Single-Track Vehicle Seat Bench Sensor-Controlled Unlocking

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for unlocking seats in single-track vehicles, such as motorcycles, are cumbersome and often require two-handed operations, making it inconvenient for drivers, especially when accessing storage compartments under the seat.

Innovation Solution

A method and device utilizing an actuator controlled by a sensor system and control unit that automatically unlocks the seat based on detected operating parameters, such as ignition status, proximity of a radio key, wheel speed, and occupancy, allowing single-handed operation and enhanced safety features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the seat is unlocked using the ignition key, then the seat can be opened, but the operation becomes cumbersome and requires two-handed operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseat unlocking operationVSAvoidunlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The unlocking function is segmented into multiple independent components: a first actuating element for manual operation, a second actuating element for remote operation, and a control unit that processes signals from either element. This segmentation allows the system to offer multiple unlocking methods without requiring complex integration, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary between the actuating elements and the locking mechanism. It receives signals from either the first or second actuating element and translates them into the appropriate unlocking action. This intermediary component simplifies the overall system by centralizing the control logic, making the unlocking process easier while managing complexity within the control unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the seat unlocking is simplified for easy access, then operating comfort improves, but the risk of accidental release increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseat access convenienceVSAvoidaccidental release prevention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed with dynamic characteristics where the locking element can be actively engaged or disengaged based on control signals. The control unit dynamically evaluates signals from actuating elements and only triggers unlocking when appropriate conditions are met. This dynamic control allows easy intentional unlocking while preventing accidental release through active signal verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit implements feedback by monitoring signals from the actuating elements and the state of the locking mechanism. It processes these feedback signals to determine whether to engage or disengage the locking element. This feedback mechanism ensures that unlocking only occurs when properly initiated, balancing ease of operation with prevention of accidental release.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4367008B1Method and device for unlocking a seat bench of a single-track motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.08.20 BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE AG
  • EP4367008B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4367008B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for unlocking a seat bench (2) of a single-track motor vehicle using at least one actuator (3) for locking and unlocking the seat bench (2) by means of a locking element (4), wherein an actuation element (7) for the actuator (3) is formed on the seat bench (2), and the single-track motor vehicle has a sensor system (8) for detecting current operating parameters (9) of the single-track motor vehicle and a controller (5) for controlling the actuator (3), at least one specified value (6) for the corresponding operating parameter (9) being stored in the controller (5). According to the method, the corresponding operating parameter (9) is continuously detected by means of the sensor system (8), and the detected operating parameter (9) is then compared with the respective corresponding specified value (6) by means of the controller (5). If, upon comparing the detected operating parameter (9), the operating parameter corresponds to the corresponding specified value (6) and a driver actuates the actuation element (7), the controller (5) controls the actuator (3) such that the seat bench (2) is unlocked by means of the unlocking element (4). The invention additionally relates to a device (1) for carrying out the method.