Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates in general to the field of automobiles. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to vehicles, for example a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a lock device for the vehicle.

BACKGROUND

The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.

Vehicles such as, but not limited to, motorized scooters, motorcycles, etc., among other components and assemblies include body frame, a power unit, a passenger seating area, a storage space, and a set of wheels. The power unit is adapted to provide the necessary power to the wheels, to drive the vehicle. The power unit, seating area, storage space, etc., are all carried by the body frame. The wheels are connected to the body frame. Therefore, the body frame is designed to carry the load of the vehicle, including the weight of the power unit, other components, and sub-assemblies of the vehicle. The vehicles including the two-wheeled vehicle, three-wheeled vehicle or four-wheeled vehicle is a significant mode of public as well as goods transport in developing countries. It is vastly used as a point-to-point mode of transport in rural and urban areas. Generally, these vehicles can be accessed and operated by use of a coded key which will be inserted into the lock system in the vehicle to unlock or turn ON the vehicle or even use other applicable features of the vehicle. These coded lock and key combinations allow only the authorized personnel to operate or use the vehicle. However, the conventional locks can be easily damaged by miscreants/thieves by inserting objects such as screw drivers, wires, pins, and other such objects to steal the vehicle. Despite numerous developments in lock technology, several problems still exist with conventional locks. These conventional locks can be damaged, and vehicle can be taken-away.

The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art.
SUMMARY

One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by device as disclosed henceforth and additional advantages are provided through the device as described in the present disclosure.

Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a lock device is described. The lock device is provided for actuation of handle lock and/or an ignition lock of a vehicle. The lock device includes a lock cover adapted to be securely mounted to a portion of a vehicle. Further, the device includes a barrel movably secured within at least a portion of the lock cover. The barrel configured to movably accommodate a plurality of tumblers. Each of the plurality of tumblers radially displaces between an extended position and a retracted position to selectively engage and disengage with the lock cover upon insertion and removal of a matching key to selectively lock and unlock the barrel relative to the lock cover. The barrel is defined with a groove on a surface of the barrel and being configured to slidably receive a locating pin extending inwardly from the lock cover. The groove is defined with an operational segment and a locking section. The locating pin being configured to displace from the operational segment to the locking section when load acting on the barrel exceeds a pre-defined limit to lock the barrel relative to the lock cover. This configuration of the lock device provides an antitheft feature for the vehicle. The lock device of present disclosure cannot be tampered using mala fide acts.

In an embodiment, the lock cover defines a hollow cylindrical portion having an inner surface defined with a plurality of serrations. Each of the plurality of serrations being configured to receive a corresponding tumbler of the plurality of tumblers in the extended position. The plurality of tumblers radially displaces between an extended position and a retracted position within slots defined in the barrel to selectively engage and disengage the barrel with the lock cover. The serrations aid in locking the barrel relative to the lock cover when the plurality of tumblers is in the extended position.

In an embodiment, the locating pin slides along the operational segment of the groove upon operating the barrel by the matching key between a first position, an intermediate position, and a second position. The first position of the barrel corresponds to handle lock condition. The intermediate position corresponds to handle unlock condition and the second position corresponds to the ignition ON condition.

In an embodiment, the operation segment and the locking section of the groove are aligned at right angles. The groove is defined with a flange portion between the operational segment and the locking section. The flange portion is adapted to deform and allow the entry of the locating pin into the locking section when load acting on the barrel exceed the pre-determined limit. The pre-determined limit of load acting on the barrel ranges from about 06 Kg-f to about 10 Kg-f.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is described. The vehicle includes a body frame, a steering mechanism, and lock device. The lock device is securely mountable to a portion of the steering mechanism and configured for actuation of handle lock and an ignition lock of the vehicle. The lock device comprising a lock cover securely mountable to the portion of the steering mechanism of the vehicle. Further, the device includes a barrel movably secured within at least a portion of the lock cover. The barrel configured to movably accommodate a plurality of tumblers. The plurality of tumblers radially displaces between an extended position and a retracted position to selectively engage and disengage with the lock cover upon insertion and removal of a matching key to selectively lock and unlock the barrel relative to the lock cover. The barrel is defined with a groove on a surface and being configured to slidably receive a locating pin extending inwardly from the lock cover. The groove is defined with an operational segment and a locking section. The locating pin being configured to displace from the operational segment to the locking section when load acting on the barrel exceeds a pre-defined limit to lock the barrel relative to the lock cover. The configuration of the lock device provides an antitheft feature for the vehicle. The lock device of present disclosure cannot be tampered using mala fide acts.

It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

FIG.1 illustrates a plan view of a vehicle having a locking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG.2 illustrates a view of the locking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG.3 illustrates an view of the locking device of FIG.2;

FIG.4 illustrates a section view of the locking device of FIG.2;

FIG.5 and FIG.6 illustrates an enlarged view of the of the lock device depicting a groove configuration on the barrel along with lock cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG.7 illustrates the groove configuration defined on the barrel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Before describing detailed embodiments, it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in a lock device. More particularly, a groove defined on the barrel of the lock device. However, such modifications should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

The term “comprises”, comprising, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device, structure, or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such device or structure or method. In other words, one or more elements in a device proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the device.

The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIG(s) 1 to 7. In the figure, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs. With general reference to the drawings, a lock device for a vehicle in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated and generally identified with reference numeral 200. The vehicle which embodies the lock device (200) in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in corresponding figures with reference numeral 100. It will be understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular vehicle. Also, the corresponding figures illustrate only a schematic of the lock device (200). The complete vehicle is not illustrated in the corresponding figures for ease of understanding of the invention.

The terms “vehicle”, “modular vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like. In the present disclosure, the term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a two wheeled vehicle, the features illustrated thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle”, “EV”, “modular vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like. The term “modular vehicle” refers to vehicle that can be selectively converted between one of a two-wheeled configuration and a multi-wheeled configuration. The terms “front/forward”, “rear/rearward/back/backward”, “up/upper/top”, “elevated/closed”, and “down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom”, used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description. It is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices or components illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be descried referring to the accompanying drawings. While some specific terms of “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” and other terms containing these specific terms and directed to a specific direction will be used, the purpose of usage of these terms or words is merely to facilitate understanding of the present invention referring to the drawings. Accordingly, it should be noted that the meanings of these terms or words should not improperly limit the technical scope of the present invention.

Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “secured” “accommodated,” “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and/or shown herein and that the terminology used herein is to describe embodiments by way of example and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Hereinafter in the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are outlined to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIG.1 to 7. In Figures. 1 to 7, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

Referring to FIG.1, a portion of a two-wheeled vehicle (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies two-wheeled motorcycle and interchangeably referred to as “the vehicle (100)”. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles and the like, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In forthcoming paragraphs, the vehicle (100) and the configuration of the same is elucidated. Although the description elucidates various body parts of the vehicle, in the corresponding figures reference is made only to those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

The two-wheeled vehicle (100) in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure may embody a saddle type riding vehicle or a scooter. The vehicle comprises a front-end assembly (220), a rear end assembly (not shown). The front-end assembly (220) forms the front portion of the vehicle (100). The rear end assembly may define the rear portion of the vehicle (100). In case of the scooter/moped, a foot board may be defined between the front-end assembly (220) and the rear portion and the footboard provided footrest for rider riding the vehicle (100).

The rear end assembly among other components comprises a seat assembly, optionally a storage area (not shown), a rear ground engaging member (not shown), and a power unit (not shown). The seat assembly provides seating for a rider and pillion of the vehicle. The storage is provided under the seat assembly. The storage area allows storage of small articles within the vehicle. In an embodiment, size of the storage area provided in the vehicle i.e., under the seat may vary based on the type of the vehicle (100). Further, the rear ground engaging member (not shown) underlies the seat assembly and is driven by the power unit. The power unit (not shown) may include an internal combustion engine and a transmission unit. In an embodiment, the power unit may also be an electric or traction motor without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The rear end assembly further includes additional components such as suspension systems, taillights, rear grips [also referred to as grab rails] without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

The front-end assembly (220) of the present disclosure among other components/features includes a front ground engaging member (102), a steering mechanism (112). The front ground engaging member (102) may be operatively connected to the steering mechanism (112). The steering mechanism (112) includes a handlebar (112a). The handlebar (112a) may be configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the front-end assembly (220) of the vehicle (100) may also comprise a lock device (200) for actuation of handle lock and/or an ignition lock of the vehicle (100). The lock device (200) in accordance with the present disclosure may be provided on a portion of the handlebar (112a) as apparent from FIG.1. In an alternative embodiment, the lock device (200) may also be used for actuation of the seat assembly from a closed condition to an open position. In another alternative embodiment, the lock device (200) may be used for myriad application where the need for locking is necessary. The configuration of the lock device (200) is elucidated in the forthcoming paragraphs in conjunction with corresponding FIGs 2 to 7.

The front-end assembly (220) of the vehicle (100) further include a dash assembly (104). The dash assembly (104) comprises a display unit. The display unit displays information about the vehicle (100) to the rider. The display unit may further include a plurality of visual indicators (not shown) to indicate various functional parameters relating to the vehicle (100). The dash assembly (104) may comprise additional components such a, LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI) etc, without limiting the scope of the invention. The front-end assembly (220) may further comprise additional components such as rear-view mirrors (108), headlamp/head light, front fender (above the front wheel), a plurality of blinkers (106), etc. with limiting the scope of the invention.

The vehicle (100) includes a body frame. The body frame comprises a head tube, a main tube/downframe [not shown]. The body frame supports the steering mechanism (112) and the front ground engaging member (102) [also referred hereinabove and after as front wheel (102)] in the front portion of the vehicle (100) and rear ground engaging member in the rear portion of the vehicle. The steering mechanism (112) may be steerably mounted on the body frame of the vehicle (100).

Referring to FIG.2, which illustrates a perspective view of the lock device (200) embodied in the vehicle (100) of FIG.1. The configuration of the lock device (200) will be elucidated henceforth. In accordance with the present disclosure, the lock device (200) may be used for actuation of handle lock and/or an ignition lock of the vehicle (100). The lock device (200) may be provided on the portion of the steering mechanism (112). However, such configuration of the lock device (200) may be used for myriad purposes which necessitate the operation of locking and unlocking. The lock device (200) may be provided with a matching key (202). The matching key (202) may also be referred to as “coded key (202)” and may be alternatively/interchangeably used hereinafter.

The lock device (200) may be mounted to the vehicle (100) in any of the directions, depending upon the type of the vehicle (100). The lock device (200) of the present disclosure includes a lock cover (204), a lock bar (218) [also referred to as steering lock bar (218)], and a barrel (208) [refer FIG.3]. The lock cover (204) of the lock device (200) may be mounted on the portion of the vehicle (100). In a preferred embodiment, the lock cover (204) may be defined on the portion of the steering mechanism (112) of the vehicle (100). The lock cover (204) may be secured to the steering mechanism (112) of the vehicle (100) using known joining techniques such as thermal joining and/or mechanical joining. In an alternative embodiment, the lock cover (204) may be integrally defined with the steering mechanism (112) without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the steering lock bar (218) may be accommodated in the lock cover (204). The steering lock bar (218) may be operably connected to the barrel (208) which may be operatively disposed within the lock cover (204). In an embodiment, the steering lock bar (218) may be provided integral to the barrel (208) without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The barrel (208) may include a key slot (K) (matching key inserted as depicted in FIGs 2 to 4] configured to receive the matching key (202). The barrel (208) may remain in a handle locked condition (A) [refers to as first position (A) and also corresponds to vehicle OFF position] in the absence or withdrawal of the matching key (202). The barrel (208) may enter an unlocked condition (D) [also referred to as intermediate position (D)] and subsequently to ignition ON condition (B) [referred to as second position (B) hereinafter], as the matching key (202) is inserted into the barrel (208) through the key slot (K) [as apparent from FIGs. 5 and 6]. The positions may be conferred from the FIGs 5 to 7 of the corresponding figures. In the intermediate position (D) or the second position (B) the matching key (202) is free for rotation along with the barrel (208) either in clockwise direction or anti-clockwise direction as viewed from plan view of the barrel (208). That is with the aid of matching key (202), the barrel (208) can be rotated in the clockwise direction or anti-clockwise direction as viewed from top view of the barrel (208). In a preferred embodiment, the barrel (208) may be of a cylindrical shape and may be interchangeably referred to as the cylindrical barrel (208). However, the shape of the barrel (208) should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure as said barrel (208) may have different shapes such as rectangular, square, polygonal etc. and may be termed according without limiting the scope of the invention.

Further referring to FIG.3 in conjunction with FIG.4, a perspective view of the lock device (200) without the lock cover (204) and a sectional view of the lock device (200), respectively is illustrated. The barrel (208) includes a plurality of sliding members also referred to and interchangeably referred to as a plurality of tumblers (210). The tumblers (210) [as depicted in FIG.3 and 4] may be disposed radially within the barrel (208). In another embodiment, the tumblers (210) may be disposed circumferentially on the barrel (208). The plurality of tumblers (210) may radially displace between an extended position and a retracted position relative to the lock cover (204). In an embodiment, the hollow cylindrical portion of the lock cover (204) may be defined with a plurality of serrations [not shown]. Each of the plurality of serrations may be configured to receive the corresponding tumbler of the plurality of tumblers (210) in the extended position. Further, the tumblers (210) may be stacked in the slots (211) [refer FIGs 2 and 5] of the barrel (208). When the matching key (202) is not inserted in the barrel (208), a portion of each of the plurality of tumblers (210) may remain outside the slots (211) of the barrel (208) under the spring action. The portion of each of the plurality of tumblers (210) lock the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204). Hence, in the absence of the matching key (202) in the barrel (208), the barrel (208) cannot be rotated within the lock cover (204) in either direction.

To rotate the barrel (208), the matching key (202) may be inserted into the barrel (208). The matching key (202) may be defined with at least a cut. The cut on the matching key (202) may engage with the tumblers (210) in such a way that the tumblers (210) slide towards the axis of the barrel (208). Hence, the portion of each of the plurality of tumblers (210) which is engaging the lock cover (204) in the absence of the matching key (202), now slides into the barrel (208) as the matching key (202) is inserted into the key slot (K) of the barrel (208). Eventually unlocking the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204) to make the barrel (208) operable or rotatable. The normal load from the rider/operator for operating the barrel (208) between the first position (A) and the second position (B) with the matching key (202) may range from about 1.5 ± 0.5 kg-f. In case of load acting over and above the specified limit, the lock device (200) may be tampered which is the case with conventional locks and the vehicle may be stolen. The lock device (200) of the present disclosure is designed such that, in case the load acting on the lock device (200) is over and above the specified limit, the barrel (208) may be permanently locked relative to the lock cover (204), thereby ensuring that the vehicle (100) is immobilised until the lock device (200) is completely replaced. This configuration of the lock device (200) prevents the vehicle (100) from being stolen. The anti-theft feature of the lock device (200) will be elucidated henceforth.

As apparent from FIG.3 and in conjunction with FIGs 5 to 7, the barrel (208) as described above further includes a groove (212) defined on its outer surface. The groove (212) may be defined along the circumferential surface of the barrel (208). In an embodiment, the groove (212) may be defined on the surface of the barrel (208) that may be in contact with/selectively engage with the surface of the lock cover (204). In an embodiment, the groove (212) may be an elongated slot of pre-defined shape. The groove (212) may be configured to receive locating pin (110) extending inwardly from the lock cover (204) [apparent from FIG.4]. In an embodiment, the groove (212) may glide over the locating pin (110) when the barrel (208) is rotated anti-clockwise or clockwise direction with the aid of matching key (202). The groove (212) may be defined with an operational segment (212a) and a locking section (212b). In an embodiment, the locking section (212b) may be defined perpendicular to the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212) as evident from FIG.5 and 7. The locking section (212b) may be defined at right angle to the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212). In an embodiment, the locking section (212b) of the groove (212) may be defined right above the first position (A) [corresponding to the handle lock condition] defined in the operational segment (212a). In an embodiment, the operational segment (212a) and the locking section (212b) of the groove (212) may be separated by a flange portion (F). In an embodiment, the flange portion (F) may extend up to a pre-determined distance from a side wall of the groove (212). The sidewall of the groove (212) on which the flange portion (F) is defined may be the sidewall extending that is common to the operational segment (212a) and the locking section (212b). The flange portion (F) may be viewed clearly in the FIG.7 in corresponding figures. In a preferred embodiment, the flange portion (F) may extend up to half distance from the sidewall of the groove (212) such that the entrance to the locking section (212b) is partially blocked. In another embodiment, the flange portion (F) may extend from the sidewall [i.e., common to 212a and 212b] till a sidewall opposite to the sidewall that is common to locking section (212b) and the operational segment (212a). Provision of the flange portion (F) between the locking section (212b) and the operational segment (212a) ensures that the locating pin (110) does not ingress into the locking section (212b) from the operational segment (212a) during normal operating conditions which will be elucidated henceforth.

Said locating pin (110) may be configured to be operated within the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212) during normal operation of the barrel (208) within the lock cover (204) of the lock device (200). That is the when the barrel (208) is operated between the first position (A), the intermediate position (D) and the second position (B). As described earlier, the first position (A) corresponds to handle lock condition, the intermediate position (D) corresponds to handle unlock condition and the second position (B) corresponds to the ignition ON condition. The displacement between the first position (A) and the second position (B) is elucidated in detail in the above paragraphs. The normal operation of the lock device (200) in brief is elucidated henceforth. In the normal operation, the barrel (208) may be configured to move relative to the locating pin (110) which forms contact between the lock cover (204) and the barrel (208).

As illustrated previously, the barrel (208) may be in the first position (A) in the absence or withdrawal of the matching key (202). The locating pin (110) extending from the lock cover (204) may be at the first position (A) as shown in the

FIG.5 in conjunction with FIG.7. As evident from FIG.5, the locating pin (110) in the operational segment (212a) and in first position (A). The barrel (208) may be operated to the intermediate position (D) and subsequently to the second position (B) by inserting the matching key (202) into the key slot (K) of the barrel (208) as shown by arrow (?) in the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212). In an embodiment, to operate the barrel (208) from first position (A) to the intermediate position (D), the barrel (208) may be pressed downward with the aid of the matching key (202) and rotated in defined direction i.e., either clockwise or anti-clockwise. Likewise, to operate the barrel (208) from the intermediate position (D) to the first position (A), the barrel (208) may be first pressed down and then rotated to the first position (A). The normal operating force or load required for the rider/operator to actuate the matching key (202) to subsequently rotate the barrel (208) may be 1.5 ± 0.5 kg-f. Although a specific numeral value is depicted the same should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. The lock device (200) may be operated normally using the matching key (202) only by the rider or the owner who possess the matching key (202).

In an event of burglary or theft of the vehicle (100), unauthorized person such as burglar or thief uses tools such as screwdriver, hammer, pin, and the like to break the lock device (200) of the vehicle (100). In an event, when abrupt force acts on the lock device (200), the locating pin (110) extending inwardly from the lock cover (204) and in contact with the groove (212) displaces from the operational segment (212a) to the locking section (212b) of the groove (212). In an embodiment, the abrupt force/load may also be referred to as the pre-determined load and may range from 6 Kg-f to 10 Kg-f. Said pre-determined load is illustrated for exemplary purpose only and should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. The load referred to herein may be any abrupt force acting on the barrel (208) without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. When abrupt force acts on the barrel (208), it may move down linearly. When the barrel (208) moves down linearly upon receiving the abrupt force, the locating pin (110) which is in the first position (A) in the operational segment (212a) may get ingressed into the locking section (212b) thereby permanently locking the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204) as apparent from the FIG.6. The locating pin (110) ingressed into the locking section (212b) may be apparent from FIG.6 of the corresponding figures. The position of the locating pin (110) in the locking section (212b) is illustrated by alphabet “C” in corresponding FIG.7. When the locating pin (110) is being ingressed into the locking section (212b), the flange portion (F) may be subjected partial deformation. Thereby allowing the entry of the locating pin (110) into the locking section (212b). Once the locating pin (110) is ingressed into the locking section (212b), the flange portion (F) that is partially deformed ensures that the locating pin (110) does not retrieve to the operational segment (212a)/the first position (A).

In an embodiment, the lock device (200) of this configuration provides an antitheft feature for the vehicle (100). Advantageously, use of the lock device (200) is not limited to the vehicle operation, it has myriad applications. For instance, the lock device (200) may be used for seat lock and the like. The lock device (200) of present disclosure cannot be tampered using mala fide acts. Also, the lock device (200) prevents motor vehicle theft. If the lock device (200) of the present disclosure is subjected to tamper, the vehicle (100) is immobilized completely which ensures that the vehicle (100) cannot be moved until a technician replaces the lock device (200). The said features of the lock device (200) prevent burglary of the vehicle (100). The lock device (200) of the present configuration also has high torque resistance which ensures that the handle lock cannot be broken using small force.

The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated embodiments; rather, these embodiments are intended to disclose the subject matter of the disclosure fully and completely to those skilled in this art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.

Herein, the terms “attached”, “connected”, “interconnected”, “contacting”, “mounted”, “coupled” and the like mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.

Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises…a”, “comprising”, “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

EQUIVALENTS:
The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.
, Claims:We claim:
1. A lock device (200) for actuation of handle lock and an ignition lock of a vehicle (100), the lock device (200) comprising:
a lock cover (204) adapted to be securely mounted to a portion of a vehicle (100); and
a barrel (208) movably secured within at least a portion of the lock cover (204), the barrel (208) configured to movably accommodate a plurality of tumblers (210), the plurality of tumblers (210) radially displaces between an extended position and a retracted position to selectively engage and disengage with the lock cover (204) upon insertion and removal of a matching key (202) to selectively lock and unlock the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204), the barrel (208) being defined with:
a groove (212) on a surface, the groove (212) being configured to slidably receive a locating pin (110) extending inwardly from the lock cover (204), the groove (212) being defined with an operational segment (212a) and a locking section (212b),
wherein the locating pin (110) being configured to displace from the operational segment (212a) to the locking section (212b) when load acting on the barrel (208) exceeds a pre-defined limit to lock the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204).

2. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lock cover (204) defines a hollow cylindrical portion having an inner surface defined with a plurality of serrations.

3. The lock device (200) as claimed in claims 1 and 2, wherein each of the plurality of serrations configured to receive a corresponding tumbler of the plurality of tumblers (210) in the extended position.

4. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of tumblers (210) radially displaces between an extended position and retracted position within slots (211) defined in the barrel (208) to selectively engage and disengage the barrel (208) with the lock cover (204).

5. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locating pin (110) slides along the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212) upon operating the barrel (208) by the matching key (202) between a first position (A), an intermediate position (D), and a second position (B).

6. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the first position (A) of the barrel (208) corresponds to handle lock condition, the intermediate position (D) corresponds to handle unlock condition and the second position (B) corresponds to the ignition ON condition.

7. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein operational segment (212a) and the locking section (212b) of the groove are aligned at right angles, and the groove (212) is defined with a flange portion (F) between the operational segment (212a) and the locking section (212b), the flange portion (F) is adapted to deform and allow the entry of the locating pin (110) into the locking section (212b) when load acting on the barrel (208) exceeds the pre-determined limit.

8. The lock device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-determined limit of load acting on the barrel (208) ranges from about 6 Kg-f to 10Kg-f.

9. A vehicle (100) comprising:
a body frame;
a steering mechanism (112); and
a lock device (200) securely mountable to a portion of the steering mechanism (112) and configured for actuation of a handle lock and an ignition lock of the vehicle (100), the lock device (200) comprises;
a lock cover (204) adapted to be securely mounted to a portion of a vehicle (100); and
a barrel (208) movably secured within at least a portion of the lock cover (204), the barrel (208) configured to movably accommodate a plurality of tumblers (210), the plurality of tumblers (210) radially displaces between an extended position and a retracted position to selectively engage and disengage with the lock cover (204) upon insertion and removal of a matching key (202) to selectively lock and unlock the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204), the barrel (208) being defined with:
a groove (212) on a surface, the groove (212) being configured to slidably receive a locating pin (110) extending inwardly from the lock cover (204), the groove (212) being defined with an operational segment (212a) and a locking section (212b),
wherein the locating pin (110) being configured to displace from the operational segment (212a) to the locking section (212b) when load acting on the barrel (208) exceeds a pre-defined limit to lock the barrel (208) relative to the lock cover (204).

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locating pin (110) slides along the operational segment (212a) of the groove (212) upon operating the barrel (208) by the matching key (202) between a first position (A), an intermediate position (D), and the second position (B), wherein the first position (A) of the barrel (208) corresponds to handle lock condition, the intermediate position (D) corresponds to handle unlock condition and the second position (B) corresponds to the ignition ON condition.