Description:A LOCK FOR A VEHICLE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The field of invention described in the provided claims relates to lock units in vehicles, specifically focusing on their integration into the handlebar 5 assembly of vehicles.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In recent years, urban transportation has evolved significantly, placing greater emphasis on sustainability and efficiency. Among the various modes of transport, two-wheeled vehicles like bicycles, electric bikes, and 10 scooters have surged in popularity due to their eco-friendliness, manoeuvrability, and suitability for short-distance travel. However, this rise in ownership has led to heightened concerns about theft and security, necessitating innovative solutions to protect these valuable assets.
[0003] Traditional locking mechanisms, such as chains and padlocks, are 15 vulnerable to picking, cutting, or breaking, leaving two-wheeled vehicles susceptible to theft. Hence, there's a pressing need for robust and technologically advanced locking systems to deter unauthorized access and ensure vehicle security.
[0004] Conventional locks often require manual operation, which can be 20 inconvenient, especially in bustling environments. Therefore, there's a demand for locking solutions that offer both convenience and security, enabling users to secure their vehicles quickly and effortlessly.
[0005] Moreover, traditional motorcycle key systems are prone to relay attacks, where thieves intercept and relay signals between the key fob and the 25 immobilizer system, allowing them to start the motorcycle without the physical key. Addressing this vulnerability requires implementing robust encryption protocols and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
[0006] While many motorcycles come equipped with standard security 30 features like steering locks and ignition immobilizers, these measures may not suffice against determined thieves who can easily bypass or disable them.
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Enhancing physical security features with reinforced locking mechanisms and tamper-resistant materials can help thwart theft attempts. [0007] Furthermore, traditional motorcycle security systems often lack remote monitoring and control capabilities, making it challenging for owners to track their motorcycles' status and take immediate action in case of theft. 5 Integrating wireless communication modules and mobile applications for remote monitoring, tracking, and immobilization can significantly enhance security.
[0008] However, retrofitting aftermarket security systems onto existing motorcycles can be complex and labour-intensive, requiring modifications to 10 the vehicle's electrical and mechanical systems. This complexity poses a barrier to adopting advanced security technologies for motorcycle owners who may be hesitant to invest in costly and time-consuming installation procedures.
[0009] Additionally, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation across 15 various motorcycle brands and models is challenging due to differences in mounting points, electrical systems, and form factors.
[00010] Moreover, balancing the need for continuous security monitoring with minimal power consumption is crucial to prevent battery drain, especially when the motorcycle is parked for extended periods. 20
[00011] Despite these challenges, there's a continuous pursuit for effective security solutions. Aftermarket alarm systems offer another option for enhancing motorcycle security by detecting unauthorized access attempts and triggering audible alarms. However, they may also have drawbacks such as false alarms triggered by environmental factors or the complexity of 25 installation.
[00012] Various physical security devices like disc locks, wheel locks, and anchor bolts provide additional layers of protection. However, they often focus on securing specific components, leaving other areas vulnerable. Additionally, manual installation and removal of these devices can be 30 inconvenient and may result in damage to the motorcycle.
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[00013] Thus there is a clear need for innovative vehicle locks that address the aforementioned challenges and provide comprehensive security solutions for motorcycle owners.
[00014] Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through 5 comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[00015] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present invention 10 provides a lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) which comprises of a frame assembly (102) consisting of a headtube (104), plurality of main tubes (106), and plurality of cross tubes (108), as well as a front panel assembly (110) comprising a front rear panel (112) and a front panel (114), and a handlebar assembly (116) consisting of plurality of fork mounting provisions (118), a 15 handlebar bridge (120), and a plurality of handlebar grips (122). In an embodiment, the handlebar bridge (120) features a protrusion (124) extending from its front edge towards the front portion of the vehicle in a contoured profile, with multiple mounting provisions (202) extending from the bottom of the protrusion towards the ground. The lock unit (126), which is configured 20 with an electronic locking mechanism, is intended to be mounted onto the mounting provisions (202) of the handlebar assembly (116). In an embodiment, encryption protocols are incorporated into the electronic locking mechanism to safeguard against unauthorized access and hacking attempts. In an embodiment, the lock unit (126) communicates with a wireless 25 communication module for remote control, authentication, and monitoring of vehicle locking status. In an embodiment, an alarm system within the lock unit (126) activates upon unauthorized access attempts. In an embodiment, it is configured to automatically lock the vehicle upon detecting the user moving away from it. In an embodiment, the mounting provisions (202) are 30 positioned within the contoured profile of the handlebar bridge (120) to ensure secure attachment and prevent interference. Furthermore, in an
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embodiment, the lock unit (126) integrates with a GPS tracking system to aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles and is configurable to allow for multiple user access levels with corresponding authorization protocols. Additionally, in an embodiment, a backup battery is provided within the lock unit (126) in case the main power source fails. Positioned between the fork mounting 5 provisions (118), in front of the handlebar bridge (120), and behind the front panel assembly (110), the lock unit (126) is positioned within the vehicle assembly. [00016] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and 10 are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00017] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a lock unit for a vehicle along with the accompanying diagrams. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and 15 components.
[00018] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00019] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the handlebar assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 20
[00020] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates a bottom view of the handlebar assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00021] Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the handlebar assembly and the lock unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 25
[00022] Figure 5 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00023] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the 30 accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers
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are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary 5 only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. [00024] An objective of the present subject matter is to implement an electronic locking mechanism with encryption protocols to safeguard against unauthorized access and hacking attempts.
[00025] An objective of the present subject matter is to enable wireless 10 communication for remote control, authentication, and monitoring of the vehicle locking status.
[00026] An objective of the present subject matter is to incorporate an alarm system activated upon unauthorized access attempts to deter theft or tampering. 15
[00027] An objective of the present subject matter is to offer the capability to automatically lock the vehicle upon detecting the user moving away from it, enhancing user convenience and security.
[00028] An objective of the present subject matter is to design mounting provisions within the contoured profile of the handlebar bridge to ensure 20 secure attachment of the lock unit and prevent interference with the vehicle's operation.
[00029] An objective of the present subject matter is to Integrate a GPS tracking system within the lock unit to aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles.
[00030] An objective of the present subject matter is to provide the flexibility 25 to configure multiple user access levels with corresponding authorization protocols, catering to various user needs and security requirements.
[00031] An objective of the present subject matter is to include a backup battery within the lock unit to ensure continued operation in case of the main power source failure, ensuring uninterrupted security functions. 30
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[00032] An objective of the present subject matter is to position the lock unit between the fork mounting provisions, in front of the handlebar bridge, and behind the front panel assembly to integrate seamlessly within the vehicle assembly while optimizing accessibility and functionality.
[00033] In view of the above, the claimed limitations as discussed above are 5 not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed limitations enable the above solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies.
[00034] The present subject matter is described using a lock unit for a vehicle which is used in a vehicle, whereas the claimed subject matter can be used in 10 any other type of application employing above-mentioned configuration, with required changes and without deviating from the scope of invention. Further, it is intended that the disclosure and examples given herein be considered as exemplary only.
[00035] The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the 15 embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The 20 terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.
[00036] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The present subject 25 matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, 30
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aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[00037] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present disclosure describes a lock unit (126) is intended for use with a vehicle (100) 5 which consists of a frame assembly (102) comprising a headtube (104), a plurality of main tubes (106), and a plurality of cross tubes (108). Additionally, the vehicle includes a front panel assembly (110) comprising a front rear panel (112) and a front panel (114). Furthermore, there is a handlebar assembly (116) equipped with a plurality of fork mounting 10 provisions (118), a handlebar bridge (120), and a plurality of handlebar grips (122). Notably, the handlebar bridge (120) is provided with a protrusion (124) extending from a front edge of the handlebar bridge (120) towards the front portion of the vehicle in a contoured profile. This protrusion (124) is furnished with a plurality of mounting provisions (202) extending from the 15 bottom of the protrusion towards the ground. The lock unit (126) is specifically configured to be mounted onto the mounting provisions (202) of the handlebar assembly (116) for secure attachment and locking purposes.
[00038] In an embodiment the lock unit (126) may be an electronic locking mechanism, designed to enhance the security against theft or unauthorized 20 use. This electronic locking mechanism may encompass various technologies, including keyless entry systems, smartphone integration, biometric locks, RFID, or PIN code entry. The electronic locking mechanism utilizes several encryption protocols such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security 25 (TLS) protocols, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology, challenge-response and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) . In an embodiment the lock unit (126) utilizes a wireless communication module to facilitate remote control, authentication, and monitoring of the vehicle's locking status. Technically, this wireless communication module could be based on various 30 technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular connectivity. When the rider initiates a locking or unlocking command remotely, the wireless
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communication module establishes a connection with a corresponding remote-control device, such as a smartphone or key fob. Through this connection, encrypted data packets containing the command are transmitted securely between the lock unit and the remote-control device. Upon receiving the command, the lock unit processes the request and activates the locking 5 mechanism, securing or releasing the vehicle accordingly. Additionally, for authentication purposes, the wireless communication module may employ cryptographic protocols to verify the identity of the remote-control device, ensuring that only authorized users can access the vehicle's locking functions. Furthermore, the module continuously monitors the vehicle's locking status, 10 providing real-time feedback to the user via the remote-control device. This monitoring capability enables riders to remotely check whether the vehicle is securely locked or unlocked, enhancing overall security and convenience. In an embodiment wherein the lock unit (126) comprises an alarm system activated upon unauthorized access attempts. In an embodiment the lock unit 15 (126)configured to automatically lock the vehicle upon detection of the usermoving away from the vehicle (100). In an embodiment the mountingprovisions (202) are positioned within the contoured profile of the handlebarbridge (120) to ensure secure attachment and prevent interference. In anembodiment the lock unit (126) is integrated with a GPS tracking system to 20 aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is configurable to allow for multiple user access levels with corresponding authorization protocols. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is provided with a backup battery in case the main power source to the lock unit (126) fails. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is provided between the fork 25 mounting provisions (118), infront of the handlebar bridge (120) and behind the front panel assembly (110) as can be observed from the figure 2 of the present disclosure. The figure 3 of the present disclosure depicts a plurality of fixing elements (302) which is provided to mount the lock unit (126) onto the mounting provision (202). The plurality of fixing element (302) may 30 include bolts, screws, clamps, brackets, or any other fastening hardware specifically tailored to the dimensions and configuration of the lock unit (126)
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and mounting provisions (202). The figure 4 of the present disclosure provide an exploded view of the assembly of the lock unit (126) onto the mounting provisions (202). Figure 5 provides a depiction of how the handlebar assembly (116) is mounted onto the head tube (104) of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is integrated with a GPS tracking system 5 to aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is configurable to allow for multiple user access levels with corresponding authorization protocols. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is provided with a backup battery in case the main power source to the lock unit (126) fails. In an embodiment the lock unit (126) is provided between the fork 10 mounting provisions (118), infront of the handlebar bridge (120) and behind the front panel assembly (110). [00039] A person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the systems, modules, and sub-modules have been illustrated and explained to serve as examples and should not be considered limiting in any manner. It 15 will be further appreciated that the variants of the above disclosed system elements, modules, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined to create other different systems or applications.
[00040] The integration of an electronic locking mechanism fortified with encryption protocols such as AES, SSL/TLS, and PKI, alongside features like 20 challenge-response and MFA, substantially bolsters security against theft or unauthorized use by restricting access solely to authorized users, thereby minimizing the risk of theft. Additionally, incorporating a wireless communication module facilitates remote control, authentication, and real-time monitoring of the vehicle's locking status, enhancing convenience and 25 accessibility for users who can conveniently lock or unlock the vehicle remotely using their smartphones or key fobs. Moreover, the lock unit's capability to automatically engage the locking mechanism upon detecting the user's departure increases security by eliminating the need for manual intervention. Integration with a GPS tracking system aids in the swift 30 recovery of stolen vehicles, minimizing potential losses. Furthermore, the lock unit's customizable access levels with corresponding authorization
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protocols offer flexibility to tailor access permissions based on user roles or preferences. The provision of a backup battery ensures uninterrupted operation even during power failures, guaranteeing continuous security functionality. Finally, strategically positioning the lock unit between the fork mounting provisions, in front of the handlebar bridge, and behind the front 5 panel assembly optimizes accessibility, minimizes interference with vehicle operation, and enhances security against tampering or forced removal. [00041] In light of the above mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system, the claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in 10 the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the configuration itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.
[00042] A description of an embodiment with several components in 15 communication with another does not imply that all such components are required, On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention.
[00043] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been 20 selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, 25 which is set forth in the following claims.
[00044] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit 30 being indicated by the following claims.
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[00045] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the 5 teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. , Claims:I/We Claim:
1.A lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100), the vehicle comprising:
A frame assembly (102) comprising a headtube (104), a 5 plurality of main tube (106) and a plurality of cross tubes (108);
A front panel assembly (110) comprising a front rear panel (112)and a front panel (114);
A handlebar assembly (116) comprising a plurality of fork10 mounting provisions (118), a handlebar bridge (120), and aplurality of handlebar grips (122),
Wherein the handlebar bridge (120) is provided with a protrusion (124) extending from a front edge of the handlebar bridge (120) towards the front portion of the vehicle in a 15 contoured profile,
Wherein the protrusion (124) is provided with plurality of mounting provisions (202) extending from the bottom of the protrusion towards the ground;
A lock unit (126), configured to be mounted onto the mounting 20 provisions (202) of the handlebar assembly (116).
2.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) is configured with an electronic lockingmechanism,
wherein the electronic locking mechanism includes encryption 25 protocols to safeguard against unauthorized access and hacking attempts.
3.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) communicates with a wireless communicationmodule for remote control, authentication and monitoring a vehicle30 locking status.
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4.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) comprises an alarm system activated uponunauthorized access attempts.
5.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) configured to automatically lock the vehicle upon5 detection of the user moving away from the vehicle.
6.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe mounting provisions (202) are positioned within the contouredprofile of the handlebar bridge (120) to ensure secure attachment andprevent interference.10
7.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) is integrated with a GPS tracking system to aid inthe recovery of stolen vehicles.
8.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) is configurable to allow for multiple user access15 levels with corresponding authorization protocols.
9.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe lock unit (126) is provided with a backup battery in case the mainpower source to the lock unit (126) fails.
10.The lock unit (126) for a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein20 the lock unit (126) is provided between the fork mounting provisions(118), infront of the handlebar bridge (120) and behind the front panelassembly (110).