Rotating Motorcycle Ignition Cover Concealing Keyhole

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Exposed ignition switches on motorcycles are vulnerable to vandalism, theft, and environmental damage, and existing covers are not decorative or easily detachable, interfering with operation.

Innovation Solution

A decorative ignition switch cover resembling a firearm cylinder with an annular base member and secure fastening mechanism, allowing easy concealment and protection from dirt and moisture while maintaining operational accessibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an ignition switch cover is installed to protect the ignition switch from vandalism and environmental damage, then the reliability and protection of the ignition switch is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the cover interferes with accessing the ignition switch or keyhole

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveignition switch protectionVSAvoidaccess to ignition switch
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The ignition switch cover is divided into a stationary outer cover and a rotatable inner component. The rotatable inner component can be rotated to align with the stationary cover, creating an opening that exposes the keyhole. This segmentation allows the cover to maintain protection while enabling access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cover incorporates a rotatable inner component that can dynamically change its position. When rotated to align with the stationary cover, it creates an opening for key insertion. This dynamic element transforms the cover from a static barrier into an adjustable protective structure that balances security and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Shape

If a decorative ignition switch cover is used to personalize motorcycle appearance, then the aesthetic quality is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to complex decorative features

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The decorative cover is segmented into a stationary outer cover and a rotatable inner component. This segmentation allows the decorative elements to be applied to separate parts that can be manufactured independently, then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining aesthetic quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotatable inner component serves multiple functions: it provides decorative elements for aesthetic personalization, creates the opening mechanism for key access, and aligns with the stationary cover to secure the assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the ignition switch cover is made secure to prevent theft and vandalism, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens because the user must manipulate the cover to access the ignition switch

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetheft preventionVSAvoidkeyhole accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The inner component is designed to be rotatable rather than fixed. This dynamic feature allows the cover to maintain a secure, closed position for theft prevention while enabling the user to rotate it open for key access. The rotational mechanism provides a simple, intuitive operation that balances security with ease of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The opening mechanism is extracted as a separate rotatable component rather than being integrated into the stationary cover. This allows the opening function to be performed by a distinct element that can be manipulated independently, maintaining the integrity and security of the main cover structure while providing access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS9103140B2Motorcycle key ignition switch cover
Publication Date: 2015.08.11 ARELLANEZ JR RICHARD
  • US9103140B2 patent drawing
  • US9103140B2 patent drawing
  • US9103140B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is an ornamental ignition switch cover for a motorcycle that provides a decorative and functional appearance while concealing the underlying ignition switch, ignition key, or the keyhole. The device takes the form of a knob or a lever made from metal or other suitable material. The knob portion includes a hollow cavity that provides coverage for the underlying ignition key or the keyhole. The knob portion connects to the ignition switch by an attachment mechanism, such as screws or magnets, which are provided on the knob portion or are provided about the ignition switch perimeter. In this way, the device provides an ignition cover with an outward look of a firearm cylinder or other personalized cover while concealing the presence of the ignition key or the keyhole. The device rotates clockwise or counterclockwise so that it may be locked and unlocked.