A closure latch assembly having a single motor actuator configured to control multiple latching functions

Abstract

A power latch assembly for a motor vehicle closure application, the power latch assembly having a single motor operable to: move a pawl from a ratchet hold position to a ratchet release position; place the power latch assembly in a double pull mechanical release state, and place the power latch assembly in a child lock state.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 337,961, filed May 3, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to automotive door latches, and more specifically, to a powered door latch assembly equipped with a power motor that drives multiple functions, including power release, double pull release from the inside, and a powered child lock. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information related to automotive door latches and is not necessarily prior art related to the concepts associated with this disclosure.

[0005] A vehicle closing panel, such as a side door of the vehicle's passenger compartment, is hinged to swing between an open position and a closed position and includes a latch assembly mounted to the door. The latch assembly operates in a known manner to latch the door when it is closed and to release the door from the latch to allow the door to subsequently move to its open position. As is also known, the latch assembly is configured to include a latching mechanism for latching the door and a release mechanism for releasing the door from the latch. The release mechanism can be power-operated to release the door from the latch.

[0006] During the power actuation of the latching mechanism, it is known to use a first motor to actuate a first gear mechanism to move the pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, thereby allowing the ratchet to move from a pin-captured position to a pin-released position, in which the door can move from a closed position to an open position.

[0007] In addition, it is known that an auxiliary motor is provided in addition to the primary motor. For example, the auxiliary motor is used to move the locking mechanism to at least one of a double-lock position and a child lock position. While such auxiliary motors can prove useful, they introduce increased cost, increased complexity, increased power requirements, and increased packaging size.

[0008] Therefore, there is still a need to develop alternative arrangements for latching mechanisms used in vehicle door latches that optimize the ability to perform multiple functions without requiring multiple motors to achieve the desired functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and is not intended as a comprehensive and exhaustive enumeration of all features or the full scope of the disclosure.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a power latch assembly for motor vehicle closing applications that overcomes at least the disadvantages associated with known power latch assemblies discussed above.

[0011] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a power latch assembly for motor vehicle closing applications, the power latch assembly having a single motor that is optimized in size and performs multiple functions.

[0012] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a power latch assembly for motor vehicle closure applications, the power latch assembly having a single motor capable of performing at least two or more functions, the two or more functions including: moving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position; placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull mechanical release state (double-pull open state); and placing the power latch assembly in a child lock state (child lock open state).

[0013] According to these and other objects, features, and advantages, a power latch assembly for closing a panel includes: a ratchet configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and biased toward the pin-release position. The power latch assembly also includes a pawl configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, wherein in the ratchet-hold position, the pawl holds the ratchet in the pin-capture position, and in the ratchet-release position, the pawl releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position. A single power actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position. The single power actuator is also configured to selectively place the power latch assembly in a double-pull-lock position, wherein in the double-pull-lock position, double mechanical actuation of an inner release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position. The single power actuator is also configured to place the power latch assembly in a child-lock position, wherein in the child-lock position, repetitive mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism does not move the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the power release gear is configured to be operably connected with a single power actuator, wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from an initial position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, and the power release gear operably driving the pawl from the initial position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in one of a double-pull locking state and a child lock state.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the power release gear can be configured to move from the original position in a second direction to the locked position, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in a child lock state, and then directly return to the original position, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull lock state.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power latch assembly for closing a panel includes a ratchet configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and biased toward the pin-release position. A pawl is configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, in which the pawl holds the ratchet in the pin-capture position and in the ratchet-release position, the pawl releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position. A single power actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position to selectively place the power latch assembly in a double-pull-open state and a child lock open state, wherein in the double-pull-open state, a double mechanical actuation of an inner mechanical release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position, and in the child lock open state, the mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism does not move the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position.

[0017] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the power release gear is configured to be operably connected with a single power actuator, wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from an initial position (HP) to a release position (RP) in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, and operably driving the pawl from the initial position to a locking position (LP) in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in a child lock open state.

[0018] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the locked position back to the original position in a first direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state.

[0019] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the actuator lever operably engages a power release gear with a pawl, at which the power release gear moves from an initial position to a release position in a first direction, causing the power release gear to drive the actuator lever from a rest position to a deployment position, in which the pawl is driven from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an inner release lever is provided, wherein the inner release lever has an inner locking link connected to the inner release lever for movement relative to the inner release lever between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the inner locking link is moved to disengage from the actuator lever during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism. In the unlocked position, the inner locking link is moved to engage with the actuator lever during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism. The inner locking link is prevented from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state.

[0021] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the locking link is configured to operably engage the power release gear with the inner locking link so as to cause the inner locking link to move from the unlocked position to the locked position in response to the power release gear moving from the original position to the locked position.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a locking lug is fixed to a power release gear, the locking lug being configured to prevent the locking link from moving when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state, thereby preventing the inner locking link from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the transmission sector member operably connects the power release gear to the locking link. The transmission sector member is configured such that when the power release gear moves from its original position to the locked position, it moves from the original position to the deployed position under the force applied by the locking lug, thereby moving the locking link to move the inner locking link from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the toggle spring is configured to engage with a stop portion of the drive sector, thereby releasably holding the drive sector in either an original position or a deployed position.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, when the power release gear is in the locked position, the locking lug prevents the transmission sector from moving from the deployed position to the original position, thereby keeping the power latch assembly in the child lock open position.

[0026] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the inner locking lever operably connects the locking link to the inner locking link. The inner locking lever is configured to cause the inner locking link to move from the unlocked position to the locked position in response to the power release gear moving from the original position to the locked position.

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the inner locking lever is directly connected to the locking link, and the inner locking lever is configured to directly engage with the inner release lever and the inner locking link.

[0028] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for performing multiple functions using a single power actuator of a power latch assembly having a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet being configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and being biased toward a pin-release direction, and the pawl being configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, wherein in the ratchet-hold position the pawl holds the ratchet in the pin-capture position, and in the ratchet-release position the pawl releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position, the method comprising: applying a single power actuator... The actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position when the power latch assembly is in the latch closed / unlocked position; the single power actuator is configured to place the power latch assembly in the child lock open state, in which the repeated mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism fails to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and the single power actuator is configured to place the power latch assembly in the double pull open state, whereby the first mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism moves the power latch assembly from the double pull open state to the double pull closed state.

[0029] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the method further includes: arranging a power release gear in operably connected with a single power actuator, and configuring the single power actuator to drive the power release gear from an initial position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operably driving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, and operably driving the pawl from an initial position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in a child lock open state.

[0030] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the method may further include configuring a single power actuator to drive a power release gear from a locked position back to its original position in a first direction, thereby placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state.

[0031] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for performing multiple functions using a power latch assembly having a single power actuator, the method comprising: moving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position; placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state, in which double mechanical actuation of an inner release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and placing the power latch assembly in a child lock open state, in which repeated mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism does not cause the pawl to move from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0032] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for performing multiple functions using a single power actuator of a power latch assembly having a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet is configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and is biased toward the pin-release position. The pawl is configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, wherein in the ratchet-hold position, the pawl holds the ratchet in the pin-capture position, and in the ratchet-release position, the pawl releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position. The method includes configuring the single power actuator to move the pawl from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position when the power latch assembly is in a latch-closed, unlocked position. The method also includes configuring the single power actuator to selectively place the power latch assembly in a double-locked state, wherein in the double-locked state, the pawl moves from the ratchet-hold position to the ratchet-release position upon completion of a first and second mechanical actuation of an inner release mechanism. The method also includes configuring a single power actuator to place the power latch assembly in a child lock state, in which repetitive mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism fails to move the pawl from the ratchet hold position to the ratchet release position.

[0033] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the method may further include: arranging a power release gear in operative communication with a single power actuator; configuring the single power actuator to drive the power release gear from its original position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operatively driving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, and operatively driving the pawl from its original position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operatively placing the power latch assembly in a child lock state; and configuring the single power actuator to drive the power release gear from the locked position back to its original position in the first direction, thereby placing the power latch assembly in a double-pull-lock state.

[0034] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for performing multiple functions using a power latch assembly having a single power actuator includes: energizing the single power actuator and moving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position; energizing the single power actuator and moving the power latch assembly to a double-pull open state, in which double mechanical actuation of an inner release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and energizing the single power actuator and moving the power latch assembly to a child lock open state, in which repeated mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism does not move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0035] Based on the description provided herein, other areas of applicability and functionality of the power latch assembly and its individual motor will become apparent. The descriptions and specific examples in this overview are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0036] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will be readily appreciated and better understood by referring to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 It is a partial perspective view of a motor vehicle having a side door equipped with a power latch assembly implementing the teachings of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the implementation of this public teaching. Figure 1 A front perspective view of the components of a power latch assembly, which are schematically shown to be operatively connected to various components of a side door, wherein some components have been removed for clarity purposes only.

[0039] Figure 3A yes Figure 2 A partial front view of the power latch assembly, illustrating the actuation mechanism in the unlocked position, wherein the power release gear is shown in the original position;

[0040] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Rear view plan;

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of the drive sector of the power latch assembly, illustrating the drive spring and the toggle spring used therein;

[0042] Figure 5A yes Figure 2 A partial front perspective view of the power latch assembly, illustrating the inner locking link configured for engagement with the actuator rod;

[0043] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Rear-view stereoscopic view;

[0044] Figure 6A It is similar to Figure 3A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly in the original position, where the actuation mechanism is shown in the double-pull closed and child lock closed positions.

[0045] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A partial rear view plan;

[0046] Figure 6C When the power release gear of the actuation mechanism is in its original position and the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state, the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring are similar to... Figure 4 The view;

[0047] Figure 7A It is similar to Figure 6A The view illustrates the first pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in its original position, with the actuation mechanism in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state;

[0048] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A A partial rear view plan;

[0049] Figure 7C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0050] Figure 8A It is similar to the release lever inside the actuation mechanism after the first pull is completed. Figure 7A The view;

[0051] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A partial rear view plan;

[0052] Figure 8C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the first pull is completed;

[0053] Figure 9A It is similar to Figure 3A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when moved from the original position to the power child lock position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0054] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A A partial rear view plan;

[0055] Figure 9C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 6C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0056] Figure 10A It is similar to Figure 9A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when it moves from the power child lock position back to the original position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull open state and the child lock closed state.

[0057] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A partial rear view plan;

[0058] Figure 10C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull open position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0059] Figure 11A It is similar to Figure 10A The view shows the first pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in the original position. As a result, the actuation mechanism moves from the double-pull open state and the child lock closed state back to the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state.

[0060] Figure 11B yes Figure 11A A partial rear view plan;

[0061] Figure 11C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0062] Figure 12A It is similar to the release lever inside the actuation mechanism after the first pull is completed. Figure 11A The view;

[0063] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A A partial rear view plan;

[0064] Figure 12C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the first pull is completed;

[0065] Figure 13A It is similar to Figure 12A The view illustrates the second pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in its original position, wherein the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state;

[0066] Figure 13B yes Figure 13A A partial rear view plan;

[0067] Figure 13C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0068] Figure 14A It is similar to the release lever on the inside of the actuation mechanism after the second pull is completed. Figure 13A The view;

[0069] Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A partial rear view plan;

[0070] Figure 14C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 6C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the second pull is completed;

[0071] Figure 15A It is similar to Figure 9A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when moved from the original position to the power child lock position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0072] Figure 15B yes Figure 15A A partial rear view plan;

[0073] Figure 15C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 9C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0074] Figure 16A It is similar to Figure 15A The view illustrates the pulling of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in the power child lock position, thus keeping the actuation mechanism in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0075] Figure 16B yes Figure 16A A partial rear view plan;

[0076] Figure 16C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 6CThe view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0077] Figure 17A It is similar to the action that occurs after the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism is released when the inner release lever is pulled. Figure 16A The view;

[0078] Figure 17B yes Figure 17A A partial rear view plan;

[0079] Figure 17C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 16C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state when the inner release lever is pulled.

[0080] Figure 18A It is similar to Figure 10A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when it moves from the power child lock position back to the original position. In the original position, the actuation mechanism moves from the child lock open state to the double-pull open state. In the double-pull open state, the double pull of the inner release lever causes the power latch assembly to move from the latched state to the unlocked state.

[0081] Figure 18B yes Figure 18A A partial rear view plan;

[0082] Figure 18C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 10C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull open position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0083] Figure 19 This illustration depicts a teaching for implementing another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A front perspective view of the components of the power latch assembly, in which some components have been removed for clarity purposes only;

[0084] Figure 20A yes Figure 19 A partial front view of the power latch assembly, illustrating the actuation mechanism in the unlocked position, wherein the power release gear is shown in the original position;

[0085] Figure 20B yes Figure 20A Rear view plan;

[0086] Figure 21 yes Figure 19An enlarged plan view of the drive sector of the power latch assembly, illustrating the drive spring and the toggle spring used therein;

[0087] Figure 22A yes Figure 19 A partial front perspective view of the power latch assembly, illustrating the inner locking link configured for engagement with the actuator rod;

[0088] Figure 22B yes Figure 22A Rear-view stereoscopic view;

[0089] Figure 23A It is similar to Figure 20A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly in the original position, where the actuation mechanism is shown in the double-pull closed and child lock closed positions.

[0090] Figure 23B yes Figure 23A A partial rear view plan;

[0091] Figure 23C When the power release gear of the actuation mechanism is in its original position and the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state, the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring are similar to... Figure 21 The view;

[0092] Figure 24A It is similar to Figure 23A The view illustrates the first pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in its original position, with the actuation mechanism in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state;

[0093] Figure 24B yes Figure 24A A partial rear view plan;

[0094] Figure 24C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0095] Figure 25A It is similar to the release lever inside the actuation mechanism after the first pull is completed. Figure 24A The view;

[0096] Figure 25B yes Figure 25A A partial rear view plan;

[0097] Figure 25C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the first pull is completed;

[0098] Figure 26A It is similar to Figure 20A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when moved from the original position to the power child lock position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0099] Figure 26B yes Figure 26A A partial rear view plan;

[0100] Figure 26C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0101] Figure 27A It is similar to Figure 26A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when it moves from the power child lock position back to the original position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull open state and the child lock closed state.

[0102] Figure 27B yes Figure 27A A partial rear view plan;

[0103] Figure 27C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull open position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0104] Figure 28A It is similar to Figure 27A The view shows the first pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in the original position. As a result, the actuation mechanism moves from the double-pull open state and the child lock closed state back to the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state.

[0105] Figure 28B yes Figure 28A A partial rear view plan;

[0106] Figure 28C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0107] Figure 29A It is similar to the release lever inside the actuation mechanism after the first pull is completed. Figure 28A The view;

[0108] Figure 29B yes Figure 29A A partial rear view plan;

[0109] Figure 29C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the first pull is completed;

[0110] Figure 30A It is similar to Figure 29A The view illustrates the second pull of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in its original position, wherein the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state;

[0111] Figure 30B yes Figure 30A A partial rear view plan;

[0112] Figure 30C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed position and the child lock in the closed position;

[0113] Figure 31A It is similar to the release lever on the inside of the actuation mechanism after the second pull is completed. Figure 30A The view;

[0114] Figure 31B yes Figure 31A A partial rear view plan;

[0115] Figure 31C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 23C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state when the second pull is completed;

[0116] Figure 32A It is similar to Figure 26A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when moved from the original position to the power child lock position, in which the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0117] Figure 32B yes Figure 32A A partial rear view plan;

[0118] Figure 32C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 26C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0119] Figure 33A It is similar to Figure 32A The view illustrates the pulling of the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism when the power release gear is in the power child lock position, thus keeping the actuation mechanism in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state;

[0120] Figure 33B yes Figure 33A A partial rear view plan;

[0121] Figure 33C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 23C The view shows the actuator in the double-pull closed state and the child lock in the open state;

[0122] Figure 34A It is similar to the action that occurs after the inner release lever of the actuation mechanism is released when the inner release lever is pulled. Figure 33A The view;

[0123] Figure 34B yes Figure 34A A partial rear view plan;

[0124] Figure 34C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in the power child lock position. Figure 33C The view shows that the actuation mechanism is in the double-pull closed state and the child lock open state when the inner release lever is pulled.

[0125] Figure 35A It is similar to Figure 27A The view illustrates the power release gear of the actuation mechanism of the power latch assembly when it moves from the power child lock position back to the original position. In the original position, the actuation mechanism moves from the child lock open state to the double-pull open state. In the double-pull open state, the double pull of the inner release lever causes the power latch assembly to move from the latched state to the unlocked state.

[0126] Figure 35B yes Figure 35A A partial rear view plan;

[0127] Figure 35C It is similar to the transmission sector, transmission spring, and toggle spring when the power release gear is in its original position. Figure 27CThe view shows the actuator in the double-pull open position and the child lock in the closed position; and

[0128] Figure 36 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for performing multiple functions using a power latch assembly having a single power actuator, according to another aspect of this disclosure.

[0129] In all the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals are used to indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0130] One or more exemplary embodiments of a type of power latch assembly well suited for use in motor vehicle closure systems will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely to make this disclosure exhaustive and to fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a detailed understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and that neither the foregoing specific details nor the exemplary embodiments should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail, as these well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

[0131] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “containing,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and thus indicate the presence of said features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. Unless specifically identified as the order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or described. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0132] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” or “attached to” another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, joined to, connected to, or attached to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly attached to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0133] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply sequence or order. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first segment discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second segment.

[0134] For ease of description, this document uses spatial relative terms such as “inner,” “outer,” “below,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., to describe the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the accompanying drawings and another element or feature. Spatial relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those depicted in the accompanying drawings when in use or operation. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “below” other elements or features will then be oriented “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the example term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated by a degree or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0135] First refer to Figure 1A non-limiting example of a powered latch assembly, hereinafter simply referred to as latch assembly 10, is shown. Latch assembly 10 is mounted in a closing panel, which, by way of example and not limitation, is, for example, a door of a passenger-side swing door 12 shown as a motor vehicle 14. Latch assembly 10 includes a latching mechanism 16 configured to releasably latch and retain a striker 18 mounted to a sill portion 20 of the vehicle body 22 when the swing door 12 is closed. Latch assembly 10 can be released via an inner release mechanism such as an inner door handle 24, an outer release mechanism such as an outer door handle 26, and / or a remote key 28. Figure 2 The latch assembly 10 is selectively actuated by mechanical actuation. As will be described in detail, the latch assembly 10 is configured to be powered by selective actuation of a single power release actuator, such as an electric motor 30, to perform multiple functions, which, by way of example and not limitation, include: achieving power release; achieving double-pull release (via double pull of the inner release mechanism 24); and placing the latch assembly in the powered child lock position. By powering multiple functions via a single power release actuator 30, the latch assembly 10 can be manufactured economically while minimizing size and weight, thereby enhancing the design flexibility of the closure panel and reducing the cost associated with the latch assembly 10.

[0136] Reference Figure 2 The diagram shows a non-limiting embodiment of the latch assembly 10 and latch mechanism 16, housed within a housing partially shown via a latch frame plate 29, with some components removed only for clarity. The latch mechanism 16 includes a ratchet 32 ​​and a pawl 34, as well as a release lever, also referred to as a release link, pawl release link, pawl release lever, or pawl lever 36. The ratchet 32 ​​is movable about a ratchet pivot axis, shown as defined by a ratchet post or rivet 33, between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position. In the pin-capture position, the ratchet 32 ​​uses its pin groove 38 to hold the pin 18 and keep the swing door 12 in the closed position. In the pin-release position, the ratchet 32 ​​allows the pin 18 to be released from the fish-mouth portion 19 provided by the latch housing of the latch assembly 10, allowing the swing door 12 to move to the open position. The ratchet biasing member 40, such as a spring, is configured to bias the ratchet 32 ​​toward its pin-release position under normal conditions. The pawl 34 is movable about a pawl pivot axis, shown as being defined by a pawl post or rivet 35, between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position. In the ratchet holding position, the pawl 34 holds the ratchet 32 ​​in its pin-capture position; in the ratchet release position, the pawl 34 allows the ratchet 32 ​​to move to its pin-release position. The pawl biasing member 42, such as a suitable spring, is configured to bias the pawl 34 toward its ratchet holding position under normal conditions.

[0137] The pawl release lever 36 is operably (directly or indirectly, and shown by way of example and not limitation, directly via another component, such as an intermediate pawl release lever or an auxiliary pawl release lever) coupled, also referred to as connected to the pawl 34. The pawl release lever 36 is movable between a deployed position, also referred to as the pawl release position, and a non-deployed position, also referred to as the original position. In the deployed position, the pawl release lever 36 moves the pawl 34 to its ratchet release position against the bias of the pawl biasing member 42. In the non-deployed position, the pawl release lever 36 allows the pawl 34 to be in its ratchet retaining position. By way of example and not limitation, a pawl release lever biasing member including the pawl biasing member 42, such as a suitable spring, may be configured to bias the pawl release lever 36 to its original position under normal conditions.

[0138] The pawl release lever 36 can be moved to its pawl-release position under normal power actuation via selective power actuation of the power release actuator 30. The power release actuator 30 has an output section, shown as provided by an output member also referred to as an output shaft 48, wherein a power release gear 52 is configured to mesh with an output gear also referred to as a main drive gear or drive gear 50. By way of example and not limitation, the drive gear 50 is shown as a worm gear mounted on the output shaft 48, wherein the drive gear 50 is fixed to rotate together with the output shaft 48 of the power release actuator 30. The power release gear 52 moves from its original position (HP) along a first direction (clockwise, such as...) Figure 3A The driven movement from the observed position (also known as the powered child lock position) to the full-stroke release position is configured to move the pawl release lever 36 to its pawl release position, in which the pawl 34 moves to its ratchet release position. Figure 3A The movement of the cam member 43 is achieved by engaging the actuator rod 45, thus driving the actuator rod 45 clockwise, as... Figure 3A As observed, the drive surface 47 of the actuator rod 45 is driven to engage with the pawl rod 36, thereby driving the pawl rod 36 and the pawl 34 to the ratchet release position of the pawl 34.

[0139] When needed, pawl 34 can be moved from the ratchet hold position to the ratchet release position under normal use, for example, when someone uses electronic remote key 28. Figure 2 When approaching the motor vehicle 14 and actuating the outer door handle 26, for example, the presence of the remote key 28 and the fact that the outer door handle 26 has been actuated (e.g., via the electronic switch 62) are sensed. Figure 2The inner door handle 24 can also be actuated via an electronic switch 63 (electronic communication between the inner door handle 24 and the latch electronic control unit (ECU) shown at 64, which at least partially controls the operation of the latch assembly 10). Furthermore, the latch ECU 64 actuates the power release motor 30 (energizes the power release motor 30) to rotatably drive the drive gear 50 by rotating the output shaft 48 of the power actuator 30 in a first direction. This causes the power release gear 52 to be rotatably driven clockwise from its original position in the first direction to its full-stroke release position, releasing the latch mechanism 16 and transitioning the latch assembly 10 to an unlocked operating state, facilitating the subsequent opening of the vehicle swing door 12. The power release motor 30 can be alternatively activated as part of a proximity sensor-based entry feature (e.g., radar-based proximity detection). For example, when someone uses the electronic remote key 28 (… Figure 2 When the vehicle 14 approaches and (based on the recognition of object proximity, such as the recognition of touch / waving / hovering / gestures or hands or fingers, etc.) the proximity sensor 66, such as a capacitive sensor or other contact-based / non-contact-based sensor, is actuated (e.g., via communication between the proximity sensor 66 and the latch ECU 64, which at least partially controls the operation of the latch assembly 10), then, by way of example and not limitation, if normal use is detected, such as the presence of the electronic remote key 28, the latch ECU 64 signals the power release motor 30 to be actuated to rotate the output shaft 48 in a first direction, thereby releasing the latch mechanism 16 and switching the latch assembly 10 to an unlocked operating state to facilitate the subsequent opening of the door 12, as discussed above.

[0140] Then, upon releasing the power latch assembly 10, the ECU 64, upon receiving a signal from the position sensor 67 (which may be configured to detect the relative position of the power release gear 52 via one or more features fixed to the power release gear 52, ratchet 32, and / or pawl 34), signals, by way of example and not limitation, to rotate the power release motor 30 in the opposite direction. The rotation of the power release motor 30 in the opposite direction causes the power release gear 52 to move counterclockwise, thus allowing the pawl release lever 36, for example, to return to its original position under the bias of the pawl release lever biasing member 44, thereby returning the pawl 34 to the ratchet holding position.

[0141] In addition to the normal power release performed by selective power actuation of the electric motor 30, the power release gear 52 can also be driven from its original position HP in a second counterclockwise direction, such as... Figure 3AAs observed, the actuator 70 can be moved from the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state to one of the double-pull open state or the child lock open state via selective power actuation of the electric motor 30 as needed, as discussed further below.

[0142] When the actuation mechanism 70 is in its double-pull closed state and child lock closed state, it allows for a single actuation of the inner release mechanism 24 to move the pawl 34 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet release position, such as... Figures 6A to 8B As shown in the diagram. Selective actuation of the actuation mechanism 70 can be achieved via the inner release mechanism 24. The inner release mechanism 24 ( Figure 7A and Figure 7B The mechanical actuation (pulling) of the inner release lever 72 overcomes the bias applied by the inner release lever biasing member 74, shown as a helical spring, and, by way of example and not limitation, moves the inner release lever 72, for example, pivotally from a rest position to a deployed position. The movement of the inner release lever 72 to the deployed position causes the inner locking link 76 to move into engagement with the driven surface 77 of the actuator lever 45, shown as a protrusion opposite to the drive surface 47. The actuator lever 45 is then rotatably driven to drive the drive surface 47 into engagement with the pawl lever 36, thereby driving the pawl 34 to its ratchet-release position. By way of example and not limitation, the inner locking link 76 is biased to a rest engaged position by the inner locking link biasing member 78, shown as a torsion spring, in which the inner locking link 76 is positioned for engagement with the driven surface 77 of the actuator lever 45 when the inner release lever 72 is actuated.

[0143] like Figures 9A to 10B As shown, when it is necessary to move the latch assembly 10 to the double-pull open position, in the double-pull open position, the inner release lever 72 needs to be actuated twice consecutively to move the pawl 34 to its ratchet release position. The power release actuator 30 is energized to drive the power release gear 52 counterclockwise from the original position (HP) to the power child lock position (PCL) around axis A. Figure 9A And then the power release gear 52 is driven clockwise from the power child lock position (PCL) back to the original position (HP). Figure 10AWhen the power release gear 52 is driven counterclockwise from the home position (HP) to the power child lock position (PCL), the position sensor 67 is activated via a sensor lug 80 fixed to the power release gear 52 (the position sensor 67 is configured to communicate electrically with the ECU 64 to indicate that the power release gear 52 is in the power child lock position (PCL)). Simultaneously, during the counterclockwise rotation of the power release gear 52, the power child lock lug, also called the locking lug 82, engages with the driven extension of the drive sector 84, also called the nose portion 83, thereby rotatably driving the drive sector 84 about axis A1 from its home position to the deployment position. As the drive sector 84 rotates from its home position, a radially outwardly extending protrusion of the drive sector 84, also called the stop portion 88, moves against the bias of a biasing member, shown as a torsion spring and hereinafter referred to as the toggle spring 90. The toggle spring 90 releasably holds the drive sector 84 in its original position until the force applied by the toggle spring 90 is overcome by the driven force applied to the nose portion 83 by the lug 82, until the drive sector 84 reaches its deployed position. In the deployed position, the toggle spring 90 releasably holds the drive sector 84 in its deployed position. With the drive sector 84 in its deployed position, the locking lug 82 is radially aligned with the nose portion 83, so that the drive sector 84 is temporarily blocked by the locking lug 84 and cannot return to its original position. With the drive sector 84 blocked from returning to its original position, as further discussed, the latch assembly 10 is temporarily positioned in its child lock open state. Figure 9A Then, when the ECU 64 detects that the power release gear 52 has reached the power child lock position (PCL), the ECU 64 commands the power release actuator 30 to return the power release gear 52 from the power child lock position (PCL) to its original position (HP). In the original position, the locking lug 82 moves out of the blocking engagement with the nose 83, and the latch assembly 10 changes from the child lock open state to the child lock closed state and the double pull open state.

[0144] To complete the transition of the latch assembly 10 to the double-pull open state, as the drive sector 84 moves from its original position to its deployed position, a drive sector biasing member, shown as a drive coil spring 86, biases the powered child lock sector hereinafter referred to as child lock sector 92, causing child lock sector 92 to pivot about a common axis A1 with the drive sector 84. Child lock sector 92 is pivotally connected to a powered child lock link hereinafter referred to as locking link 94, which in turn is pivotally connected to an inner locking sector 96. The inner locking sector 96 is supported for pivoting about axis A2 in response to rotation of child lock sector 92 for selective engagement with inner locking lever 98 and double pull rod 100. Inner locking lever 98 and double pull rod 100 are configured for pivoting about a common axis A3. The inner locking sector 96 has a drive surface 102 configured to engage with the driven surface 104 of the inner locking lever 98, and the double lever 100 has a drive surface 106 configured to engage with the driven surface 108 of the inner locking sector 96. When the drive surface 102 drives the driven surface 104, the inner locking lever 98 is rotatably driven about axis A3 in a counterclockwise direction (e.g., Figure 9B As observed in [the study], the drive arm 110 of the inner locking lever 98 engages the driven surface of the inner locking link 76, also known as the lug 111, to overcome the bias applied by the inner locking link biasing member 78 and move the inner locking link 76. As the inner locking link 76 moves against the bias applied by the inner locking link biasing member 78, the inner locking link 76 translates within the groove 112 of the inner release lever 72, wherein the pin 114 extending from the inner release lever 72 is guided along the groove 116 of the inner locking link 76, thereby causing the drive lug 118 of the inner locking link 76 to move away from possible engagement with the driven surface 77 of the actuator lever 45.

[0145] When in the double-pull open state ( Figure 10A and Figure 10B When the inner release rod 72, driven by the actuation of the inner release mechanism 24, is pulled for the first time, the driving surface 120 engages the driven member 122. The driving surface 120 is shown as a side portion of the groove 121 in the inner release rod 72, and the driven member 122 is shown as a pin fixed to the double pull rod 100 and extending into the groove 121, thereby causing the double pull rod 100 to rotate counterclockwise about axis A3. Figure 10B and Figure 11B As observed in the diagram. When the double lever 100 rotates in response to the movement of the inner release lever 72, the drive surface 106 of the double lever 100 engages with and drives the driven surface 108 of the inner locking sector 96, thereby causing the inner locking lever 96 to rotate counterclockwise about axis A2, as... Figure 10A and Figure 11A As observed, this causes the driving surface 102 of the inner locking sector 96 to rotate relative to the driven surface 104 of the inner locking lever 98, thus allowing the inner locking lever 98 to move under the bias of the inner locking link biasing member 78. Consequently, the inner locking link 76 translates freely along the pin 114. When the inner locking lever 96 rotates about axis A2, the locking link 94 is driven to the left, as... Figure 11A As observed, this causes the child lock sector 92 to be driven counterclockwise, thereby driving the transmission sector 84 counterclockwise to overcome the bias of the toggle spring 90 and move the stop 88, thus bringing the nose 83 back to potential engagement with the locking lug 82. During the first pull of the inner release lever 72, the drive lug 118 passes around the driven surface of the actuator lever 45, thereby holding the pawl 34 in its ratchet-holding position and thus holding the latch assembly 10 in its latched state. Then, when the first pull on the inner release lever 72 is released, the inner release lever returns to its original position under the bias of the inner release lever biasing member 74. Figure 12A and Figure 12B Therefore, the inner locking link 76 returns to its original position under the bias of the inner locking link biasing member 78, in which the drive lug 118 is aligned with the driven surface 77 of the actuator rod 45. In itself, upon completion of the first pull, the actuation mechanism 70 returns to its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position.

[0146] With the actuation mechanism 70 returned to its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position, the inner release lever 72 is pulled a second time ( Figure 13A and Figure 13B This causes the drive lug 118 of the inner locking link 76 to engage and drive the driven surface 77 of the actuator rod 45, thereby overcoming the bias applied by the actuator rod biasing member 124, shown as a torsion spring, and causing the actuator rod 45 to rotate about axis A4. By way of example and not limitation, this causes the drive surface 47 of the actuator rod 45 to fully drive the pawl 36, thereby moving the pawl 34 from its ratchet-hold position to its ratchet-release position. Thus, a second pull on the inner release lever 72 via the inner release mechanism 24 causes the latch assembly 10 to move to its unlatched position, whereby the actuation mechanism 70 remains in its double-pull-closed position and child lock closed position.

[0147] When it is necessary to move the actuator 70 to the double-pull closed and child lock open position, the power release actuator 30 is energized to move the power release gear 52 from its original position (HP) around axis A. Figure 14A Turn counterclockwise to the power child lock position (PCL) Figure 15A ), and the above about Figure 9AThe same applies to the discussion. The power release gear 52 is held in the powered child lock position (PCL) as needed, and in the powered child lock position, the actuation mechanism 70 remains in the child lock open position. As long as the actuation mechanism 70 remains in the child lock open position, such as... Figures 16A to 17B As shown, any repeated pulling of the inner release lever 72 failed to engage the drive lug 118 with the actuator lever 45, and therefore, the actuator lever 45, pawl release lever 36, pawl 34 and ratchet 32 ​​remained stationary, and the actuation mechanism 70 remained in the child lock open state.

[0148] When it is necessary to return the actuator 70 to one of the double-pull open, double-pull closed, or child lock closed positions, the power release gear 52 moves clockwise from the power child lock position (PCL) to the original position (HP) via the actuation axis A of the power release actuator 30. Figure 18A In its original position, the actuation mechanism 70 moves to the double-pull open state. When in the double-pull open state, the double pull of the inner release lever 72 via the inner release mechanism 24 causes the actuation mechanism 70 to return to the double-pull closed, child lock closed state, as described above. Figures 11A to 14B The subject of discussion.

[0149] exist Figure 19 Figure 35 illustrates a latch assembly 210 constructed according to another aspect of this disclosure, wherein similar features are identified using reference numerals that are the same as those used above, but differ by a factor of 200. Latch assembly 210 performs a function similar to that described above for latch assembly 10; however, latch assembly 210 uses fewer parts, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing weight and cost.

[0150] The latch assembly 210 includes a latching mechanism 216 configured to releasably latch and retain a striker 18 mounted to the sill portion 20 of the vehicle body 22 when the swing door 12 is closed, as described above for the latch assembly 10. Therefore, the latch assembly 10 can be latched via an inner release mechanism 24, an outer release mechanism 26, and / or a remote key 28. Figure 2The latch assembly 210 is selectively actuated by mechanical actuation. As will be described in detail, the latch assembly 210 is also configured to be powered to perform a variety of functions, including: achieving a power release; achieving an inside double-pull release (via an inside double-pull mechanism 24); and placing the latch assembly 210 in a powered child lock position via selective actuation of a single power release actuator, such as an electric motor 230. The latch mechanism 216 is contained in a housing, which is partially shown via a latch frame plate 229, in which some components have been removed only for clarity. The latch mechanism 216 includes a ratchet 232 and a pawl 234, and a release lever, also referred to as a release link, pawl release link, pawl release lever, or pawl lever 236. Ratchet 232 is movable about a ratchet pivot axis, defined by a ratchet post or rivet 233, between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position. In the pin-capture position, ratchet 232 holds both pin 18 and swing door 12 in the closed position. In the pin-release position, ratchet 232 allows pin 18 to release from the fishmouth portion 19 provided by the latch housing of latch assembly 210, allowing swing door 12 to move to the open position. A ratchet biasing member 240, such as a spring, is configured to bias ratchet 232 toward its pin-release position under normal conditions. Pad 234 is movable about a pad pivot axis, defined by a pad post or rivet 235, between a ratchet hold position and a ratchet release position. In the ratchet hold position, pad 234 holds ratchet 232 in its pin-capture position. In the ratchet release position, pad 234 allows ratchet 232 to move to its pin-release position. Pawl biasing member 242, such as a suitable spring, is configured to bias pawl 234 toward its ratchet holding position under normal conditions.

[0151] Pad release lever 236 is operably (directly or indirectly, and shown by way of example and not limitation as being directly via another component, such as an intermediate pad release lever or an auxiliary pad release lever) engaged, also referred to as connected to pad 234. By way of example and not limitation, pad release lever 236 is movable between a deployed position, also referred to as the pad release position, and a non-deployed position, also referred to as the original position. In the deployed position, pad release lever 236 moves pad 234 to its ratchet release position against the bias of pad bias member 242. In the non-deployed position, pad release lever 236 allows pad 234 to be in its ratchet holding position under the bias of pad bias member 242.

[0152] The pawl release lever 236 can be moved to its pawl-release position under normal power actuation via selective power actuation of the power release actuator 230, as discussed above with respect to the latch assembly 10, by a command sent to the ECU 64. The power release actuator 30 has an output section, shown as provided by an output member also referred to as an output shaft 248, wherein a power release gear 252 is configured to mesh with an output gear also referred to as a main drive gear or drive gear 250, wherein the drive gear 250 is shown as a worm gear mounted on the output shaft 248. The power release gear 252 moves from its original position (HP) along a first direction (clockwise, as... Figure 20A The driven movement from the observed position (also known as the powered child lock position) to the full-stroke release position is configured to move the pawl release lever 236 to its pawl release position, in which the pawl 234 moves to its ratchet release position. The powered movement of the pawl release lever 236 to its pawl release position can be achieved via the powered release gear cam member 243 fixed to the powered release gear 252. Figure 20A The movement of the cam member 243 is achieved by engaging the actuator rod 245, thus driving the actuator rod 245 clockwise, as... Figure 20A As observed, the drive surface 247 of the actuator rod 245 is driven to engage with the pawl rod 236, thereby driving the pawl rod 236 and the pawl 34 to the ratchet release position of the pawl 34.

[0153] In addition to the normal power release performed by the selective power actuation of the electric motor 230 discussed above, the power release gear 252 can also be driven from its original position HP in a second counterclockwise direction, such as... Figure 20A As observed, the actuator 270 can be moved from the double-pull closed state and the child lock closed state to one of the double-pull open state and the child lock open state via selective power actuation of the electric motor 30 as needed, as discussed further below.

[0154] When the actuation mechanism 270 is in its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position, it allows for a single actuation of the inner release mechanism 224 to move the pawl 234 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet release position, such as... Figures 23A to 25B As illustrated in the diagram. Selective actuation of the actuation mechanism 270 can be achieved via the inner release mechanism 24. The inner release mechanism 24 ( Figure 24A and Figure 24BThe mechanical actuation (pulling) overcomes the bias applied by the inner release lever biasing member 274, shown as a helical spring, and, by way of example and not limitation, moves the inner release lever 272, for example, pivotally from a rest position to a deployed position. The movement of the inner release lever 272 to the deployed position causes the inner locking link 276 to engage with the driven surface 277 of the actuator lever 245. The actuator lever 245 is then rotatably driven to engage the driven surface 247 with the pawl lever 236, thereby driving the pawl 234 to its ratchet-release position. By way of example and not limitation, the inner locking link 276 is biased to a rest engaged position by the inner locking link biasing member 278, shown as a torsion spring, in which the inner locking link 276 is positioned for engagement with the driven surface 277 of the actuator lever 245 when the inner release lever 272 is actuated.

[0155] like Figures 26A to 27B As shown, when it is necessary to move the latch assembly 210 to the double-pull open position, in the double-pull open position, the inner release lever 272 needs to be actuated twice in succession to move the pawl 234 to its ratchet release position. The power release actuator 230 is energized to drive the power release gear 252 counterclockwise from the original position (HP) to the power child lock position (PCL) about axis A. Figure 26A And then the power release gear 252 is driven clockwise from the power child lock position (PCL) back to the original position (HP). Figure 27AWhen the power release gear 252 is driven counterclockwise from the home position (HP) to the powered child lock position (PCL), the position sensor 267 is activated via a sensor lug 280 fixed to the power release gear 252, wherein the position sensor 267 is configured to electrically communicate with the ECU 64 to indicate that the power release gear 252 is in the powered child lock position (PCL). Simultaneously, during the counterclockwise rotation of the power release gear 252, the powered child lock lug, also called the locking lug 282, engages with the driven extension of the drive sector 284, also called the nose portion 283, thereby rotatably driving the drive sector 284 about axis A1 from its home position to the deployed position. As the drive sector 284 rotates from its home position, a radially outwardly extending protrusion of the drive sector 284, also called the stop portion 288, moves against the bias of a biasing member, shown as a torsion spring and hereinafter referred to as a toggle spring 290. The toggle spring 290 releasably holds the drive sector 284 in its original position until the force applied by the toggle spring 290 is overcome by the driven force applied to the nose portion 283 by the lug 282, until the drive sector 284 reaches its deployed position. In the deployed position, the toggle spring 290 releasably holds the drive sector 284 in its deployed position. With the drive sector 284 in its deployed position, the locking lug 282 is radially aligned with the nose portion 283, so that the drive sector 284 is temporarily blocked by the locking lug 282 and cannot return to its original position. With the drive sector 284 blocked from returning to its original position, as discussed above with respect to the drive sector 84 and the locking lug 82, the latch assembly 210 is temporarily positioned in its child lock open state. Figure 26A Then, when ECU 64 detects that the power release gear 252 has reached the power child lock position (PCL), ECU 64 commands the power release actuator 230 to be energized, so that the power release gear 252 returns from the power child lock position (PCL) to its original power position (HP). Figure 27A As a result, the locking lug 282 moves away from the blocking engagement with the nose portion 283, and the latch assembly 210 changes from the child lock open state to the child lock closed state and the double pull open state.

[0156] To complete the transition of the latch assembly 210 to the double-pull open state, when the drive sector 284 moves from its original position to its deployed position, a drive sector biasing member, shown as a drive coil spring 286, biases the power child lock sector hereinafter referred to as child lock sector 292, causing the child lock sector 292 to pivot about a common axis A1 with the drive sector 284. The child lock sector 292 is pivotally connected to a power child lock link hereinafter referred to as locking link 294, which in turn is pivotally connected directly to an inner locking lever 298. Unlike actuation mechanism 70, actuation mechanism 270 does not have an inner locking sector or a double pull rod. The inner locking lever 98 is configured for pivoting about axis A3. When the locking linkage 294 is driven by the child lock sector 292, the inner locking lever 298 is rotatably driven in a counterclockwise direction around axis A3 (e.g., Figure 26B As observed in [the study], the drive arm 210 of the inner locking lever 298 engages the driven surface of the inner locking link 276, also known as the lug 211, to overcome the bias applied by the inner locking link biasing member 278 and move the inner locking link 276. As the inner locking link 276 moves against the bias applied by the inner locking link biasing member 278, the inner locking link 276 translates within the groove 212 of the inner release lever 272, wherein the pin 214 extending from the inner release lever 272 is guided along the groove 216 of the inner locking link 272, thereby causing the drive lug 218 of the inner locking link 276 to move away from possible engagement with the driven surface 277 of the actuator lever 245.

[0157] When in the double-pull open state ( Figure 27A and Figure 27B When the inner release lever 272 is pulled for the first time by the actuation of the inner release mechanism 24, the driving surface 220 engages the driven member 222. The driving surface 220 is shown as the surface of a groove in the inner release lever 272, also known as a notch 221. The driven member 222 is shown as a pin fixed to the inner locking lever 298 and extending into the notch 221, thereby causing the inner locking lever 298 to rotate counterclockwise about axis A3. Figure 27B and Figure 28B As observed in the diagram, when the inner locking lever 298 rotates in response to the movement of the inner release lever 272, the locking link 294 is driven to the left, as... Figure 28AAs observed, this causes the child lock sector 292 to be driven counterclockwise, thereby driving the transmission sector 284 counterclockwise to overcome the bias of the toggle spring 290 and move the stop 288, thus bringing the nose 283 back to potential engagement with the locking lug 282. During the first pull of the inner release lever 272, the drive lug 218 passes around the driven surface of the actuator lever 245, thereby holding the pawl 234 in its ratchet holding position, and thus holding the latch assembly 210′ ​​in its latched state. Then, when the first pull on the inner release lever 272 is released, the inner release lever returns to its original position under the bias of the inner release lever biasing member 274. Figure 29A and Figure 29B Therefore, the inner locking link 276 returns to its original position under the bias of the inner locking link biasing member 278. In the original position, the drive lug 218 is aligned with the driven surface 277 of the actuator rod 245. In itself, upon completion of the first pull, the actuation mechanism 70 returns to its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position.

[0158] With the actuation mechanism 270 returned to its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position, the inner release lever 272 is pulled a second time ( Figure 30A and Figure 30B This causes the drive lug 218 of the inner locking link 276 to engage and drive the driven surface 277 of the actuator rod 245, thereby overcoming the bias applied by the actuator rod biasing member 224, shown as a torsion spring, and causing the actuator rod 245 to rotate about axis A4. By way of example and not limitation, this causes the drive surface 247 of the actuator rod 245 to fully drive the pawl 236, thereby moving the pawl 234 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet release position. Therefore, a second pull on the inner release rod 272 via the inner release mechanism 24 causes the latch assembly 210 to move to its unlocked position, whereby the actuator mechanism 270 remains in its double-pull closed position and child lock closed position.

[0159] When it is necessary to move the actuator 270 to the double-pull closed and child lock open position, the power release actuator 230 is energized to move the power release gear 252 from its original position (HP) around axis A. Figure 31A Turn counterclockwise to the power child lock position (PCL) Figure 32A ), and the above about Figure 26A The same applies to the discussion. The power release gear 252 is held in the powered child lock position (PCL) as needed, and in the powered child lock position, the actuation mechanism 270 remains in the child lock open position. As long as the actuation mechanism 270 remains in the child lock open position, such as... Figures 32A to 34BAs shown, any repeated pulling of the inner release lever 272 failed to engage the drive lug 218 with the actuator lever 245, and therefore, the actuator lever 245, pawl release lever 236, pawl 234 and ratchet 232 remained stationary, and the actuation mechanism 270 remained in the child lock open state.

[0160] When it is necessary to return the actuator 270 to one of the double-pull open, double-pull closed, or child lock closed positions, the power release gear 252 moves clockwise around axis A from the power child lock position (PCL) to the original position (HP) via the actuation axis A of the power release actuator 230. Figure 35A In its original position, the actuation mechanism 270 moves to the double-pull open state. When in the double-pull open state, the double pull of the inner release lever 272 via the inner release mechanism 24 causes the actuation mechanism 270 to return to the double-pull closed, child lock closed state, as described above. Figures 28A to 31B The subject of discussion.

[0161] According to another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 36 As shown, a method 1000 is provided to perform multiple functions using a single power actuator 30, 230 of a power latch assembly 10, 210, the power latch assembly 10, 210 having ratchet 32, 232 and pawl 34, 234, the ratchet 32, 232 configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and biased toward the pin-release position, the pawl 34, 234 configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, in the ratchet-hold position the pawl 34, 234 holding the ratchet 32, 232 in the pin-capture position, and in the ratchet-release position the pawl 34, 234 releasing the ratchet 32, 232 to move the ratchet 32, 232 to the pin-release position. Method 1000 includes step 1100: configuring individual power actuators 30, 230 to selectively move pawls 34, 234 from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position when the power latch assemblies 10, 210 are in a latch closed / unlocked position. Method 1000 further includes step 1200: configuring individual power actuators 30, 230 to selectively place the power latch assembly 10 in a double-pull open state, in which pawls 34, 234 move from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position upon completion of a first and second mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism 24. Method 1000 further includes step 1300: configuring individual power actuators 30, 230 to selectively place the power latch assemblies 10, 210 in a child lock open state, in which repeated mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism 24 fails to move pawls 34, 234 from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0162] According to another aspect, method 1000 may include step 1400: arranging power release gears 52, 252 in operative communication with individual power actuators 30, 230, and configuring the individual power actuators 30, 230 to drive power release gears 52, 252 from their original position HP in a first direction to a release position RP, thereby operatively driving pawls 34, 234 from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position, and driving power release gears 52, 252 from their original position HP in a second direction to a locking position LP, thereby operatively placing power latch assemblies 10, 210 in one of a double-pull open state and a child lock open state.

[0163] The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Elements or features of a particular embodiment may also vary in many ways. These variations should not be considered as departing from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0164] The embodiments of the present invention can be understood with reference to the following numbered paragraphs:

[0165] 1. A powered latch assembly for closing a panel, the powered latch assembly comprising:

[0166] A ratchet configured to move between a pin-capturing position and a pin-releasing position, and the ratchet being biased toward the pin-releasing position;

[0167] A pawl configured to move between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, wherein in the ratchet holding position the ratchet holds the ratchet in the pin-capturing position, and in the ratchet release position the ratchet releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position; and

[0168] A single power actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position to selectively place the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state and a child lock open state. In the double-pull open state, double mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position. In the child lock open state, repeated mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism does not move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0169] 2. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 1 further includes a power release gear configured to be operably connected to the single power actuator, wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from an initial position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position, and wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the initial position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

[0170] 3. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 2, wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the locked position back to the original position along the first direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the double-pull open state.

[0171] 4. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 2 further includes an actuator rod operably connecting the power release gear to the pawl, wherein the power release gear moves from the original position along the first direction to the release position, causing the power release gear to drive the actuator rod from the rest position to the deployment position, wherein the pawl is driven from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0172] 5. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 4 further includes an inner release lever having an inner locking link connected to the inner release lever for movement relative to the inner release lever between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the inner locking link is moved to disengage from the actuator rod during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism, and in the unlocked position, the inner locking link is moved to engage with the actuator rod during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism, wherein, when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state, movement of the inner locking link from the locked position to the unlocked position is prevented.

[0173] 6. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 5 further includes a locking link operably connecting the power release gear to the inner locking link so as to cause the inner locking link to move from the unlocked position to the locked position in response to the power release gear moving from the original position to the locked position.

[0174] 7. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 6 further includes a locking lug fixed to the power release gear, the locking lug being configured to prevent the locking link from moving when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state, thereby preventing the inner locking link from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0175] 8. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 7 further includes a drive sector operably connecting the power release gear to the locking link, the drive sector being configured to move from the original position to the deployed position under the force applied by the locking lug when the power release gear moves from the original position to the locked position, thereby moving the locking link to move the inner locking link from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0176] 9. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 8 further includes a toggle spring configured to engage with a stop portion of the drive sector, thereby releasably holding the drive sector in one of the original position and the deployed position.

[0177] 10. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 8, wherein when the power release gear is in the locked position, the locking lug prevents the drive sector from moving from the deployed position to the original position, thereby holding the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

[0178] 11. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 6 further includes an inner locking lever, the inner locking lever being operably connected to the locking link, the inner locking lever being configured to cause the inner locking link to move from the unlocked position to the locked position in response to the power release gear moving from the original position to the locked position.

[0179] 12. The power latch assembly according to paragraph 11, wherein the inner locking lever is directly coupled to the locking link, and wherein the inner locking lever is configured to directly engage with the inner release lever and the inner locking link.

[0180] 13. A method for performing multiple functions using a single power actuator of a power latch assembly, the power latch assembly having a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet configured to move between a pin-capture position and a pin-release position and biased toward the pin-release position, the pawl configured to move between a ratchet-hold position and a ratchet-release position, wherein in the ratchet-hold position the pawl holds the ratchet in the pin-capture position, and in the ratchet-release position the pawl releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin-release position, the method comprising:

[0181] The single power actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position when the power latch assembly is in the latch closed, unlocked position;

[0182] The single power actuator is configured to place the power latch assembly in the child lock open state, in which repetitive mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism fails to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and

[0183] When the single power actuator is configured to place the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state, the first mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism moves the power latch assembly from the double-pull open state to the double-pull closed state.

[0184] 14. The method according to paragraph 13 further includes: arranging a power release gear in operably connected to the single power actuator, and configuring the single power actuator to drive the power release gear from an initial position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position, and operably driving the pawl from the initial position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

[0185] 15. The method according to paragraph 14 further includes: configuring the single power actuator to drive the power release gear from the locked position back to the original position in the first direction, thereby placing the power latch assembly in the double-pull open state.

[0186] 16. The method according to paragraph 15 further includes: operably connecting the power release gear to the pawl with an actuator rod, wherein the power release gear moves from the original position along the first direction to the release position at the pawl, causing the power release gear to drive the actuator rod from the rest position to the deployment position, wherein the pawl is driven from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position at the deployment position.

[0187] 17. A method for performing multiple functions using a power latch assembly having a single power actuator, the multiple functions including:

[0188] Energize the single power actuator and move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position;

[0189] The single power actuator is energized and the power latch assembly is moved to the double-pull open state, in which the double mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and

[0190] The single power actuator is energized and the power latch assembly is moved to the child lock open state, in which repeated mechanical actuation of the inner release mechanism will not move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0191] 18. The method according to paragraph 17, further comprising: energizing the single power actuator and driving the power release gear from its original position to a release position in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position; and energizing the single power actuator and driving the power release gear from its original position to a locking position in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

[0192] 19. The method according to paragraph 18 further includes: placing the power latch assembly in the double-pull open state by driving the power release gear from the locked position back to the original position in the first direction using the single power actuator.

[0193] 20. The method according to paragraph 18 further includes: operably engaging the power release gear to the pawl with an actuator lever and moving the power release gear from the original position along the first direction to the release position to drive the actuator lever from the rest position to the deployment position, wherein the pawl is driven from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position in the deployment position.

Claims

1. A powered latch assembly for closing a panel (12), the powered latch assembly comprising: A ratchet configured to move between a pin-capturing position and a pin-releasing position, and the ratchet being biased toward the pin-releasing position; A pawl configured to move between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, wherein in the ratchet holding position the ratchet holds the ratchet in the pin catch position, and in the ratchet release position the ratchet releases the ratchet to move the ratchet to the pin release position; A single power actuator is configured to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position to selectively place the power latch assembly in a double-pull open state or in a child lock open state. In the double-pull open state, the double mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism (24) moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position. In the child lock open state, the mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism (24) does not move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position. A power release gear, the power release gear being configured to be operatively connected to the single power actuator; An inner release lever, the inner release lever having an inner locking link connected to the inner release lever; A locking link, wherein the locking link is operable to connect the power release gear to the inner locking link; as well as A locking lug is fixed to the power release gear and configured to engage with the driven extension of the drive sector of the power latch assembly when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state. The locking lug is configured to prevent the locking link from moving when the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state, thereby preventing the inner locking link from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position.

2. The power latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the initial position (HP) to the release position (RP) in a first direction, thereby operably driving the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position, and wherein the single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the initial position (HP) to the locking position (LP) in a second direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

3. The power latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The single power actuator is configured to drive the power release gear from the locked position (LP) back to the original position (HP) in the first direction, thereby operably placing the power latch assembly in the double-pull open state.

4. The power latch assembly of claim 2, further comprising an actuator lever operably connecting the power release gear to the pawl, wherein the power release gear moves from the initial position (HP) to the release position (RP) in the first direction such that the power release gear drives the actuator lever from a rest position to a deployment position, wherein the pawl is driven from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

5. The power latch assembly of claim 4, wherein the inner locking link is movable relative to the inner release lever between the locked position and the unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the inner locking link is moved to disengage from the actuator lever during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism (24), and in the unlocked position, the inner locking link is moved to engage with the actuator lever during mechanical actuation of the inner mechanical release mechanism (24), wherein, When the power latch assembly is in the child lock open state, it prevents the inner locking link from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position.

6. The power latch assembly of claim 5, wherein the locking link moves from the unlocked position to the locked position in response to the power release gear moving from the original position (HP) to the locked position (LP).

7. The power latch assembly of claim 6, wherein the drive sector operably connects the power release gear to the locking link, the drive sector being configured to move from the original position (HP) to the deployed position under the force applied by the locking lug when the power release gear moves from the original position (HP) to the locked position (LP), thereby moving the locking link to move the inner locking link from the unlocked position to the locked position.

8. The power latch assembly of claim 7 further includes a toggle spring configured to engage with a stop portion of the drive sector, thereby releasably holding the drive sector in one of the original position and the deployed position.

9. The power latch assembly according to claim 7, wherein, When the power release gear is in the locked position (LP), the locking lug prevents the drive sector from moving from the deployed position to the original position, thereby keeping the power latch assembly in the child lock open state.

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