Segmented Lock Device for Motorized Equipment Theft Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices for motorized equipment, such as riding lawn mowers, are cumbersome, expensive, and time-consuming to install and remove, failing to effectively deter theft.
Innovation Solution
A lock device with a planar main body and adjustable arms that secure the handles of motorized vehicles, allowing for easy installation and removal, using securing elements like zip ties or locks to prevent the vehicle from being started until the device is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking boots are used to lock a wheel of the vehicle, then theft prevention is achieved, but the device becomes large, cumbersome, expensive, and time-consuming to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate components: a main body and multiple pairs of arms that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the device to be easily assembled and disassembled while maintaining its anti-theft functionality, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The arms are designed to be adjustable and reconfigurable, allowing them to be positioned at different locations and orientations. This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to different vehicle types and configurations, improving both ease of operation and versatility without compromising theft prevention.
2Reliability
If conventional locking boots are used to lock a wheel of the vehicle, then theft prevention is achieved, but the device becomes large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the locking device into a compact main body and separate arm components, the overall volume is reduced while maintaining functional integrity. The segmented design allows for more efficient space utilization compared to conventional bulky locking boots.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a three-dimensional bulky boot structure to a primarily two-dimensional planar configuration with extendable arms. This dimensional change significantly reduces the volume occupied by the device while preserving its locking capability.
3Reliability
If conventional locking boots are used to lock a wheel of the vehicle, then theft prevention is achieved, but the device becomes expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design with standardized components (main body, arms, fastening elements) enables modular manufacturing and assembly, reducing production costs compared to conventional integrated locking boots. This approach allows for easier manufacturing while maintaining theft prevention effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be universally applicable to various vehicle types through its adjustable arm configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized locking devices, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable theft prevention across different applications.
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to an anti-theft device for use with a motorized vehicle, such as a riding lawn mower. The device comprises a main body defined by first and second ends. Each end of the device comprises a pair of arms, each with a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of each arm includes an aperture sized and shaped to allow a lock or other securing element to pass therethrough. For example, with riding lawn mowers, the disclosed device can be used to lock the mower handles in an “off” position, so that the mower cannot be started until the device is removed.