Secure Vehicle Storage Compartment with Override Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locking mechanisms in automotive storage compartments are not robust enough to prevent access from determined thieves, especially in vehicles with convertible tops or windows down, as they can be easily compromised using tools like crowbars or by exploiting motion detection systems that may trigger false alarms.
Innovation Solution
A secure storage compartment system utilizing a door latch with a lock actuator and override control, which renders electronic door handles inoperable and a cinching system to maintain the door closed, preventing access when activated, and can be controlled via a graphic user interface, portable RF switch, or telematics controller, ensuring the compartment remains locked even without power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard lock actuator is used on the storage compartment, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the security against determined thieves is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested locking system where an override control mechanism is integrated within the existing door latch structure. The override control contains additional locking components that nest within the standard latch assembly, creating multiple layers of security without requiring a completely separate locking system. This allows the patent to enhance security against determined thieves while maintaining reasonable device complexity by building upon the existing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is segmented into two independent control paths: the standard lock actuator for normal operation and the override control for enhanced security. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently - the standard actuator maintains simplicity for everyday use, while the override control provides robust security features. The segmented architecture prevents the entire system from becoming overly complex while still achieving high reliability.
2Reliability
If motion detection systems are used to detect theft, then security monitoring is provided, but false alarms are triggered when windows are down or convertible top is open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a physically isolated secure compartment that is sealed off from the vehicle's interior environment. When the override control is activated, the compartment door is mechanically locked in a closed position, creating a localized secure zone. This isolation prevents air movement from open windows or convertible tops from triggering motion sensors, as the sensors are either excluded from the secure compartment or shielded from false triggers by the sealed door assembly.
3Reliability
If the storage compartment is made highly secure with additional locking mechanisms, then security against theft is improved, but the cost and structural changes required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The override control mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to reduce manufacturing costs. The same override control assembly serves multiple purposes: it locks the compartment door against forced entry, it prevents the standard lock actuator from disengaging, and it can integrate with existing vehicle security systems. By making the override control multi-functional rather than adding separate systems for each security need, the patent reduces overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining high security standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the override control functionality with the existing door latch and lock actuator systems. Rather than creating a completely separate locking mechanism, the override control is integrated into the existing structural framework of the storage compartment assembly. This merging approach allows the patent to enhance security without requiring entirely new structural components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the production process.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage compartment in a vehicle is covered by closing a vehicle door over the storage compartment. The storage compartment may be disposed in an end cap, the door, or part of the door frame. An electronic locking system with mechanical latches, a cinching door system, or an electronic latching system with fully electronic latches may be adapted to include a lock override control. The lock override control may be actuated by a graphic view interface, a portable radio frequency switch, or a telematics controller.