Spring-Loaded Key Receptacle for Automatic Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for actuating a motor vehicle's radio key in car-sharing scenarios require manual effort to pivot the signal transmitter receptacle from a closed to an open position, which can be cumbersome for users.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spring element, such as a torsion or helical spring, to apply a spring force that automatically pivots the signal transmitter mount from the closed to the open position, assisted by a braking mechanism to control the movement and a locking hook for secure closure, enhancing user comfort and ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring element is added to automatically pivot the signal transmitter receptacle, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element enables the signal transmitter receptacle to automatically pivot from closed to open position without requiring manual effort from the user. The system serves itself by using the spring's stored energy to perform the pivoting action, eliminating the need for user force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is pre-loaded in the closed position of the receptacle, storing energy in advance. When the receptacle is closed, the spring is compressed or tensioned, and this pre-stored energy is then released to automatically pivot the receptacle open when needed.
2Reliability
If a braking mechanism is added to control the pivoting movement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braking mechanism automatically regulates the pivoting movement of the receptacle without requiring external control. The brake element engages with the drive element to provide friction-based resistance, self-regulating the speed and smoothness of the pivoting action throughout the movement range.
3Reliability
If a locking hook is added to secure the receptacle in closed position, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking hook automatically engages with the counter-bearing when the receptacle is in the closed position, securing it without requiring user action. The hook is rotatably mounted and spring-loaded, allowing it to self-engage during closing and self-disengage when the receptacle is opened.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking hook acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the receptacle and the housing. It mediates the securement function by providing a positive mechanical lock through engagement with the counter-bearing, transferring and holding the closed position state.
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
The automatic swiveling open of the signal transmitter receptacle simplifies the unlocking and starting process, providing increased user comfort and convenience while maintaining secure operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (20), the spring force of which causes the signal transmitter receptacle (18) to swing open from the closed position into the open position
Implementation Method 2
The braking means (22) increases friction between the bearing extension (14) and the extension receptacle (16), which leads to a pivoting movement (pivoting open or inward) of the signal transmitter receptacle (18) being braked.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for actuating a signal transmitter, namely a radio key for a motor vehicle, with a signal transmitter receptacle pivotable about a pivot axis between a closed position and an open position for receiving the signal transmitter, characterized by a spring element whose spring force causes the signal transmitter receptacle to pivot from the closed position to the open position.