Stepper Motor Handbrake Locking Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handbrake anti-theft devices are vulnerable to tampering, bulky, and expensive, and often forgotten to be engaged, as they can be bypassed using tools or brute force, and lack user convenience in operation.
Innovation Solution
A handbrake locking device featuring a rotatable locking bar operated by a stepper motor, which moves between a release enablement and prevention position, secured by a locking bar support with a terminal wall and detent, integrated with the vehicle's central locking system for remote operation, ensuring secure and convenient immobilization of the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking collar or complex mechanism is used to prevent handbrake movement, then security against theft is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential locking function from complex existing devices and implements it through a simple rotatable bar that can be positioned to block or allow handbrake operation. This minimalistic approach achieves security without the complexity of locking collars or multiple mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable bar serves multiple functions: it acts as a physical barrier to prevent theft, integrates with the existing handbrake mechanism, and can be controlled through various means (manual, electronic, remote). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated anti-theft devices.
2Reliability
If a locking collar or separate device is connected to the handbrake lever, then immobilization capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to forgetting to engage/disengage
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the existing handbrake system rather than being a separate device. The rotatable bar integrates into the handbrake mechanism itself, allowing the anti-theft function to be engaged or disengaged simultaneously with normal handbrake operation, eliminating the risk of forgetting to activate it.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can be designed to automatically engage the locking bar when the vehicle is parked and disengage it when the vehicle is driven, making the system self-regulating. This eliminates the need for user intervention to remember to engage the anti-theft feature.
3Reliability
If a standard lock with key is used in the locking device, then security is improved, but vulnerability to tampering increases due to lock picking or forcing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical lock-and-key systems with alternative actuation methods such as electronic motors, solenoids, or remote-controlled mechanisms. This substitution eliminates vulnerable mechanical lock points that can be picked or forced, while maintaining the ability to securely control the locking bar position.
4Reliability
If locking collars or devices are connected around the handbrake lever, then anti-theft protection is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to bulkiness and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable bar is a simple, inexpensive component that can be manufactured at low cost using basic materials and processes. Unlike expensive locking collars or complex mechanical devices, this minimalistic design uses straightforward geometry and can be produced efficiently through conventional manufacturing methods.
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 handbrake release by securing the locking bar in a position that requires motor operation to change, enhancing security and convenience by integrating with the vehicle's central locking system, reducing the likelihood of tampering and ensuring the handbrake is easily engaged and disengaged with remote control.
Implementation Method 1
The locking device may comprise a motor to which the locking bar is connected at one end, and which may be operated to effect rotational movement of the locking bar. The motor may be a stepper motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
AI summary
A handbrake lever assembly (2) locking device (12) comprises a locking bar (14) arranged in use to be located beneath a handbrake lever (4), the locking bar being rotatable between a handbrake release enablement position (14F) in which the handbrake can be operated, and a handbrake release prevention position (14L) in which the handbrake is prevented from being released, in use. The handbrake release button (6) operates whether the handbrake is locked or unlocked. The locking bar is driven by a motor (16), which may be a stepper motor. A locking bar support or housing (18), which may comprise a terminal wall (22) and a detent (24), may be located on the opposite side of the lever (4) to the motor (16). The lock may be locked or unlocked by the vehicle central locking system and/or the vehicle ignition switch.