FIELD OF THE INVENTION [001] The present invention relates to a locking device for securing vehicles from theft. In particular, although not exclusively, the invention relates to a locking device for immobilizing the foot pedal of a vehicle, such as the clutch and/or brake pedals. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[002] Pedal locks are a popular means for securing vehicles from theft. This is seemingly owing to their being perceived as more secure than other forms of vehicle component locks, such as those that secure the steering wheel or gear stick. Vehicle pedal locks available in the market may be categorized into one of two types, namely removable locks and installed locks.

[003] Installed pedal locks involve the device being securely installed in the vehicle by bolting or anchoring it to an immovable part of the vehicle such as the floor board or steering column. Examples of such floor- or steering column-anchored pedal locks include CN200988477, WO2004108488 and US6,662,894. [004] Typically, the locking or immobilizing principle of known installed pedal locks involves a movable member which bars, clamps or blocks the pedal or pedal arm from operation. This is generally achieved by the user or driver actuating a lever or handle at an upper end of the pedal lock closest to the driver to retract the movable member into a locked position, which physically blocks the pedal or pedal arm from operation. [005] There exist, however, some limitations with respect to the use of such installed pedal locks. By way of example, the movable blocking member sometimes can also be pushed or jerked into locking position by a sudden impact or collision force. Such events may accidentally lock up the foot pedal, rendering it non-operational, which can be dangerous if the brake pedal is accidentally locked whereby the driver is not able to effectively stop the vehicle after such an initial impact or collision. Additionally, such pedal locks may be bulky, making their installation difficult in the confined space of the foot well of the vehicle.

[006] Accordingly, there remains a need for an installed pedal lock that requires less space, allowing for ease of installation, as well as being more resistant to accidental extension in the event of a collision of the vehicle in which the pedal lock is installed.

[007] Further, the construction of existing locks with antitheft mechanisms is usually the result of a specific functional design according to a particular operating environment. Existing antitheft locks generally include a lock cylinder with a plurality of locking bodies disposed within a hollow housing or casing, such that rotational movement of the lock cylinder within the lock housing is inhibited or prevented by the action of these locking bodies. It is only by inserting a specific corresponding key into the key hole of the lock cylinder and driving conversion of the lock catch assemblies to an unlocked position by virtue of the specific shape of the key, that the lock can be unlocked by rotating the lock cylinder by way of the key. To this end, the locking bodies engage the outer lock housing to be in a locked state, but when the corresponding key is inserted into the key hole of the lock cylinder locking bodies are separated from the outer lock housing so as to result in the lock being unlock.

[008] Notwithstanding that these locks can provide a certain degree of antitheft function, an improved antitheft mechanism is required. By way of example, such locks can be readily unlocked or picked by inserting a tool into the key hole to continuously and tentatively push the lock catch assemblies into their unlocked position. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[009] It is an object of the present invention to overcome and/or alleviate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In one aspect, although not necessarily the only aspect or the broadest aspect, the invention resides in a locking device for securing a foot pedal of a vehicle in an inoperable position comprising:

a frame having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis;

an extendable locking arm mounted at a second end of the frame and adapted for movement between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein in the locked position the extendable locking arm is extended relative to the longitudinal axis so as to prevent or inhibit operation of said foot pedal, and in the unlocked position the extendable locking arm is retracted so as to allow for operation of said foot pedal;

a first locking mechanism mounted at the first end of the frame and adapted to lock the extendable locking arm in the locked position; and a mounting member extending from the frame and adapted to be secured to a portion of said vehicle.

[0011] The locking arm suitably comprises a first arm portion and a second arm portion pivotable relative to each other so as to facilitate movement of said extendable locking arm from the unlocked position to the locked position. In one embodiment of the locking device of the present invention, the first arm portion and the second arm portion when in the unlocked position are substantially perpendicular to each other. In certain embodiments, wherein the locking device is in the locked position, the first arm portion and the second arm portion are substantially colinear.

[0012] Suitably, the extendable locking arm comprises a biasing member configured to bias the locking arm toward the unlocked position. Preferably, the biasing member is or comprises a helical torsion spring. In one embodiment, the biasing member engages a portion of both the first and second arm portions so as to facilitate biasing of said extendable locking arm to the unlocked position.

[0013] The locking device of the present aspect suitably further comprises an actuator operably coupled to the extendable locking arm, so as to facilitate extension of the extendable locking arm to the locked position upon actuation thereof. In one preferred embodiment, the actuator comprises a lever operably coupled to a slide mechanism, wherein actuation of the lever facilitates linear movement of the slide mechanism. [0014] Suitably, the locking device further comprises a second locking mechanism mounted at the first end of the frame adjacent the first locking mechanism, wherein the second locking mechanism is adapted to lock the first locking mechanism after the first locking mechanism has been locked. [0015] Suitably, the extendable locking arm is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the frame. In one embodiment, the extendable locking arm is secured to a rotatable member rotatably disposed within the second end of the frame. Preferably, the rotatable member is or comprises an axial tube.

[0016] The locking device of the present aspect suitably further comprises a guide member extending from a second end of the frame and adapted to facilitate extension of the extendable locking arm. Preferably, the guide member facilitates pivotable movement of the second arm portion relative to the first arm portion upon rotation of the extendable locking arm. [0017] In one embodiment, the biasing member engages a portion of the guide member.

[0018] In a related aspect, the invention resides in a method of securing a foot pedal of a vehicle in an inoperable position, including the steps of:

(a) providing a locking device comprising a frame having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis; an extendable locking arm mounted at a second end of the frame and adapted for movement between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein in the locked position the extendable locking arm is extended relative to the longitudinal axis so as to prevent or inhibit operation of said foot pedal, and in the unlocked position the extendable locking arm is retracted so as to allow for operation of said foot pedal; a first locking mechanism mounted at the first end of the frame and adapted to lock the extendable locking arm in the locked position; and a mounting member extending from the frame and adapted to be secured to a portion of said vehicle;

(b) installing the locking device in said vehicle; and

(c) moving the extendable locking arm from the unlocked position to the locked position so as to secure said foot pedal in an inoperable position.

[0019] Suitably, the locking device is that of the aforementioned aspect.

[0020] In a further aspect, the invention resides in a lock comprising: a lock housing defining a longitudinal axis and comprising an axially extending locking channel in an upper portion thereof; a lock cylinder disposed within the lock housing and having a keyway axially extending distally from a front end face thereof, the lock cylinder further including:

a plurality of first locking apertures and a plurality of second locking apertures alternately arranged axially along an upper portion thereof so as to underlie the locking channel;

a plurality of first receiving apertures and a plurality of second receiving apertures alternately arranged axially along a lower portion thereof and arranged opposite the respective first and second locking apertures;

a plurality of first step portions, each adjacent their respective first or second receiving aperture and upwardly projecting into the keyway; and

a plurality of second step portions, each adjacent their respective first or second locking aperture and downwardly projecting into the keyway;

a plurality of first locking element assemblies, each disposed within the lock cylinder and extending between one of the first locking apertures and its respective first receiving aperture, wherein each first locking element assembly comprises a first locking body and a first biasing element, the first locking body comprising a first locking portion, a first tooth portion and a first abutting portion, the first locking portion extending radially outward from a proximal end of the first locking body and adapted to be received by the locking channel therein, the first tooth portion extending into the keyway and adapted to engage a corresponding key when inserted therein, the first abutting portion adjacent the first locking portion and extending outwardly from the keyway, the first biasing element disposed within the locking cylinder such that a first end thereof abuts its corresponding first abutting portion and a second thereof abuts its corresponding first step portion so as to facilitate biasing of the respective first locking portion into the locking channel; and a plurality of second locking element assemblies, each disposed within the lock cylinder and extending between one of the second locking apertures and its respective second receiving aperture, wherein each second locking element assembly comprises a second locking body and a second biasing element, the second locking body comprising a second locking portion, a second tooth portion and a second abutting portion, the second locking portion extending radially outward from a distal end of the second locking body and adapted to be received by the locking channel therein, the second tooth portion extending into the keyway and adapted to engage a corresponding key when inserted therein, the second abutting portion extending outwardly from the keyway at a proximal end of the second locking body, the second biasing element disposed within the locking cylinder such that a first end thereof abuts its corresponding second abutting portion and a second thereof abuts its corresponding second step portion so as to facilitate biasing of the respective second locking portion away from the locking channel.

[0021] In one embodiment, the lock further includes a magnetic locking portion slidably disposed peripherally within the lock cylinder and adapted to engage the lock housing so as to retain the lock in the locked position.

[0022] Suitably, each of the first locking element assemblies comprises a pair of first locking bodies and first biasing elements and/or each of the second locking element assemblies comprises a pair of second locking bodies and second biasing elements.

[0023] In one embodiment, the lock housing further includes:

an engagement member at a distal end thereof and partially surrounding the lock housing, the engagement member having a first and second free end to define an open portion there between, wherein the open portion overlies an engagement channel in the lock cylinder; a spring element having a first hook portion at a first end thereof and a second hook portion at a second end thereof, wherein the first hook portion engages the engagement member at a first free end thereof in a hooked fashion, and the second hook portion engages both the second free end of the engagement member and the engagement channel of the lock cylinder, so as to bias the lock cylinder to return to the locked position after a user has rotated the lock cylinder relative to the lock housing by way of the corresponding key to the unlocked position. [0024] In one embodiment, the lock of the present aspect further includes a plate disposed transversely across a portion of the lock cylinder proximal to the first and second locking element assemblies.

[0025] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] To assist in understanding the invention and to enable a person skilled in the art to put the invention into practical effect, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a locking device of the present invention installed within a vehicle and showing both locked and unlocked positions thereof;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the locking device of Figure 1 in the locked position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the locking device of Figure 1 in the unlocked position;

FIG. 4 illustrates a further perspective view of the locking device of Figure 1 together with a separate perspective view of a mounting member therefor; FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the locking device of Figure

I in which the components thereof are shown in isolation and coaxial orientation;

FIG. 6 provides a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the locking device of Figure 1 , which demonstrates locking of a first locking mechanism thereof;

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the locking device of Figure 1 , which demonstrates return of an actuator to its original position;

FIG. 8 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the locking device of Figure 1 , which demonstrates locking of a second locking mechanism thereof;

FIG. 9 provides a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the locking device of Figure 1 , which demonstrates unlocking of the second locking mechanism thereof;

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the locking device of Figure 1 , which demonstrates unlocking of the first locking mechanism thereof;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lock of the invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the lock of Figure 11 ;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the lock of Figure 11 ;

FIG. 14 is a further cross-sectional view of the lock of Figure 1 ; FIG. 15 is yet a further cross-sectional view of the lock of Figure 11 ;

FIG. 16 is a planar side view of the lock of Figure 11 ;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the lock of Figure

I I taken along the line A-A in Figure 16;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of key insertion of the lock of Figure 11 ;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lock of Figure 1 with the key inserted, which demonstrates unlocking thereof; FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lock of Figure 11 with the key inserted, which demonstrates unlocking thereof;

FIG. 21 is a further cross-sectional view of the lock of Figure 1 1 with the key inserted, which demonstrates unlocking thereof;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of actuation of a latch assembly by the lock of Figure 11 , when in the locked position; and

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of actuation of a latch assembly by the lock of Figure 11 , when in the unlocked position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The present invention relates to a locking device for securing or locking a foot pedal of a vehicle in an inoperable position and a method of using same so as to discourage or prevent theft of said vehicle. Elements of the invention are illustrated in concise outline form in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are necessary to understand the embodiments of the present invention, but so as not to provide excessive detail that will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present description.

[0028] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, top and bottom, upwards and downwards, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Words such as "comprises" or "includes" are intended to define a nonexclusive inclusion, such that a method or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed, including elements that are inherent to such a method or system. [0029] According to a first aspect, the present invention is defined as a locking device for securing a foot pedal of a vehicle in an inoperable position comprising:

a frame having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis;

an extendable locking arm mounted at a second end of the frame and adapted for movement between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein in the locked position the extendable locking arm is extended relative to the longitudinal axis so as to prevent or inhibit operation of said foot pedal, and in the unlocked position the extendable locking arm is retracted so as to allow for operation of said foot pedal;

a first locking mechanism mounted at the first end of the frame and adapted to lock the extendable locking arm in the locked position; and a mounting member extending from the frame and adapted to be secured to a portion of said vehicle.

[0030] Particular advantages of some embodiments of the locking device of present invention include the extendible locking arm that extends relative to the longitudinal axis to effectively block the foot pedal and retracts to allow the foot pedal to move. The device is thus more compact thereby occupying significantly less space in the foot well than prior locking devices. These advantages also contribute to the ease of installation of the locking device provided herein into the vehicle. Additionally, the locking device of the present invention is also more resistant to accidental extension of the extendible locking arm in the event of, for example, rough terrain or a collision of the vehicle in which said device is installed.

[0031] Figures 1 to 3 provide a preferred embodiment of the locking device 100 of the invention installed at a position in between a first pedal 10 and a second pedal 20 (e.g., a clutch pedal and a brake pedal respectively). Figure 1 demonstrates the locking device 100 in an unlocked position (unbroken lines) and a locked position (broken lines), whilst Figure 2 demonstrates the locking device 100 solely in the locked position, and Figure 3 demonstrates the locking device 100 solely in the unlocked position. [0032] The locking device 100 broadly includes a frame 110, a pair of extendable locking arms 130, 135, an actuator 190, a pair of locking mechanisms 160, 170 and a mounting member 140.

[0033] As can be observed in Figures 1 to 10, the frame 110 comprises an elongate hollow or tubular structure having a first end 111 and a second end 112 and defining a longitudinal axis therebetween. The frame 1 10 further includes first and second guide members 115, 116, each extending radially and distally from the second end 112 thereof. In this regard, the first guide member 115 extends from a lower surface of the frame 110, whilst the second guide member 116 extends from a corresponding upper surface of the frame 110. The first and second guide members 115, 116 each include an L-shaped guide portion 115a, 116a extending substantially perpendicularly from a distal end thereof. To this end, first guide member 115 extends upwards such that the L-shaped guide portion 115a receives a second arm portion 132 of the first locking arm 130. Conversely, the second guide member 116 extends downwards such that the L-shaped guide portion 116a receives a second arm portion 137 of the second locking arm 135. As described hereinafter, the guide members 115, 1 16 facilitate extension or movement of the extendable locking arms 130, 135 from the non-extended unlocked position to the extended locked position, and vice versa.

[0034] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, each of the first and second locking arms 130, 135 is mounted within the second end 112 of the frame 110 by way of an elongate axial tube 102 of suitable dimensions for slidable and pivotable engagement therewithin. Each of the first and second locking arms 130, 135 comprises a respective first arm portion 131 , 136 extending radially from the axial tube 102 at opposing sections thereof, such that the first arm portions 131 , 136 together form a substantially linear section 139. The second arm portions 132, 137 are then pivotably engaged by way of fasteners 107, 108 to a distal end portion of their respective first arm portions 131 , 136 of the locking arms 130, 135. Such an arrangement allows for pivotable movement of the second arm portions 132, 137 of each locking arm 130, 135 relative to their respective first arm portions 131 , 136 engaged thereto. Such an arrangement further allows for extension of distal end portions of the second arm portions 132, 137 away from the longitudinal axis of the axial tube 102.

[0035] The first and second locking arms 130, 135 further include respective first and second biasing members 113, 114. In the embodiment provided, the first and second biasing members 113, 114 comprise a resiliently deformable helical torsion spring having a coiled portion 1 13a, 114a, which are respectively mounted onto the fasteners 107, 108 and thus overlie the pivot point of the first arm portions 131 , 136 and their respective second arm portion 132, 137. [0036] A first leg 113b of the first biasing member 1 13 extends upwardly and medially from the coiled portion 113a to engage a first arm channel 131a in an upper portion of the first arm portion 131 of the first locking arm 130. A second leg 1 13c of the first biasing member 113 then extends laterally from the coiled portion 1 13a to firstly engage a first guide member channel 1 15b in a distal portion of the L-shaped guide portion 115a of the first guide member 115 and then proceeds to wrap or bend around an upper surface of the second arm portion 132, such that an end portion of the second leg 113c engages a proximal surface of the second arm portion 132 of the first locking arm 130. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the second leg 113c includes a further coil body 113d which functions to bias the end portion of the second leg 1 13c of the first biasing member 113 against the proximal surface of the second arm portion 132. [0037] A first leg 1 14b of the second biasing member 1 14 extends downwardly and medially from the coiled portion 1 14a to engage a first arm channel 136a in a lower portion of the first arm portion 136 of the second locking arm 135. A second leg 1 14c of the second biasing member 1 14 then extends laterally from the coiled portion 1 14a to firstly engage a second guide member channel 1 16b in a distal portion of the L-shaped guide portion 1 16a of the second guide member 1 16 and then proceeds to wrap or bend around a lower surface of the second arm portion 137, such that an end portion of the second leg 1 14c engages a proximal surface of the second arm portion 137 of the second locking arm 135. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the second leg 1 14c includes a further coil body 1 14d which functions to bias the end portion of the second leg 1 14c of the second biasing member 1 14 against the proximal surface of the second arm portion 137.

[0038] This arrangement of the first and second biasing members 1 13, 1 14 acts to respectively bias the first and second locking arms 130, 135 towards a retracted and unlocked position, in which the second arm portions 132, 137 pivot relative to their respective first arm portion 131 , 136, so as to reside in a substantially perpendicular relationship with respect to each other, as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0039] As can be observed in Figures 1 and 2, when the locking arms 130, 135 are in an extended or horizontal locked position they physically render the respective pedals 10, 20 inoperable by preventing them from being depressed by a user. In alternative embodiments, the locking arms 130, 135 may make their respective pedals 10, 20 inoperable by keeping them depressed. The first locking arm 130 includes a raised portion 133 secured at the distal end portion of the second arm portion 132 thereof for engaging a stem 1 1 of the first pedal 10. Similarly, the second locking arm 135 comprises a raised portion 138 secured at the distal end portion of the second arm portion 137 thereof for facilitating engagement of a stem 21 of the second pedal 20 when the locking device 100 is in the locked position. Of course, it will be appreciated that alternative arrangements are envisaged, such as curvilinearly orienting one or both of the locking arms 130, 135 upwardly or downwardly so as to facilitate engagement of their respective first and second pedals 10, 20 when depressed by a user.

[0040] Referring to Figure 4, an upper portion of the first end 11 1 of the frame 1 10 is shown to be removed to more clearly demonstrate the locking action of the actuator 90 and first locking mechanism 160 on the axial tube 102, which is subsequently transmitted to the locking arms 130, 135 to result in the extended locked position or the retracted unlocked position thereof.

[0041] To this end, the axial tube 102 is rotationally engaged within the frame 1 10. In the present embodiment, rotation of the axial tube 102 is limited to about 45° by way of a locking pin 106 which traverses the frame 1 10 and axial tube 102 internally by way of directly opposed apertures 1 19a, 1 19b in the frame 1 10 and directly opposed guide channels 104a, 104b in the axial tube 102. To this end, the apertures 119a, 1 19b of the frame 1 10 directly overlie the respective guide channels 104a, 104b of the axial tube 102 so as to allow for passage of the locking pin 106 therethrough. Such an arrangement also allows for rotational movement of the axial tube 102 relative to the frame 1 10 by virtue of sliding movement of the locking pin 106 within the guide channels 104a, 104b, each of which extend around approximately 45° of the diameter of the axial tube 102. In this manner, the locking pin 106 also assists in securing the axial tube 102 within the frame 1 10 and restricts both axial rotation and translation therein. It would be appreciated that the length of the guide channels 104a, 104b will determine the degree of rotation of the axial tube 102 and as such may be altered as required.

[0042] In the embodiment provided, the locking device 100 further includes an actuator 190 so as to actuate rotational movement of the axial tube 102 and thereby facilitate movement of the locking arms 130, 135 to an extended locked position. The actuator 190 comprises a pull lever 191 pivotably mounted to a lower surface of the first end 1 11 of the frame 1 10. The pull lever 191 is further operably coupled by way of a upwardly projecting flange 192 to a slide mechanism 180, which is mounted adjacent the frame 110. The slide mechanism 180 includes a slide member 182 which is advanced or slid distally and axially (or substantially downwardly in an installed position in a vehicle) with respect to the frame 110 upon a user pulling up on the pull lever 191 , which causes the flange 192 to actuate such distal sliding movement of the slide member 182. This sliding movement is then translated into rotational movement of the axial tube 102 within the frame 110 by way of an inclined portion 184 substantially acting as a cam surface and contacting a raised portion 186 of a ring member 185. The ring member 185 is rotatably mounted within the first end 1 11 of the frame 110 and of suitable dimensions to be substantially co-linear and flush therewith. The ring member 185 is further secured to a proximal end of the axial tube 102, thereby allowing for translation of any rotational movement of the ring member 185 produced by the slide mechanism 180 to the axial tube 102. A compression spring 183 is further provided within the slide mechanism 180 and operably coupled to the slide member 182 to facilitate return of the slide member 182 to its original position after use.

[0043] In light of the above, pulling up of the lever 191 by a user actuates forward or linear movement of the sliding mechanism 180, which is translated via the inclined portion 184 to rotational movement of the ring member 185 and the axial tube 102 secured thereto. As can be observed in Figure 3, the linear section 139 comprising first arm portions 131 , 136 is disposed angularly (e.g., at approximately 45°) with respect to the frame 110. Upon rotation of the axial tube 102, the linear section 139 comprising first arm portions 131 , 136 rotates approximately 45° in an anti-clockwise direction (from a viewpoint looking into the page of FIG. 3) to be disposed in a substantially horizontal position with respect to the frame 110. Further, the L-shaped guide portions 1 15a, 1 16a of the guide members 1 15, 1 16 facilitate pivoting of the second arm portions 132, 137 relative to their respective first arm portions 131 , 136 upon rotation of the axial tube 102 to result in substantially linear and horizontally disposed first and second locking arms 130, 135 (i.e., an extended locked position).

[0044] It will be understood that actuation of the slide mechanism 180 to produce rotational movement of the axial tube 102 and extension of the locking arms 130, 135 can be produced by alternative mechanical means, such as a button or a lever mechanism, operably coupled to the slide mechanism 180.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment not illustrated herein, the ring member 185 includes a handle which allows for direct rotational movement thereof and subsequent extension of the locking arms 130, 135 by a user. Accordingly, in this alternative embodiment, the slide mechanism 180 is no longer required. The handle may further be coupled to a compression spring to facilitate its return to its original position following rotational movement thereof.

[0046] Figure 6 illustrates the pulling up of the lever 191 which actuates forward or linear movement of the sliding mechanism 180. As described previously, this linear movement is translated, via the inclined portion 184 which provides cam action against the raised portion 186, to rotational movement of the axial tube 102 and thus extends the locking arms 130, 135 into an extended locked position. In order for the locking arms 130, 135 to be retained or locked in this extended position during use, the locking device 100 further includes first and second locking mechanisms 160, 170.

[0047] As can be seen from Figure 6, the first locking mechanism 160 includes a first locking pin 161 , which is retained within the axial tube 102 by a pin sleeve 162, but biased outwardly towards an inner surface of the frame 110 by way of a spring 163. Upon rotation of the axial tube 102 and extension of the locking arms 130, 135, the first locking pin 161 is rotated to a position which coincides or aligns with a first locking aperture 164 extending through the frame 1 10 and is subsequently received and retained therein.

[0048] Figure 7 shows the lever 191 and the slide member 182 being released and returned to their original positions after having locked the first locking mechanism 160. As noted earlier, the slide member 182 is assisted in returning to its original biased position by way of the compression spring 183 and a slide bar 181.

[0049] As shown in Figure 8, actuation or pushing of the button 175 of the second locking mechanism 170 once the locking arms 130, 135 are in an extended locked position moves a second locking pin 171 distally towards a second locking aperture 174. The second locking aperture 174 extends through the frame 1 10 and axial tube 102 and is of suitable dimensions to receive the tapered end portion of the second locking pin 171 therethrough and be retained therein. Accordingly, the second locking aperture 174 comprises a frame portion 174a and an axial tube portion 174b, which are aligned or overlie each other upon the approximate 45° turn or rotational movement of the axial tube 102 required to extend the locking arms 130, 135 as described previously. Additionally, as can be observed in Figure 5, the frame portion 174a of the second locking aperture 174 extends more proximally than the axial tube portion 174b of the second locking aperture 174 so as to provide a guide channel therein for distal sliding movement of the second locking pin 171 until it is received within the axial tube portion 174b of the second locking aperture 174.

[0050] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the sequence required for subsequent unlocking of the locking device 100 by a user thereof. As can be seen from Figure 9, the second locking mechanism 170 is unlocked by a key 500. The key 500 is used to rotate the second lock cylinder 176, whereupon the second locking pin 171 is withdrawn from the second locking aperture 174 and retracted proximally therefrom. In this arrangement, the locking device 100 is still locked in an extended position as a result of the first locking mechanism 160, which remains locked by virtue of the first locking pin 161 still residing within the first locking aperture 164.

[0051] From Figure 10, the first locking mechanism 160 is unlocked next with the turning of the first lock cylinder 166 by the key 500, whereupon the first locking pin 161 is retracted and withdrawn from the first locking aperture 164. Thus, complete disengagement between the first and second locking mechanisms 160, 170 has been effected and the axial tube 102 is now free to rotate within the frame 1 10. As the axial tube 102 is biased to rotate to the unlocked position by way of the first and second biasing members 1 13, 1 14 of the locking arms 130, 135, upon being released from the locked position, the axial tube 102 rotates approximately 45° in a clockwise direction so as to return the locking arms 130, 135 to their unlocked position. [0052] It will be appreciated that although each of the locking mechanisms 160, 170 can be provided with different keys 500 for added security, for convenience of the user, the first and second locking mechanisms 160, 170 may alternatively be capable of being unlocked by the same key 500.

[0053] From Figures 1 to 5, the locking device 100 further includes a mounting member 140 which extends from an upper portion of the frame 1 10 to be secured or anchored onto a fixed part of the vehicle body, such as the steering column or the vehicle floor (not shown). The embodiments of the present invention provided herein demonstrate the locking device 100 configured to be mounted onto the vehicle floor. In the present specification, the vehicle "floor" or "floor board" is used interchangeably to broadly cover the rigid floor portion of a vehicle and which may continuously extend to the "firewall" portion separating the cabin from the engine compartment.

[0054] The mounting member 140 includes a rigid arm 141 secured to the upper portion of the frame 110 at a proximal end thereof. As can be seen in Figures 1 to 5, the mounting member 140 further includes a base 144 and a base plate 149 at a distal end of the arm 141. Figures 4 and 5 show a perspective view and exploded view of an embodiment of the locking device of the invention in which the mounting member 140 is shown as a separate sub-drawing with a cover member 150 detached.

[0055] It will be appreciated that the length of the mounting member 140 can be customized or adjustable so as to be of suitable dimensions for the particular distance between the pedals 10, 20 and the mounting surface (e.g., floor or steering column) of the specific vehicle in which the locking device 100 is to be mounted or installed. The base 144 in the provided embodiment is shown adapted into a tripod-like shape, which overlies the base plate 149 that may be independently secured to the vehicle. As the locking device 100 is generally designed to be secured or anchored onto a vehicle floor portion behind the foot pedal area, the installation typically involves fastening or bolting it from the cabin side rather than from the engine compartment side of the vehicle.

[0056] In order to prevent or inhibit tampering or removal of one or more of the exposed fasteners 145a, 145b from their respective apertures 146a, 146b, the T-shaped cover member 150 is secured to the arm 141 of the mounting member 140 by way of a fastener 154, such as a screw or bolt, and its respective aperture 155. The cover member 150 includes a cover portion 153 which is of a shape and dimension to substantially overlie fasteners 145a, 145b in the base 144 and base plate 149 so that they are inaccessible to be unscrewed or tampered with by a potential thief. To prevent access to the fastener 154 of the cover member 150, the first arm portion 136 of the second locking arm 135 includes a projection 136a extending outwardly or upwardly therefrom and of suitable dimensions such that when the second locking arm 135 is in the extended locked position, the projection 136a substantially covers or overlies the fastener 154 when in the aperture 155 and prevents access thereto, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0057] It will be appreciated that to allow for ease of installation and operation by a user, a certain degree of tolerance may be allowed so as to facilitate an easy locking of the locking device 100 without close engagement or abutment with the respective pedal 10, 20, while, on the other hand, ensuring that the amount of possible movement of the pedals 10, 20 is limited to a particular degree as to prevent tampering of the locking device 100 and/or use of the vehicle. Additionally, studs or caps as are known in the art of suitable dimensions can be utilised to overlie and secure one or more fasteners, such as fasteners 107, 108 of the locking arms 130, 135, such that access to these one or more fasteners is obstructed when the locking arms 130, 135 are extended into the locked position. [0058] Referring to Figs. 1 1 -23, a first preferred embodiment of a magnetic antitheft lock 5 of the present invention is provided. The lock 5 includes a hollow outer lock housing 10 and a lock cylinder 20 disposed therein to define a longitudinal axis. The lock 5 further includes a plurality of locking element assemblies 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and a magnetic locking bar 27. As shown in Figs. 1 1-12, a pair of peripheral locking channels 11 a-b extend axially and through an upper portion of the lock housing 10.

[0059] As shown in Figs. 12, 14 and-15, the lock cylinder 20 is rotatably disposed within the lock housing 10. The lock cylinder 20 is hollow so as to define a keyway 21 axially and distally extending from the front end face 20a thereof. The lock cylinder 20 further includes a plurality of first locking apertures 22a and a plurality of second locking apertures 23a in an upper portion thereof. Both the first and second locking apertures 22a, 23a open into the keyway 21. Additionally, the lock cylinder 20 includes a plurality of first receiving apertures 22b and a plurality of second receiving apertures 23b in the lower portion thereof and directly opposite their respective first and second locking apertures 22a, 23a. To this end, the first and second locking apertures 22a, 23a are alternately arranged in two columns axially extending along the upper portion of the lock cylinder 20. In this manner, each of the first locking apertures 22a and the second locking apertures 23a directly underlie and communicate with one of the locking channels 1 1 a, 1 1 b. As can be observed in Figure 12, the first receiving apertures 22b and the second receiving apertures 23b are similarly alternately arranged in two columns axially extending along the lower portion of the lock cylinder 20.

[0060] Referring to Figure 12, the plurality of locking element assemblies 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 can be divided into an upper set of first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70 and a lower set of second locking element assemblies 40, 60, which are oppositely and alternately arranged relative to each other. In this regard, the first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70 are in the twelve o'clock position, whilst the second locking element assemblies 40, 60 are in the six o'clock position.

[0061] As shown in Figs. 12, 14 and 15, each of the plurality of locking element assemblies 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 comprise a first locking body 31 a, 41 a, 51 a, 61 a, 71 a and a second locking body 31 b, 41 b, 51 b, 61 b, 71 b arranged symmetrically with respect to each other about a central vertical plane of the lock 5.

[0062] Each of the locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b are disposed within the lock cylinder 20 by way of their respective first locking aperture 22a or second receiving aperture 23b, which are of suitable dimensions to receive said locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a- b therethrough. When appropriately mounted, each of the first and second locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b extends from their respective locking aperture 22 through the keyway 21 defined by the lock cylinder 20 and to their respective receiving aperture 23 positioned opposite thereto, so as to be slidably moveable therewithin between a locked position and a unlocked position.

[0063] In the embodiment provided, the locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51a-b, 61a-b, 71a-b are substantially planar or disc-like in shape. Further, each of the locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b is provided with a locking portion 33a-b, 43a-b, 53a-b, 63a-b, 73a-b, a tooth portion 34a- b, 44a-b, 54a-b, 64a-b, 74a-b, a flange-like abutting portion 35a-b, 45a-b, 55a-b, 65a-b, 75a-b and a shaft portion 36a-b, 46a-b, 56a-b, 66a-b, 76a-b. The locking portion 33a-b, 53a-b, 73a-b of the upper set of first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a-b, 71 a-b projects radially outward from an proximal end portion thereof adjacent the respective abutting portion 35a-b, 55a-b, 75a- b. Conversely, for the lower set of second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b, the locking portion 43a-b, 63a-b projects outwardly from a distal end portion of the shaft portion 46a-b, 66a-b. [0064] The tooth portion 34a-b, 44a-b, 54a-b, 64a-b, 74a-b extends or projects outwardly from the shaft portion 36a-b, 46a-b, 56a-b, 66a-b, 76a-b of the locking body into the keyway 21 , whilst the abutting portion 35a-b, 45a-b, 55a-b, 65a-b, 75a-b extends from the proximal end portion of the locking body 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b on the opposite side of the locking body from the tooth portion 34a-b, 44a-b, 54a-b, 64a-b, 74a-b. Additionally, it can be seen in Figures 14 and 15 that the position of the tooth portion 34a-b, 44a-b, 54a-b, 64a-b, 74a-b relative to the shaft portion 36a- b, 46a-b, 56a-b, 66a-b, 76a-b of each locking body 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b may differ so as to accommodate the reception of a particular corresponding key thereby. [0065] Referring to Figure 14 and with respect to the upper set of first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a-b, 71 a-b, a first spring 32a-b, 52a-b, 72a-b is disposed within the lock cylinder 20 such that a first end thereof abuts the abutting portion 35a-b, 55a-b, 75a-b and a second end thereof abuts a first step portion 24a-b adjacent the corresponding first locking aperture 22b. Similarly, for the lower set of second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b as shown in Figure 15, a second spring 42a-b, 62a-b is mounted within the lock cylinder 20 such that a first end thereof abuts the corresponding abutting portion 45a-b, 65a-b and a second end thereof abuts a second step portion 25a-b. When in the locked position, the locking portions 33a-b, 53a-b, 73a- b of the first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a-b, 71 a-b are biased by their respective first or second spring 32a-b, 52a-b, 72a-b to extend through their respective locking aperture into the corresponding locking channel 1 1 a-b to thereby prevent or limit rotational movement of the lock cylinder 20 within the lock housing 10. In the embodiment provided, the first and second springs 32a-b, 42a-b, 52a-b, 62a-b, 72a-b are a helical spring, but it will be appreciated that these may be another suitable spring or biasing element as are known in the art. [0066] As show in Fig. 12, the magnetic locking bar 27 comprises a cylindrical piece of magnetic or magnetised material, such as a magnet or a ferrous metal pole piece, or alternatively may comprise a metal material that is attracted to a magnet, such as iron, nickel and cobalt. The magnetic locking bar 27 is slidably disposed peripherally within a proximal end portion of the lock cylinder 12. When in the locked position, the magnetic locking bar 27 extends radially outward from the lock cylinder 20 to be engaged within a channel or indentation (not shown) opposite thereto on an internal surface of the lock housing 10 that substantially overlies the magnetic locking bar 27.

[0067] As can be observed in Figures 12 and 13, the lock 5 further includes a substantially planar plate 28 disposed within and transversely across a portion of the lock cylinder 20 proximal to the locking element assemblies 30, 40, 50, 60, 70. The plate 28 is maintained in this position within the lock cylinder 20 by engaging and residing within a radially positioned groove 28a therein. The plate 28 includes an aperture 28b, which further defines the keyway 21 and allows for the passage of an appropriately sized key 90 there through. The plate 28 is preferably composed of a metal material, such as stainless steel, or another material of equivalent strength so as to deter a potential thief from directly breaking into the lock cylinder 20 and, in particular, accessing the locking element assemblies 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 distal thereto by way of a tool, such as a screw driver.

[0068] As shown in Figs 14 and 15, when the lock 5 is in the locked position, the first springs 32a-b, 52a-b, 72a-b abut against their respective abutting portions 35a-b, 55a-b, 75a-b of the first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a- b, 71 a-b so that the locking portions 33a-b, 53a-b, 73a-b thereof extend into their corresponding locking channel 1 1 a-b of the lock housing 10. The second springs 42a-b, 62a-b conversely abut against their respective abutting portions 45a-b, 65a-b of the second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b so that the second locking portions 43a-b, 63a-b thereof do not extend into the locking channels 1 1 a-b of the lock housing 10 when in the locked position.

[0069] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the lock 5 may further include a semi-cylindrical shaped engagement member 12 that extends axially from a distal end of the lock housing 10 and partially surrounds or encompasses a central portion of the underlying lock cylinder 20. The engagement member 12 further includes a first and second free end 12a, 12b that define an open portion therebetween and which substantially align with respective edge portions of an engagement channel 26 in an upper portion of the lock cylinder 20. To this end, the open portion substantially underlies or is aligned with the engagement channel 26. The lock 5 further includes a helical torsion spring 15 wound around the engagement member 12, which has a first hook portion 15a at a first end thereof and a second hook portion 15b at a second end thereof. The first hook portion 15a of the torsion spring 15 engages the engagement member 12 at the first free end 12a thereof in a hooked fashion. The second hook portion 15b of the torsion spring 15 engages both the second free end 12b of the engagement member 12 and the engagement channel 26 of the lock cylinder 20 in a hooked fashion. By virtue of this arrangement, the torsion spring 15 biases the lock cylinder 20 to return to the locked position after a user has rotated the lock cylinder 20 by way of the corresponding key 90 to the unlocked position. Additionally, the engagement member 12 includes raised portions 12c, 12d at a distal end thereof, which assist in retaining the torsion spring 15 therearound.

[0070] As shown in Figures. 18 and 19, the lock 5 can be unlocked with the corresponding key 90, wherein the key 90 includes a grip 91 and a mating member 92. The mating member 92 of the key 90 is configured to selectively extend into the keyway 21 of the lock cylinder 20. A pair of serrated mating portions 93a-b are formed on either side of the mating member 92. To this end, the tooth portions 34a-b, 44a-b, 54a-b, 64a-b, 74a- b of the locking bodies 31 a-b, 41 a-b, 51 a-b, 61 a-b, 71 a-b are selectively engaged by the mating portions 93a-b respectively upon insertion of the mating member 92 into the keyway 21. The mating member 92 further includes a magnetic portion 94 at a distal end thereof so as to be at a position which corresponds to that of the magnetic locking bar 27 when the key 90 is fully inserted into the keyway 21 , as shown in Figure 19. The magnetic portion 94 includes a magnetic or magnetised material, such as a magnet or a ferrous metal pole piece.

[0071] As shown in Figure 20, when the corresponding key 90 is inserted into the keyway 21 of the locking assembly 5, the magnetic portion 94 thereof inwardly attracts the adjacent magnetic locking bar 27 on the lock cylinder 20, so that the magnetic locking bar 27 is slidably withdrawn from the internal channel or indentation of the outer lock casing 10. Additionally, the mating portions 93a-b of the key 90 are of appropriate dimensions so as to engage the tooth portions 34a-b, 54a-b, 74a-b and downwardly move or displace the first locking bodies 30a-b, 50a-b, 70a-b, such that the first locking portions 33a-b, 53a-b, 73a-b thereof are retracted from their respective locking channel 1 1 a-b. Additionally, the mating portions 93a-b of the key 90 are of appropriate dimensions so as to simply abut the second tooth portions 44a-b, 64a-b and not move or upwardly displace the second locking bodies 40a-b, 60a-b, such that the second locking portions 43a-b, 63a-b thereof remain retracted from their corresponding locking channel 1 1 a-b. To this end, a user can now slidably rotate the lock cylinder 20 relative to the lock housing 10 by way of the key 90.

[0072] As shown in Figure 21 , in situations when the key 90 does not correspond to the lock 5 or a tool is used to try to pick or unlock the lock 5, the magnetic portion 94 of the key 90 may not be present or may not be in a position that corresponds to the magnetic locking bar 27 on the lock cylinder 20. Accordingly, when such a key 90 is inserted into the keyway 21 the magnetic locking bar 27 is not magnetically displaced from the internal locking channel or indentation in the lock housing 10. Additionally, the mating portions 93a-b of an incorrect key may be of dimensions that fail to appropriately engage the tooth portions 34a-b, 54a-b, 74a-b and as such the locking portions 33a-b, 53a-b, 93a-b of the first locking bodies 30a-b, 50a-b, 90a-b, are not downwardly displaced from their respective locking channel 1 1 a-b. Furthermore, the mating portions 93a-b of such an incorrect key may further engage the tooth portions 44a-b, 64a-b of the second locking bodies 40a-b, 60a-b so as to upwardly displace the second locking bodies 40a-b, 60a-b, such that the locking portions 43a-b, 63a-b thereof enter and engage their respective locking channel 1 1 a-b. To this end, the lock cylinder 20 cannot be rotated by an incorrect key to unlock the lock 5. In view of the above, the lock 5 described herein provides multiple antitheft mechanisms respectively through the first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70, the second locking element assemblies 40, 60 and the magnetic locking bar 27. [0073] In light of the foregoing, the lock 5 uses the following principle of when a specific key 90 is not inserted into the keyway 21 of the lock cylinder 20, the first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a-b, 71 a-b of the first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70 extend into the lock housing 10 so as to be in a locked state, and the second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b of the second locking element assemblies 40, 60 do not extend into the lock housing 10. When a key 90 corresponding to the magnetic antitheft lock 5 is then inserted into the keyway 21 of the lock cylinder 20, the specific shape of the key 90 is utilized to make the first locking bodies 31 a-b, 51 a-b, 71 a-b of the first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70 separate or withdraw from their respective locking channel 1 1a-b in the lock housing 20 to be in the unlocked position. Additionally, the specific shape of the key 90 maintains the second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b of the second locking element assemblies 40, 60 in their unlocked position. As such, it is only at this time that a user can utilize the key 90 to rotate the lock cylinder 20 and unlock the lock 5.

[0074] When a thief inserts other tools into the keyway 21 and attempts to utilize the tools to continuously push the first locking element assemblies 30, 50, 70 originally located at a locked position to perform conversion to an unlocked position according to the working of a lock catch mechanism of an existing antitheft lock, owing to the fact that the tools do not conform to the shape of the corresponding key, the positions of the second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b of the second locking element assemblies 40, 60 are changed and the second locking bodies 41 a-b, 61 a-b extend into the locking channel 1 1 a-b of the outer lock housing to improve the unlocking difficulty of the lock 5. [0075] Furthermore, the magnetic antitheft lock 5 of the present invention is further provided with the magnetic locking bar 27 in the lock cylinder 20, so that the lock cylinder 20 is immovably engaged in the lock housing 10; and only when the corresponding key 90 is inserted into the keyway 21 of the lock cylinder 20 can the magnetic locking bar 27 be converted to the unlocked position separated from the outer lock housing through a magnetic force from the magnetic portion 94 of the key 90. Since the magnetic locking bar 27 is concealed in the lock cylinder 20, it is difficult to identify the magnetic locking bar 27 from the external appearance of the magnetic antitheft lock 5 and determine the position of the magnetic locking bar 27 therein, so as to reinforce the antitheft function of the lock 5. [0076] Moreover, as shown in Figures. 22 and 23, the lock 5 can further include a latch assembly 80. The latch assembly 80 includes a hollow latch housing 81 and a latch bolt 82, which is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position relative to the latch housing 81. The distal end of the lock cylinder 20 is joined to a proximal end of the latch housing 81 and extends thereinto by way of the locking bar 29, which is operably connected to the latch bolt 81 and translates rotational movement of the lock cylinder 20 thereto so as to facilitate movement of the latch bolt 82 between the extended and retracted positions. In this regard, when a user inserts the correct key 90 into the keyway 21 and rotates the lock cylinder 20 and the locking bar 29, which forces the latch bolt 82 to move or be displaced downwards from the extended position to the retracted position, so as to achieve an unlocking effect.

[0077] In addition to the above, the lock 5 may further include an internal keyway flap (not shown) disposed and pivotably mounted within a side portion of the proximal end of the lock cylinder 20 for reversibly sealing the keyway 21 and inhibiting the ingress of, for example, water or particulate matter therein when not in use. To this end, the keyway flap includes a biasing member, such as a torsion spring, operably connected to a distal end thereof so as to bias the keyway flap to a closed position in which the keyway flap abuts and underlies an internal surface of the front end face 20a, such that a midportion of the keyway flap covers the proximal opening of the keyway 15. Upon insertion of the key 90 into the keyway 21 of the lock 5, the keyway flap is forced to pivot internally and distally away from the front end face 20a so as to allow passage of the key 90 therein. Once the key 90 is removed from the keyway 21 , the biasing member biases the keyway flap to return to the closed position covering the keyway 21.

[0078] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above described invention.