Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of locking systems and, more particularly to a locking system for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components.
BACKGROUND
[0002] With the ever-evolving technology and the customer tending more towards convenience, two-wheeler vehicle systems are moving towards automation and usage of electro-mechanical process. Most two-wheeler vehicles, whether it is IC or EV come with a traditional lockset that has a conventional mechanical lockset which is operated using a physical key that acts as an authentication for that specific lockset.
[0003] Conventionally, the physical key is used for locking or unlocking a handlebar of the vehicle by moving the key in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. Similarly, the traditional locking or unlocking feature is used for unlocking the seat as well.
[0004] Conventionally, many two-wheeler vehicles are available in the market that uses a motorized lockset to lock or unlock the handlebar of the vehicle and the seat of the vehicle. But they fail to perform both functions i.e. lock or unlock the handlebar and the seat of the vehicle using a single system.
[0005] Some two-wheeler vehicle uses a two-way solenoid actuator to lock or unlock the handlebar and unlock the seat of the vehicle. A plunger is attached to a motor of the vehicle. Further, the handlebar goes into a locked state when the plunger is pushed and the handlebar and the seat go into an unlocked state when the plunger is pulled. But it fails to do both functions at the same time. It is cumbersome for the rider because there is no lockset which solves the problem of actuating the handlebar lock as well as seat unlocking by using a single system or unit.
[0006] For example, U.S. Patent 8193921 B2 discloses a motorcycle handlebar lock system. The system includes a control section that executes a process of authenticating information necessary for driving a motorcycle and a switch part for initiating the authentication process. Further, the switch part is disposed of within a grip of a handlebar of the motorcycle.
[0007] The above patent discloses the locking and unlocking of the handlebar of the vehicle by using a key and a drive signal SD from the control section. The above patent doesn’t disclose the locking or unlocking of a seat of the vehicle.
[0008] For another example, U.S. Patent 20100077807 B2 discloses a vehicle storage box locking device. The device includes a lock configured to place the storage box in a closed state or an open state, and an actuator configured to drive the lock. The locking device further includes a button configured to place the storage box in the open state. The locking device is configured to perform an authentication of a portable key when the button is operated, and the storage box is closed.
[0009] The above patent discloses the locking and unlocking of the storage box (as well as the seat) of the vehicle by using the portable key. When the portable key is authenticated and the button is operated, the lock is configured to place the storage box in the open state. When the portable key is not authenticated and the button is operated, the storage box is configured to be held in the closed state without the lock being driven. Moreover, the above patent doesn’t disclose the locking or unlocking of the handlebar of the vehicle.
[0010] In none of the conventional systems and methods, there is any specification of an integrated system for locking and unlocking the handlebar and the seat of the vehicle by using the single system.
[0011] In light of the above-stated discussion, there is a need for a novel locking system that uses a single system to lock or unlock a handlebar and a seat of a vehicle as well, thereby providing a seamless rider experience.

OBJECT OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0012] A primary objective of the present disclosure is to provide a locking system for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components.
[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a locking system for locking or unlocking a handlebar and a seat of a vehicle.
[0014] Another objective is to provide the locking system for eliminating the use of manual efforts for locking or unlocking purposes by automatically locking or unlocking the handlebar and seat of the vehicle with help of a motor.
[0015] Another objective is to provide the locking system that provides ease of serviceability, modularity, and centrality.
[0016] Another objective is to provide the locking system that reduces the overall weight of the vehicle due to the use of a lesser number of components.
[0017] Another objective is to provide the locking system that provides a seamless driving experience to the rider by integrating two functions into a single system, thereby easy in packaging also.
[0018] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide the locking system that is easy to design, economical, and cost-effective.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0019] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0020] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a locking system for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components. The locking system includes a base structure, a slider plate, and an intermediate member.
[0021] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the base structure comprises a pair of guide rails. Further, each of the guide rails comprises a protrusion extending towards the slider plate. The slider plate is disposed between the pair of guide rails of the base structure. Further, the slider plate is configured to move between a first position and a second position along a first axis.
[0022] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the slider plate includes a slot, a first coupling member, and a second coupling member. Further, the slot is defined at an angle to the first axis. Further, the slider plate comprises at least one cut-out on opposite sides of the slot. Further, the cut-out is configured to receive the protrusion.
[0023] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first coupling member is configured to couple a first component to the slider plate and the movement of the slider plate between the first position and the second position along the first axis enables locking and unlocking of the first component. Further, the first coupling member is a T-slot defined along one of the sides of the slider plate. The first component is a handlebar of a vehicle. Further, the first component comprises a connecting rod. The connecting rod is configured to connect the first component to the first coupling member.
[0024] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second coupling member is configured to couple a second component to the slider plate and the movement of the slider plate between the first position and the second position along the first axis enables the locking and unlocking of the second component. The second component is a seat of the vehicle comprising a connecting cable. The connecting cable is configured to connect the second component to the second coupling member.
[0025] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the slider plate is configured to move to a third position that is disposed between the first position and the second position. The first position of the slider plate locks the first component. The second position and the third position of the slider plate unlocks the first component.
[0026] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first position and the third position of the slider plate locks the second component. The second position of the slider plate unlocks the second component.
[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate member includes a pin and a connecting portion. Further, the pin is configured to interface with the slot. The connecting portion is configured to enable the coupling of a motor to the intermediate member. The intermediate member is configured to convert the rotational motion of the motor shaft to a linear motion of the slider plate.
[0028] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the base structure comprises a motor mounting member. Further, the motor mounting member includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is for mounting the motor. Further, the first portion defines a first aperture to allow the motor shaft to pass through. The second portion is for mounting the locking system to the frame of the vehicle. The second portion is attached to the base structure towards the first position of the slider plate. Further, the second portion defines a second aperture that is configured to enable a connection between the slider plate and the first component.
[0029] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the base structure comprises a compartment configured to house a sensor and a motor controller. Further, the sensor is configured to determine the position of the slider plate and the motor controller is configured to control the operation of the motor.
[0030] These and other aspects herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawing. The foregoing objectives are attained by employing the locking system that locks or unlocks the handlebar and seat of the vehicle by the movement of the slider plate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0031] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0032] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a locking system 100 for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0033] Figs. 2A & 2B is a perspective view of a base structure 102 of the locking system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0034] Fig. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the base structure 102 of the locking system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0035] Fig. 4 illustrates a structure of a slider plate 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0036] Fig. 5 illustrates a structure of an intermediate member 108 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0037] Fig. 6 illustrates an assembly of a connecting cable 116 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0038] Fig. 7 is a block diagram 800 illustrating the working of the locking system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0039] Fig. 8 is a block diagram 900 that illustrates the components of the locking system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0040] Fig. 9 is a flowchart 1000 illustrates a method of locking a first component 802 (handlebar) of the locking system 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
[0041] Fig. 10 is a flowchart 1100 illustrates a method of unlocking the first component 802 (handlebar) of the locking system 100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention; and
[0042] Fig. 11 is a flow chart 1200 illustrates a method of unlocking a second component 804 (seat) of the locking system 100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0043] It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of a few examples of the present disclosure. The figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features.
[0045] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are collected here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those of skill in the art, however, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.
[0046] The articles "a", "an" and "the" are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.
[0047] The terms "comprise" and "comprising" are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as "consists of only". Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps.
[0048] The term "including" is used to mean "including but not limited to". "Including" and "including but not limited to" are used interchangeably. The accompanying drawing is used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the alternatives presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawing. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawing. Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.
[0049] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "may," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain alternatives include, while other alternatives do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more alternatives or that one or more alternatives necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular alternative. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.
[0050] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain alternatives require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0051] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a structure of a locking system 100 for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Further, the locking system 100 includes a base structure 102, a slider plate 106, and an intermediate member 108.
[0052] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the base structure 102 comprises a pair of guide rails 104. Further, each of the guide rails 104 comprises a protrusion 124 extending towards the slider plate 106. The slider plate 106 is disposed between the pair of guide rails 104 of the base structure 102.
[0053] In an embodiment, the multiple discrete components may correspond to a first component and a second component.
[0054] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the locking system 100 further includes a connecting rod 114 to enable the locking and unlocking of the first component 802 (refer fig.8) by moving the slider plate 106 between a first position 118 and a second position 120. Similarly, the locking system 100 further includes a connecting cable 116 to enable the locking and unlocking of the second component 804 (refer fig.8) by moving the slider plate 106 between the first position 118 and the second position 120.
[0055] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a third position 122 is disposed between the first position 118, and the second position 120. Further, the system 100 includes a motor 112 which is housed in a motor housing 110 and connected with the intermediate member 108.
[0056] Figs. 2A & 2B is a perspective view of the base structure 102 of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The base structure 102 comprises a motor mounting member 202. Further, the motor mounting member 202 includes a first portion 204 and a second portion 210. The first portion 204 is for mounting the motor 112. Further, the first portion 204 defines a first aperture 206 to allow a motor shaft to pass through. Further, the motor shaft is connected to the intermediate member 108. Further, the rotation of the intermediate member 108 is responsible for the motion to the slider plate 106.
[0057] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first aperture 206 ensures that the motor shaft and the intermediate member 108 have a two-way rotation feature. The two-way rotation feature means the direction of the motor shaft and the intermediate member 108 rotates in opposite direction (either clockwise or anti-clockwise) with respect to each other.
[0058] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second portion 210 is for mounting the locking system 100 to a frame of a vehicle. The second portion 210 is attached to the base structure 102 towards the first position 118 of the slider plate 106. Further, the second portion 210 defines a second aperture 212 that is configured to enable a connection between the slider plate 106 and the first component 802 (refer fig.8).
[0059] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the base structure 102 further includes a lock identifier 214 that identifies the third position 122 of the slider plate 106. Further, the base structure 102 acts as a sliding surface for the slider plate 106. Further, the slider plate 106 is configured to move between the first position 118 and the second position 120 along a first axis 208.
[0060] Fig. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the base structure 102 of the locking system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The base structure 102 comprises a compartment 302 configured to house a sensor and a motor controller. Further, the sensor is configured to determine the position of the slider plate 106 and the motor controller is configured to control the operation of the motor 112. Further, the compartment 302 is configured to house a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) of the locking system 100.
[0061] Fig. 4 illustrates a structure of the slider plate 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The slider plate 106 includes a slot 502, a first coupling member 504, and a second coupling member 506. Further, the slider plate 106 is configured to move between the first position 118 and the second position 120 along the first axis 208. Further, the slot 502 is defined at an angle to the first axis 208. Further, the slider plate 106 comprises at least one cut-out 508 on opposite sides of the slot 502. Further, the cut-out 508 is configured to receive the protrusion 124.
[0062] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first coupling member 504 is configured to couple the first component 802 (refer fig.8) to the slider plate 106. Further, the movement of the slider plate 106 between the first position 118 and the second position 120 along the first axis 208 enables locking and unlocking of the first component 802.
[0063] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first coupling member 504 is a T-slot defined along one of the sides of the slider plate 106. The first component 802 is a handlebar of the vehicle. Further, the first component 802 comprises the connecting rod 114. The connecting rod 114 is configured to connect the first component 802 to the first coupling member 504. Further, the connecting rod 114 is a plunger.
[0064] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second coupling member 506 is configured to couple the second component 804 (refer fig.8) to the slider plate 106. Further, the movement of the slider plate 106 between the first position 118 and the second position 120 along the first axis 208 enables the locking and unlocking of the second component 804.
[0065] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second component 804 is a seat of the vehicle and comprises the connecting cable 116. The connecting cable 116 is configured to connect the second component 804 to the second coupling member 506. Further, the connecting cable 116 is attached to a seat latch that locks or unlocks a seat to frame of a vehicle.
[0066] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the slider plate 106 is configured to move to the third position 122 that is disposed between the first position 118 and the second position 120. The first position 118 of the slider plate 106 locks the first component 802 (refer fig.8). The second position 120 and the third position 122 of the slider plate 106 unlocks the first component 802.
[0067] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first position 118 and the third position 122 of the slider plate 106 locks the second component 804. The second position 120 of the slider plate 106 unlocks the second component 804.
[0068] Fig. 5 illustrates a structure of the intermediate member 108 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The intermediate member 108 includes a pin 602 and a connecting portion 604. Further, the pin 602 is configured to interface with the slot 502. The connecting portion 604 is configured to enable the coupling of the motor 112 to the intermediate member 108. The intermediate member 108 is configured to convert the rotational motion of the motor shaft to a linear motion of the slider plate 106. Further, the rotational motion is anyone of a clockwise and an anti-clockwise direction.
[0069] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the slot 502 decides the linear motion direction of the connecting portion 604 and also decides the movement of the slider plate 106. Further, the linear motion is anyone of a forward motion or a backward motion. The linear motion of the slider plate 106 push or pull the connecting rod 114 and the connecting cable 116.
[0070] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate member 108 is a cranker. The intermediate member 108 also amplifies the motor torque by using a lever length of the intermediate member 108.
[0071] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the motor 112 is a combination of a DC motor and a gearbox assembly. The performance of the motor 112 is improved by increasing the motor torque. Further, the motor torque is increased with help of the gearbox assembly reduction ratio. Further, the gearbox assembly reduction ratio is modified by an amount of load that has to be pulled or pushed.
[0072] Fig. 6 illustrates an assembly of the connecting cable 116 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The connecting cable 116 includes a terminating unit 702, and a spring-loaded mechanism 704. The terminating unit 702 pulls the connecting cable 116 when the slider plate 106 moves to the second position 120 and unlocks the second component 804 (refer fig.8) of the vehicle. When the terminating unit 702 pulls the connecting cable 116, this connecting cable 116 intends to pull the spring-loaded mechanism 704 which unlocks the second component 804.
[0073] Fig. 7 is a block diagram 800 illustrating the working of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The system further includes a VCU (vehicle control unit) 806 used for data transfer 808 in between the locking system 100 and the vehicle. Further, the locking system 100 locks or unlock the first component 802 and the second component 804 with help of the connecting rod 114 and the connecting cable 116 respectively.
[0074] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the user gives a command to the locking system 100 to lock or unlock the first component 802 of the system 100, the locking system 100 starts data transfer 808 with the VCU 806. The user sends the command to the system 100 based on an authentication medium configured with the VCU 806.
[0075] In accordance with above embodiment of the present invention, the authentication medium is a wireless authentication that is based on any one of a RFID based, a NFC based, a Bluetooth based, a Wi-Fi based, a fingerprint based, or any combination thereof. In an alternate embodiment, the user provides the command on the dashboard of the vehicle.
[0076] In accordance with above embodiment of the present invention, the VCU 806 sends the signal to the locking system 100 to rotate the motor shaft either in the clockwise direction or anti-clockwise direction to move the slider plate 106 in the forward direction or backward direction for locking and unlocking the first component 802.
[0077] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when the motor shaft rotates in the clockwise direction then the slider plate 106 moves towards the first position 118 and pushes the connecting rod 114 to lock the first component 802. When the motor shaft rotates in the anti-clockwise direction, then the slider plate 106 either moves towards the second position 120 or towards the third position 122 and pulls the connecting rod 114 to unlock the first component 802.
[0078] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, similarly, when the user gives the command to the locking system 100 to lock or unlock the second component 804 of the system 100, the locking system 100 starts data transfer 808 with the VCU 806. The user sends the command to the system 100 based on an authentication medium configured with the VCU 806. Further, the VCU 806 sends the signal to the locking system 100 to rotate the motor shaft either in the clockwise direction or anti-clockwise direction to move the slider plate 106 in the forward direction or the backward direction for locking and unlocking the second component 804.
[0079] In accordance with above embodiment of the present invention, when the motor shaft rotates in the anti-clockwise direction then the slider plate 106 moves towards the second position 120 and the system 100 pulls the connecting cable 116 to unlock the second component 804. When the motor shaft rotates in the clockwise direction, the slider plate 106 either move towards the first position 118 or towards the third position 122, and the system 100 pulls the connecting cable 116 to lock the second component 804.
[0080] Fig. 8 is a block diagram 900 that illustrates the components of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The system 100 includes a mechanism driver 902, a motion manipulator 904, a component housing 906, a control module 908, and a feedback module 910.
[0081] In accordance with above embodiment of the present invention, the mechanism driver 902 further includes an actuator 912. The actuator 912 further includes the motor 112 and a gearbox 934. Further, the motion manipulator 904 includes a slider crank mechanism 914. The slider crank mechanism 914 further includes the slider plate 106, and the pair of guide rails 104. Further, the slider crank mechanism 914 is used for converting the rotational motion into the linear motion.
[0082] In accordance with above embodiment of the invention, the component housing 906 includes a slider plate housing 916, the motor housing 110, and the compartment (a PCB housing) 302. The compartment 302 further includes the authentication medium. Further, the control module 908 includes an H-bridge circuit 918, a buck converter 920, a voltage protection 922, and a communication module 924. Further, the feedback module 910 includes a hall effect sensor 926, a feedback switch 928, an infrared sensor 930, and a potentiometer 932.
[0083] Fig. 9 is a flowchart 1000 illustrating a method of locking the first component 802 (handlebar) (refer fig.8) of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Flowchart 1000 starts at step 1005 and proceeds to steps 1010, 1015, 1020, 1025, 1030, 1035, 1040, 1045, and 1050.
[0084] The method 1000 is first operative at step 1005.
[0085] At step 1010, the user sends the command based on the authentication medium to lock or unlock the handlebar 802 or seat 804.
[0086] At step 1015, a determination is made whether the user wants to lock or unlock the handlebar 802 or unlock seat 804 of the vehicle. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1020.
[0087] At step 1020, the VCU 806 gets the handlebar 802 lock signal from the user by pressing a button mounted on a vehicle dashboard.
[0088] Further, at step 1025, the system 100 finds the position of the slider plate 106.
[0089] At step 1030, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the third position 122. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1035 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1040.
[0090] At step 1035, the motor 112 turns clockwise until the feedback sensor detects the lock position using either the hall effect sensor 926 or the physical switch.
[0091] At step 1040, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the first position 118. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1050 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1045. The first position 118 of the slider plate 106 ensures that the handlebar 802 is in a locked state.
[0092] At step 1045, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the second position 120. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1035.
[0093] Fig. 10 is a flowchart 1100 illustrates a method of unlocking the first component 802 (handlebar) of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Flowchart 1100 starts at step 1105 and proceeds to steps 1110, 1115, 1120, 1125, 1130, 1135, 1140, 1145, 1150, and 1055.
[0094] The method 1100 is first operative at step 1105.
[0095] At step 1110, the user sends the command based on the authentication medium.
[0096] At step 1115, a determination is made whether the user wants to lock or unlock the handlebar 802 or unlock seat 804 of the vehicle. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1120.
[0097] At step 1120, the VCU 806 gets the handlebar 802 unlock signal from the user by pressing the button mounted on the vehicle dashboard.
[0098] Further, at step 1125, the system 100 finds the position of the slider plate 106.
[0099] At step 1130, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the third position 122. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1155 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1140. The third position 122 of the slider plate 106 ensures that the handlebar 802 is in an unlocked state.
[00100] At step 1140, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the first position 118. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1135 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1145.
[00101] At step 1135, the motor 112 has to turn anticlockwise until the feedback sensor detects the unlock position using either the hall effect sensor 926 or the physical switch.
[00102] At step 1145, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the second position 120. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1150.
[00103] At step 1150, the motor 112 has to turn clockwise and check the position of the slider plate 106 again.
[00104] Fig. 11 is a flow chart 1200 illustrates a method of unlocking the second component 804 (seat) of the locking system 100 for locking and unlocking in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Flowchart 1200 starts at step 1205 and proceeds to steps 1210, 1215, 1220, 1225, 1230, 1235, 1240, 1245, and 1250.
[00105] The method 1200 is first operative at step 1205.
[00106] At step 1210, the user sends the command based on the authentication medium.
[00107] At step 1215, a determination is made whether the user wants to lock or unlock the handlebar 802 or unlock seat 804 of the vehicle. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1220.
[00108] At step 1220, the VCU 806 gets the seat 804 unlock signal from the user by pressing the button mounted on the vehicle dashboard. Further, at step 1225, the system 100 finds the position of the slider plate 106.
[00109] At step 1230, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the third position 122. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1235 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1225.
[00110] At step 1235, the motor 112 has to turn anticlockwise until the feedback sensor detects the unlock position using either the hall effect sensor 926 or the physical switch.
[00111] At step 1240, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the first position 118. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then then the flowchart proceeds to step 1235 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1225.
[00112] At step 1245, another determination is made whether the position of the slider plate 106 is the second position 120. In one embodiment, when the determination is “YES”, then the flowchart proceeds to step 1250 otherwise the flowchart proceeds to step 1225. The second position 120 of the slider plate 106 ensures that the seat 804 is in the unlocked state.
[00113] In accordance with an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is used for locking or unlocking the handlebar 802 and the seat 804 of the vehicle by using the movement of the slider plate 1006. Further, this invention helps in eliminating the use of manual efforts for locking or unlocking purposes by automatically locking or unlocking the handlebar 802 and seat 804 of the vehicle with help of the motor 112.
[00114] In accordance with another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the invention provides ease of serviceability, modularity, and centrality. This invention reduces the overall weight of the vehicle due to the use of a lesser number of components, hence providing a greater range to the vehicle. The present invention provides a seamless driving experience to the rider by integrating two functions into a single system 100, thereby easy in packaging also. The present invention is easy to design, economical, and cost-effective.
[00115] In accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a charging flap may be configured with the system 100. Further, by using the same connecting cable 116 of the system 100, the charging flap may be unlocked if it is in the locked position initially. Further, a sidestep of the vehicle may also be released by using the same system 100. By using the connecting rod 114, a charging inlet of the vehicle may also be locked instead of using a separate solenoid mechanism to lock the charging lid.
[00116] While the detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various alternatives, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain alternatives described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others.
[00117] The disclosures and the description herein are intended to be illustrative and are not in any sense limiting the invention, defined in scope by the following claims.
, Claims:We claim,
1. A locking system (100) for locking and unlocking multiple discrete components, the locking system (100) comprising, comprising:
a base structure (102) comprising a pair of guide rails (104);
a slider plate (106) disposed between the pair of guide rails (104) of the base structure
(102), wherein
the slider plate (106) is configured to move between a first position (118) and a second
position (120) along a first axis (208), wherein the slider plate (106) comprises:
a slot (502) defined at an angle to the first axis (208);
a first coupling member (504), wherein,
the first coupling member (504) is configured to couple a first component (802) to the slider plate (106); and
the movement of the slider plate (106) between the first position (118) and the second position (120) along the first axis (120) enables locking and unlocking of the first component (802); and
a second coupling member (506), wherein,
the second coupling member (506) is configured to couple a second component (804) to the slider plate (106); and
the movement of the slider plate (106) between the first position (118) and the second position (120) along the first axis (208) enables locking and unlocking of the second component (804); and
an intermediate member (108) comprising:
a pin (602) configured to interface with the slot (502); and
a connecting portion (604) configured to enable coupling of a motor (112) to the intermediate member (108).

2. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the guide rails (104) comprises a protrusion (124) extending towards the slider plate (106).

3. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the slider plate (106) comprises at least one cut-out (508) on opposite sides of the slot (502), wherein the cut-out (508) is configured to receive the protrusion (124).

4. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coupling member (504) is a T-slot defined along one of the sides of the slider plate (106).

5. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein,
the first component (802) is a handlebar of a vehicle comprising a connecting rod (114); and
the connecting rod (114) is configured to connect the first component (802) to the first coupling member (504).

6. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein,
the second component (804) is a seat of the vehicle comprising a connecting cable (116); and
the connecting cable (116) is configured to connect the second component (804) to the second coupling member (506).

7. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slider plate (106) is configured to move to a third position (122), wherein the third position (122) is disposed between the first position (118) and the second position (120).

8. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein,
the first position (118) of the slider plate (106) locks the first component (802); and
the second position (120) and the third position (122) of the slider plate (106) unlocks the first component (802).

9. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein,
the first position (118) and the third position (122) of the slider plate (106) locks the second component (804); and
the second position (120) of the slider plate (106) unlocks the second component (804).

10. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the base structure (102) comprises a motor mounting member (202), wherein the motor mounting member (202) comprises:
a first portion (204) for mounting the motor (112), wherein the first portion (204) defines a first aperture (206) to allow a motor shaft to pass through; and
a second portion (210) for mounting the multi-component locking system (100) to a frame of the vehicle, wherein,
the second portion (210) is attached to the base structure (102) towards the first position (118) of the slider plate (106); and
the second portion (210) defines a second aperture (212) configured to enable connection between the slider plate (106) and the first component (802).

11. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the intermediate member (108) is configured to convert rotational motion of the motor shaft to a linear motion of the slider plate (106).

12. The locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base structure (102) comprises a compartment (302) configured to house a sensor and a motor controller, wherein the sensor is configured to determine the position of the slider plate (106) and the motor controller is configured to control the operation of the motor (112).