Steering Lock Protection Cover Against Spring Destruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering wheel locking devices are vulnerable to theft as the spring-engaged blocking bolt can be easily disengaged by destroying the spring, compromising vehicle security.
Innovation Solution
A return element, such as a torsion spring, is partially covered by a protection cover, and the transmission means include a pivotable arm that serves both as a transmission and protection element, making it difficult for thieves to access and destroy, thereby enhancing security against theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the blocking bolt is engaged into the steering wheel shaft by a spring, then the locking mechanism can be realized, but the disengagement of the blocking bolt is easily achieved by destroying the spring
Solution Approach 1:
A protection cover is introduced as an intermediary element between the spring and the external environment. This cover prevents direct access to the spring, thereby eliminating the vulnerability to spring destruction while maintaining the locking mechanism's functionality. The protection cover acts as a mediator that shields the critical spring component from harmful external actions.
2Reliability
If the return element is covered by a protection cover, then the security against theft is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protection cover is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the spring from destruction, guides the blocking bolt during movement, and provides structural support for the locking mechanism. By combining multiple functions into a single component, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving enhanced security.
3Strength
If a pivotable arm is used as transmission means and protection cover, then the effort for realizing a protection cover is increased, but the robustness and protection capability are significantly improved
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable arm combines the transmission function (moving the blocking bolt between locked and unlocked positions) and the protection function (covering and shielding the spring) into a single integrated component. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate protection covers and transmission mechanisms, thereby reducing overall complexity while enhancing both strength and protection capability.
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 significantly increases the difficulty for thieves to disengage the blocking bolt, thereby improving the security of the steering wheel locking device and protecting it against violent destruction, ensuring the vehicle remains secured.
Implementation Method 1
According to the invention the return element is a torsion spring
Data Source
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AI summary
A locking device (1) for a motor vehicle, which includes a blocking bolt (2) for locking the steering wheel shaft in the steering wheel column (3) whereby the return element (4) is at least partially covered by at least one protection cover (5).