Remote Luggage Compartment Locking Mechanism for Multi-Rod Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage compartment locking mechanisms in buses require manual operation and significant force to control multiple locks, with no fully automated system available, necessitating user intervention at the handle and lacking remote-control functionality.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a remote actuation system that allows operation of connection rods associated with auxiliary drivers via a rotary driver, handle body, transmission element, and micro switch, enabling remote control from outside the compartment and reducing manual effort, suitable for up to six locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of the handle is used to control multiple connection rods, then the locking mechanism can be operated, but significant force is required and the operation becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation system with an automated actuation system. An actuator (electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic) is introduced to automatically drive the rotary driver, eliminating the need for manual handle operation. This substitution transforms the mechanical advantage system into an automated control system that requires minimal user effort (simple button press) while maintaining the capability to control multiple connection rods.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is pre-positioned and pre-configured within the locking mechanism housing, ready to engage with the rotary driver when activated. The system prepares the actuation force in advance through the actuator's internal mechanism (motor, piston, or diaphragm), so that when the activation signal is received, the force is immediately available to rotate the rotary driver and control all connection rods simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the user must go to the handle to operate the locking mechanism, then the locks can be controlled, but remote control functionality is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary activation mechanism (button, switch, or sensor) that mediates between the user and the locking mechanism. This intermediary component allows the user to trigger the actuator remotely without physically approaching the handle. The intermediary sends an activation signal (mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic) that initiates the actuator's motion, which then drives the rotary driver and controls the connection rods.
Solution Approach 2:
The direct mechanical connection between user input and lock actuation is replaced with an automated actuation system. The actuator serves as an intermediate mechanical system that converts various input forms (electrical signal, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic force) into rotational motion of the rotary driver, enabling remote operation while maintaining mechanical control over the connection rods.
3Productivity
If a plurality of connection rods must be controlled manually, then all locks can be operated, but the operation requires significant time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple connection rods into a single integrated rotary driver mechanism. All connection rods are simultaneously actuated through the rotation of one rotary driver, which is driven by a single actuator. This merging of control functions allows all locks to be operated in unison with a single activation action, dramatically improving productivity and eliminating the time loss associated with sequential manual operation of each lock.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is pre-configured to simultaneously engage and drive the rotary driver, which in turn simultaneously actuates all connection rods. The system prepares the mechanical linkage and force transmission paths in advance, so that when activation occurs, all locks are controlled at the same moment rather than sequentially, maximizing operational efficiency and minimizing time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for luggage compartment doors of vehicles for operating a plurality of connection rods associated with auxiliary drivers includes a main body; a rotary driver arranged to drive, in use, the plurality of connection rods; a handle body associated with a transmission element rigidly joined to the handle body to transmit displacement of the handle body to the rotary driver; and a longitudinal lock guide arranged to displace to selectively enable a retaining means associated with a guiding member bear against the transmission element's tip portion to drive the rotary driver. The locking mechanism includes a remote actuation means which is arranged to move a portion of the rotary driver for a rotational movement of the rotary driver to operate the plurality of connection rods.