Wireless Bicycle Cable Locking for Dockless Sharing Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle sharing programs face challenges such as limited dock availability, inconvenience for users, and significant initial investment, while also struggling with bicycle theft due to inadequate security measures.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a spring coil mechanism and communication unit that allows for secure attachment and remote unlocking of bicycles to structures, enabling secure sharing and reducing theft through wireless communication with a remote device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dock-based bicycle sharing programs are implemented, then bicycles can be securely locked and shared, but the number of docks is limited and requires significant initial investment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking mechanism from the dock infrastructure, placing it directly on the bicycle. The locking device includes a lock body, cable, and spring coil mechanism that can be attached to the bicycle frame, eliminating the need for fixed docks while maintaining secure locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device serves multiple functions: it secures the bicycle to structures, enables remote sharing through wireless communication, provides tamper detection, and allows for location tracking. This multi-functionality replaces the need for specialized dock infrastructure
2Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then bicycles can be secured, but remote unlocking and sharing capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with an electronically controlled system. The lock body includes a motorized cable release mechanism controlled by a communication unit that receives wireless signals from remote devices, enabling keyless operation and remote unlocking
Solution Approach 2:
The communication unit acts as an intermediary between the user's remote device and the locking mechanism. It processes wireless communications, authenticates users, and controls the cable release mechanism, enabling seamless remote access without physical contact
3Ease of operation
If dockless bicycle sharing is allowed in any location, then user convenience increases, but bicycles may be left in inappropriate locations affecting community aesthetics and traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device includes location tracking capability and communication with a remote server that provides feedback to users about appropriate parking locations. The system can notify users when they are in restricted zones and guide them to acceptable areas, balancing convenience with community standards
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 provides secure locking and sharing of bicycles with reduced initial investment, enhancing user convenience and reducing theft by allowing remote unlocking and tamper alerts, thus addressing the limitations of existing programs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring coil mechanism within the lock body for coiling the cable within the lock body and enabling the cable to be selectively extended from the lock body
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device includes a lock body configured to be secured to a part of a bicycle, a cable within the lock body and having a first end accessible from an exterior of the lock body, a spring coil mechanism within the lock body for coiling the cable within the lock body and enabling the cable to be selectively extended from the lock body to lock the bicycle to a separate structure by wrapping the cable around the separate structure and then locking the first end of the cable to the lock body, and a communication and control unit incorporated into the lock body and configured to communicate with a remote device to allow the remote device to wirelessly unlock the first end of the cable from the lock body.