Steering Lock Anti-Backup Pin Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric steering locks do not meet the Thatcham requirements for theft protection as they can be pushed out of the locked position with strong force, compromising their security against unauthorized manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical anti-backup device featuring a spring-loaded, circular metal pin that snaps into an undercut in the base, providing resistance against push-back forces and ensuring the locking member remains engaged until unlocked, combined with a control cam mechanism for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking element is used in the steering lock, then the device can be operated easily, but it can be forced out of the locked position with strong force, failing to meet Thatcham requirements for theft protection
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into functionally independent components: the locking element (7) for normal operation and the anti-backup device (13) for security reinforcement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide both ease of operation and high security.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-backup device combines a metal pin (13) for strength and a spring (14) for elastic energy storage. This composite approach using materials with different properties creates a device that can withstand massive push-back forces while remaining compact and cost-effective.
2Reliability
If a mechanical anti-return device is added to prevent forced manipulation, then theft protection increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-backup device is designed to activate automatically when the locking element reaches the locked position. The spring (14) self-compresses and the pin (13) self-engages in the locking area (16) without requiring additional actuators, control systems, or complex mechanisms, thereby maintaining simplicity while enhancing security.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-backup device is integrated into the existing locking device structure. The pin (13) is mounted in the locking element (7) and works in conjunction with the locking area (16) on the base (11), merging the security function into the existing compact design rather than adding a separate system.
3Reliability
If the locking element is secured against movement in the locked position, then unauthorized manipulation is prevented, but the ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring (14) acts as an intermediary that stores energy during the locking operation and automatically releases it to engage the pin (13) in the locking area (16). This mediator enables the security function to activate automatically during normal operation without requiring additional user actions or complicating the operation sequence.
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 solution effectively prevents unauthorized manipulation and meets Thatcham requirements by withstanding massive push-back forces, enhancing anti-theft protection while maintaining a compact and cost-effective design.
Implementation Method 1
the pin (13) can be subjected to an elastic force in the direction of the locking position. A spring, particularly a compression spring, can be used to generate this elastic force
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (1), in particular to an electric steering system lock for a motor vehicle, with a blocking member (7), which is movable between a first and a second position, for locking a functionally relevant component. The component may be the steering shaft (4) in the steering wheel column (3), the gearshift lever or the like. In the first position, the blocking member (7) can be brought into blocking engagement with the component and, in the second position, is disengaged from the component. A drive (9) is provided for moving the blocking member (7) between the two positions. Furthermore, the locking device (1) has a securing means (13) for the blocking member (7) in the first position. The securing means (13) is arranged on the blocking member (7), specifically in particular in the manner of push-back protection for the blocking member (7) to prevent manipulations.