Smart Ignition Lock Assembly for Keyless Peripheral Lock Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional vehicle locks require separate switches for peripheral locks, which occupy additional space and are not economical, and existing electronic locks necessitate a physical key for operation.

Innovation Solution

A multi-function smart ignition lock with a rotatable and movable knob, a rotor, micro-switch, control unit, solenoid, and rotary actuator that allows keyless operation of peripheral locks, integrated into a compact design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate switches are provided to regulate peripheral locks electronically, then electronic operation of peripheral locks is achieved, but additional space is required and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectronic operation of peripheral locksVSAvoidnumber of separate switches and components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the ignition lock mechanism with peripheral lock control functionality by integrating a rotary actuator that can operate both the main ignition lock and peripheral locks (seat lock, fuel tank lock) through a single integrated switch assembly, eliminating the need for separate switches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated switch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate the ignition lock, seat lock, and fuel tank lock through different rotational positions of a single knob, making one component serve multiple locking functions

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

2Reliability

If a physical key is used for opening peripheral locks, then reliable locking is achieved, but convenience is reduced and key management becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoidkeyless operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical key-based locking system with an electronic control system where a microswitch and control unit detect the ignition key position and automatically actuate the peripheral locks, eliminating the need for separate physical keys

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate locking mechanisms are provided, then comprehensive lock coverage is achieved, but space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage of multiple locksVSAvoidspace occupied by locking mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple locking mechanisms into a single integrated assembly where the rotary actuator can selectively engage different locking points (ignition lock, seat lock, fuel tank lock) through rotational movement, consolidating what would traditionally require separate mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables keyless operation of peripheral locks, reducing space requirements and cost, while ensuring secure and efficient vehicle lock management.

Implementation Method 1

The ignition lock further comprises at least one micro-switch, a control unit and a solenoid. The solenoid is configured to drive a lever.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Implementation Method 2

the control unit, the control unit being configured to identify an authentic key through RFID communication

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRFID communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3707034B1A multi-function smart ignition lock for vehicles
Publication Date: 2026.03.11 MINDA
  • EP3707034B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3707034B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3707034B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure discloses a multi-function smart ignition lock for vehicles. The said ignition lock comprises a knob (1) being rotatable about a longitudinal axis YY between a plurality of switching positions. The knob is configured to be movable along axis YY in a downward direction at a pre-determined position. A rotor (2) is rotatably coupled with the knob (1) and is configured to operate a lock bar (12) to selectively lock/unlock a handle bar of the vehicle. An actuator sub assembly having at least one micro-switch (8) a control unit and a solenoid (3). The solenoid (3) is configured to drive a lever (3A). The lever (3A) is engageable with the rotor to selectively restrict the rotation of the rotor (2). A rotary actuator (14) is selectively engageable with the rotor (2). The rotary actuator (14) is configured to operate one or more peripheral locks of the vehicle.