Vehicle Tray Locking Module with Touch Pad

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional vehicle trays lack a secure locking mechanism, making them susceptible to theft and compromising user convenience as they require a key for locking and unlocking operations.

Innovation Solution

A tray device with a locking module integrated into the cover, featuring a touch pad for touch operation unlocking and an unlocking module for key operation, including a RF receiver and infrared sensor for enhanced security and convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a key-based locking device is added to the tray, then security against theft is improved, but user convenience deteriorates because locking and unlocking operations require inserting and operating a key

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-based locking system with an electronic control system. The locking module (120) is controlled by a control unit (103) that receives signals from various input devices such as a touch sensor, remote controller, or card reader, eliminating the need for physical key insertion and operation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The tray system provides self-service locking and unlocking functionality where the system automatically authenticates and executes locking/unlocking operations based on user input through the touch sensor or other input devices, without requiring manual key manipulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If a touch pad-based electronic locking system is implemented, then user convenience is improved through touch operation, but device complexity increases due to additional electronic components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit (103) serves multiple functions: it controls the locking module (120), processes inputs from the touch sensor (130), communicates with the vehicle's central control system, and manages various unlocking methods (touch, remote, card). This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise be separate systems into a single integrated unit, reducing overall complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the touch sensor (130), locking module (120), and control unit (103) into an integrated assembly that is part of the tray system. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate control systems and reduces the number of discrete components that would need to be coordinated independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple unlocking methods (touch pad, key, smart key, card key) are provided, then adaptability and user convenience are improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveunlocking method versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit (103) is designed to handle multiple types of input and authentication methods through a single interface. It can process touch sensor inputs, remote controller signals, and card reader data, providing versatile unlocking options without requiring separate control systems for each method.

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

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 tray device provides secure locking and unlocking functionality through touch pad operation, ensuring user convenience and security, with the option to forcibly open using a key in case of touch pad failure, thereby enhancing both user experience and security.

Implementation Method 1

A radio frequency (RF) receiver interworking with the card may be provided in the touch pad

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio frequency (RF): Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

and may have an infrared sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation: Infrared Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS10407949B2Tray device for vehicle
Publication Date: 2019.09.10 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US10407949B2 patent drawing
  • US10407949B2 patent drawing
  • US10407949B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tray device for a vehicle may include a tray provided in the vehicle and having a cover configured for being opened, a locking module provided in the cover to lock or unlock the cover, and a touch pad provided on an outer side of the cover and interworking with the locking module to unlock the cover through a touch operation.