well as handling various key insertion methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements including a spring-loaded return mechanism that automatically reverses the key rotation direction. This allows the same mechanical structure to perform multiple functions: turning the key on, turning it off, and adapting to different key types without requiring separate devices.
4Area of stationary object
If conventional tools are used in confined hood areas, then ignition operation is possible, but access is difficult and wire tracing is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts the complex wiring and connection requirements from the system by using a mechanical cable-pulley interface instead of electrical connections. The cable can be routed through confined spaces more easily than wires, and the pulley plate provides a compact interface that fits in limited hood areas.
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 quick and efficient remote operation of a vehicle's ignition, allowing for diagnostic tests and engine cranking without the need for an assistant, with a compact and easy-to-use design that can handle different key types and securement requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient pulling mechanism attached to the pulley plate, the resilient pulling mechanism applying a force to turn the pulley plate in a first rotational direction
Implementation Method 2
a cable having a first end disposed about an outer periphery of the pulley plate and extending therefrom
Implementation Method 3
rotation of the pulley plate causes rotation of the key holder
Data Source
AI summary
A tool can be attached to a vehicle key in the ignition switch of a vehicle and the operator can turn on the key, crank the engine, bump start, or turn off the engine. These operations can be performed while the operator is under the hood, for example, by operating a cable pull and release unit. The tool can be used to turn the ignition switch on to perform various diagnostic and vehicle lighting tests. The tool includes a hand held control unit that moves a cable within a housing when the handles of the control unit are squeezed from an initial position, toward each other. The cable causes a key turner to turn. A spring-loaded return mechanism causes the key turner to turn the key in reverse (in an off position) when the handles of the hand held control unit are moved back to the initial position.