Pawl connector for glove box latch

Abstract

A vehicle glove box latch and a method of assembling the vehicle glove box latch are disclosed. The latch includes: an actuator mounted for movement relative to the vehicle glove box; a rotor coupled to the actuator and mounted for rotation about a rotor axis; and a pawl coupled to the rotor and movable along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis. An engaging portion of the pawl engages an opening in the vehicle in which the vehicle glove box is mounted. The engaging portion of the pawl defines a recess for receiving a lever of the rotor and resists accidental separation of the lever from the recess along the direction of the recess. A retainer of the rotor is positioned to restrict movement of the engaging portion along the direction of the rotor axis and resists accidental separation of the engaging portion from the lever along the direction of the rotor axis.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 209,690, filed June 11, 2021, entitled “Pawl Connector for Glove Box Latch,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to the field of latches configured to provide a mechanical connection between adjacent components, and particularly to a latching system for securing a glove box or accessory compartment door in an automotive position in a closed position. Background Technology

[0004] Automotive door closing systems, such as glove boxes, typically consist of a housing, a door, and a latch that works with one or more strikers to hold the door in the closed position to cover the housing. A continued need has been identified to improve existing door closing systems or to provide alternatives. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, a vehicle glove box latch includes an actuator, a rotor coupled to the actuator, and a pawl coupled to the rotor. The actuator is configured to be mounted for movement relative to the vehicle glove box. The rotor is configured to be mounted for rotation about a rotor axis relative to the vehicle glove box. The pawl includes opposing ends and is movable along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis. One end of the opposing ends of the pawl includes an engagement portion configured to engage with an opening in the vehicle in which the vehicle glove box is mounted, and the other end of the opposing ends of the pawl includes a connecting portion positioned for connecting the pawl to the rotor. The connecting portion of the pawl defines a recess that opens in a direction angled relative to both the pawl axis and the rotor axis. The rotor has a detent that extends along the rotor axis and enters into the recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl. The rotor also includes a retainer spaced apart from the pawl and extending in a direction transverse to the rotor axis. A recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl is shaped to receive the rotor's pawl and resist accidental separation of the rotor's pawl from the recess along the direction of the recess. The rotor retainer is positioned to restrict movement of the connecting portion of the pawl along the rotor axis and resist accidental separation of the connecting portion of the pawl from the rotor's pawl along the rotor axis.

[0006] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for assembling a vehicle glove box latch assembly includes the following steps: orienting a pawl relative to a rotor such that the pawl is movable along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis, one end of opposite ends of the pawl including an engagement portion configured to engage an opening in a vehicle, wherein a vehicle glove box is mounted in the vehicle, and the other end of opposite ends of the pawl including a connecting portion positioned for connecting the pawl to the rotor; orienting the connecting portion of the pawl using a recess that opens along a recess direction angled relative to both the pawl axis and the rotor axis; extending a rotor retainer in a direction transverse to the rotor axis; receiving a rotor catch in the recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl and resisting accidental separation of the rotor catch from the recess along the recess direction; positioning the rotor retainer to restrict movement of the connecting portion of the pawl along the rotor axis and resisting accidental separation of the connecting portion of the pawl from the rotor catch along the rotor axis, thereby resisting accidental separation of the pawl from the rotor along the rotor axis and along the recess direction angled relative to the rotor axis. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The above and other aspects and features of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] Figure 1A A perspective view depicts a first exemplary embodiment of a vehicle glove box latch for a vehicle glove box, the vehicle glove box latch being shown as a door mounted to a vehicle glove box.

[0009] Figure 1B Depicting in Figure 1A Another perspective view of the vehicle glove box latch shown in the image.

[0010] Figure 2A This is a top view of the pawl and rotor of the vehicle's glove box latch.

[0011] Figure 2B Is Figure 2A The image shows a perspective view of the pawl and rotor.

[0012] Figure 3A This is a top view of the vehicle glove box latch, which is shown as being locked.

[0013] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A The locked state of the vehicle glove box latch is shown in a sectional view taken along line 3B-3B.

[0014] Figure 3C yes Figure 3BA detailed view of a portion of the image shows a recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl, which is shaped to receive the rotor's lever.

[0015] Figure 3D This is a 3D view of the glove box latch of a vehicle in a locked state.

[0016] Figure 3E yes Figure 3D A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0017] Figure 4A This is a top view of the vehicle's glove box latch, showing the full travel distance of the pawl, such as the unlocked state.

[0018] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The vehicle glove box latch is in the unlocked state, as shown in the sectional view taken along line 4B-4B.

[0019] Figure 4C yes Figure 4B A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0020] Figure 4D This is a 3D view of the glove box latch of a vehicle in the unlocked state.

[0021] Figure 4E yes Figure 4D A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0022] Figure 5A This is a top view of the vehicle's glove box latch, showing the position where the pawl is ready to be installed.

[0023] Figure 5B This is a top view of the vehicle's glove box latch, showing the pawl installed and locked.

[0024] Figure 5C This is a top view of the vehicle glove box latch, where the vehicle glove box latch is shown in the unlocked state.

[0025] Figure 5D This is a top view of the vehicle's glove box latch, showing the full travel distance of the pawl.

[0026] Figure 6A , 6B Views 6C, 6D, 6E, and 6F depict embodiments of the pawl of a vehicle glove box latch.

[0027] Figure 6G yes Figure 6F A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0028] Figure 6H , 6I 6J and 6K depict additional views of the pawl.

[0029] Figure 6L yes Figure 6K A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0030] Figure 7A , 7B Views 7C, 7D, 7E, and 7F depict embodiments of the rotor of a vehicle glove box latch.

[0031] Figure 7G yes Figure 7F A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0032] Figure 7H , 7I Additional views of the rotor are depicted in 7J and 7K.

[0033] Figure 7L yes Figure 7K A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0034] Figure 8A-8G A view depicting an embodiment of the actuator for a vehicle glove box latch.

[0035] Figure 9 This is an isometric view of the torsion spring of the vehicle's glove box latch.

[0036] Figure 10 An exemplary method for assembling a latch assembly is described. Detailed Implementation

[0037] While the invention has been shown and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made to the details within the scope and range of the equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

[0038] An embodiment of a vehicle glove box latch 100 for use in conjunction with various aspects of the present invention is disclosed. For example... Figure 1A-1B As shown, a vehicle glove box latch 100 is used to unlock or lock a door assembly having a door 102 (only its front panel is shown). For example, door 102 may be a glove box door for a vehicle. Although not shown, door 102 is mounted on an opening, such as an opening formed in the dashboard of a vehicle. Door 102 is hinged to the opening and can move between a closed position and an open position, as is known in the art.

[0039] In the closed position, the front surface (not shown) of door 102 is flush with the surface of the dashboard. Opposite to the front surface is the rear surface 106 of door 102. In the open position, door 102 protrudes from the surface of the dashboard. A stop (not shown) is provided around the perimeter of the opening in the dashboard. Door 102 can be a single component or composed of multiple components mounted together. Door 102 is typically rectangular in shape and includes a front surface and a rear surface 106. Figure 1A-1B As shown, two protrusions 108 and 110 protrude outward from the rear surface 106 of the door 102 in a rearward direction.

[0040] Reference Figure 2A-2B The protrusions 108 and 110 each include an aperture 112 and 114 extending therethrough. Each of the inward-facing sides of apertures 112 and 114 may include a clip 104 with a resilient tab (not shown). Figure 2B The elastic tab is capable of accommodating the lateral movement of the pawls (such as pawls 120 and 122) located therein.

[0041] A vehicle glove box latch 100 is mounted to door 102 to releasably hold door 102 in the closed position. The vehicle glove box latch 100 is at least partially positioned within a recessed area (not shown) of door 102, such that an actuator (such as a user-operated paddle 116 of the vehicle glove box latch 100)... Figure 8A-8G The front surface 134 of the door is flush with or slightly recessed relative to the front surface of the door 102. Alternatively, as specified by design, the paddle 116 may protrude slightly or significantly. The vehicle glove box latch 100 may be mounted to the door 102 by means of fastening devices, such as threaded fasteners and clips on the housing of the vehicle glove box latch 100.

[0042] It should be understood that the means for mounting the vehicle glove box latch 100 can be varied. For example, the means for mounting may include multiple clips, multiple fasteners, snaps, clamps, welds, adhesives, barbs, slots, forks, or surfaces, or any other means, such as those capable of mounting the vehicle glove box latch 100 to the door 102.

[0043] The main components of the vehicle glove box latch 100 for a vehicle glove box are actuator 116, rotor 118, and pawls (such as pawls 120 and 122). It should be understood that the vehicle glove box latch 100 may include only one of pawls 120 and 122, or alternatively, the vehicle glove box latch 100 may include multiple pawls 120 and 122. Optionally, the vehicle glove box latch 100 may include multiple pawls, including pawls 120 and 122.

[0044] Actuators, such as user-operated paddle 116 ( Figure 3D The paddle 116 is configured to be mounted for movement relative to the vehicle glove box. Specifically, the paddle 116 is pivotally mounted relative to the front surface of the door 102 about a pivot axis. The rotor 118 is coupled to the paddle and configured to be mounted relative to the vehicle glove box about a rotor axis. Figure 7H Rotation. In particular, the rotor 118 is rotatably mounted about a concentric axis relative to the rear surface 106 of the door 102.

[0045] Pads 120 and 122 are configured to be coupled to rotor 118. Pads 120 and 122 have opposite ends and are capable of moving along a pad axis angled relative to the rotor axis. Figure 7H ) movement. Specifically, such as Figure 5D As shown, the pawl 120 is along the axis of the rotor ( Figure 7H Pad 120 travels along direction 120d at an angle to the rotor axis, and pad 122 travels along direction 122d along a pad axis at an angle to the rotor axis. Furthermore, pads 120 and 122 can travel along the pad axis (…). Figure 5D It moves between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0046] One end of the opposing ends of pawls 120 and 122 includes an engaging portion, such as free ends 120a and 122a respectively, configured to engage with corresponding openings 176a and 176b (or collectively referred to as opening 176) in a vehicle in which a glove box is mounted. The other end of the opposing ends of pawls 120 and 122 includes a connecting portion, such as connecting portions 120b and 122b, positioned for connecting pawls 120 and 122 to rotor 118 respectively.

[0047] Additionally or optionally, and although not explicitly shown in the accompanying drawings, the vehicle glove box latch 100 may include one or more of a base housing and a lock cylinder. The base housing may be mounted to the front surface of the door 102 and remain fixed in place (i.e., stationary) during operation of the vehicle glove box latch 100. The lock cylinder (if provided) may be mounted to the base housing and aligned with the opening 136 in the lever 116. The lock cylinder is configured to lock or unlock the vehicle glove box. The lock cylinder is an optional component and may be omitted.

[0048] Furthermore, although not explicitly shown in the accompanying drawings, the vehicle glove box latch 100 may also include one or more dampers or elastomeric components formed of a soft material. These dampers may be located between the base housing and the paddle 116 to help mitigate noise during vehicle operation, such as BSR (buzzing, vibration, clicking) and conditions associated with vibration response. Additionally or optionally, the one or more dampers may be located between the base housing and the rearward-facing surface 164 of the paddle 116 to limit sound generated when the paddle 116 is moved.

[0049] The latch 100 may include one or more springs, such as a torsion spring (not shown) connected to the lever 116, for holding the lever 116 in its original position (discussed further below). A second torsion spring, such as torsion spring 150 ( Figure 9 It can be connected to rotor 118 to bias rotor 118 to a rotational position corresponding to the locked state of vehicle glove box latch 100 (i.e., where pawls 120 and 122 engage with the stop).

[0050] The individual components of the vehicle glove box latch 100 will now be described in more detail.

[0051] The vehicle glove box latch 100 typically includes a user-operated paddle 116, a rotor 118, and at least one pawl 120, 122. Specifically, as... Figure 1A-1B As can be seen, at least a portion of the vehicle glove box latch 100 includes a rotor 118 and two pawls 120 and 122, and protrudes from the rear surface 106 of the door 102. Pawls 120 and 122 each include an engagement portion configured to engage with corresponding openings 176a and 176b (or collectively referred to as opening 176) in a vehicle in which the vehicle glove box is installed. In the example, pawls 120 and 122 each include an engagement portion configured to releasably engage with a stop on the vehicle opening. When pawls 120 and 122 are engaged with the stop, the door 102 remains in a closed state or position. Specifically, when pawls 120 and 122 are in the locked position (… Figure 5B Pads 120 and 122 engage with stops, thereby maintaining door 102 in a closed or open position. More specifically, when pads 120 and 122 are in the locked position, the engagement between the engaging portions of the respective free ends 120a and 122a of pads 120 and 122 and their respective stops prevents door 102 from moving from the closed or open position to the open position. Conversely, when pads 120 and 122 are in the unlocked position (…),… Figure 5CPawls 120 and 122 are configured to move and disengage away from their respective stops, such that pawls 120 and 122 are fully disengaged from the stops and door 102 is not maintained in a closed state or position, or door 102 can be easily moved to an open state or position. In other words, engaging portions 120a and 122a do not engage with their respective stops, such that door 102 is not maintained in a closed state or position, or door 102 can be easily moved to an open state or position.

[0052] like Figure 6A-6L As shown, the connecting portions 120b and 122b of each pawl 120 and 122 are opposite to the free ends 120a and 122a of each pawl 120 and 122. Each connecting portion 120b and 122b defines a recess, such as recess 124a (…). Figure 6B ) and 124b Figure 4A ).like Figure 5A As shown, the recess 124a of the pawl 120 can be positioned relative to the pawl axis ( Figure 5D ) at an angle and relative to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The angled recess 120c opens. Similarly, the recess 124b of the pawl 122 can open relative to the pawl axis ( Figure 5D ) at an angle and relative to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The angled recess 122c is open. In a non-limiting example, the connecting portions 120b and 122b of each pawl 120 and 122 are positioned for connecting each pawl 120 and 122 to the rotor 118.

[0053] Specifically, connecting portions 120b and 122b define recesses 124a and 124b, which have a shape and size designed to receive one of the levers 126a and 126b (discussed further below) of the rotor 118, and the levers 126a and 126b resisting the rotor are respectively along the direction of the recess ( Figure 5A The connecting portions 120b and 122b are unexpectedly separated from the recesses 124a and 124b. In a non-limiting example, the connecting portions 120b and 122b include crescent-shaped recesses 124a and 124b (individually or collectively referred to as recess 124) defined on the periphery of each of the connecting portions 120b and 122b.

[0054] Specifically, each recess 124 is defined by a C-shaped clip with a discontinuous periphery. For example... Figure 6AAs shown, a discontinuous periphery defines an opening 128 through which latches 126a and 126b can be inserted or snapped into a C-shaped clip (according to a method of mates 126a with connecting portion 120b and 126b with connecting portion 122b). In other words, each of the recesses 124a and 124b is configured to be releasably coupled to one of the latches 126a and 126b defined by rotor 118, respectively. Latches 126a and 126b are capable of pivoting within the recess 124 during operation without disengaging from the recess 124.

[0055] To prevent the recesses 124 of the pawls 120 and 122 from accidentally separating or disengaging from the rotor 118, the dimensions of the corresponding openings 128 of the recesses 124 can be selected to be smaller than the dimensions or diameters of the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118. Thus, when an insertion force is applied, the deflection of the recesses 124 allows the pawls 126a and 126b to be received or inserted within the recesses 124, as indicated by the mounting direction 174. Figure 5B As indicated by ), the interference generated between the corresponding opening 128 of the recess 124 and the levers 126a and 126b respectively resists the accidental separation of the levers 126a and 126b from the recesses 124a and 124b, but allows the intended separation to be achieved by applying a separation force opposite to the insertion force 174 (e.g., for disassembly or repair).

[0056] although Figure 6A-6L A connecting portion 120b with a crescent-shaped recess 124a is shown (connecting portion 122b may have a substantially similar crescent-shaped recess 124b), but it will be understood from the description herein that connecting portions 120b and 122b may have any geometry that depends at least on the size and shape of latches 126a and 126b. Furthermore, the shapes of connecting portions 120b and 122b may be symmetrical or asymmetrical depending on design or functional requirements. For example, the shapes of connecting portions 120b and 122b may be selected to accommodate or adjust the mounting and retaining forces associated with the assembly of latch 100. In a non-limiting example, the shapes of connecting portions 120b and 122b may be similar to those shown (e.g., by increasing or decreasing the curved or angular portion of the crescent shape of the recess 124). Figure 6A-6LThe connecting portions 120b and 122b may also be designed with a shape and size such that one side of the crescent shape of the recess 124 does not provide retention, while the other side provides such retention. Furthermore, the C-shape of the recess 124 may include a limited contact arc (e.g., similar to an E-shaped clip) to change or control the amount and position of contact between the recess 124 and other components of the latch 100 (e.g., levers 126a and 126b). This limited or controlled contact arc may indicate a restricted area, which can be used to reduce contact effects and / or relieve stress during the assembly, installation, or operation of the latch 100.

[0057] As a non-limiting example, the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 may each have a circular surface positioned for contact with the rotor 118, thereby reducing the direct contact area between the pawls 120 and 122 and the rotor 118. Furthermore, the surfaces of the recesses 124 of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 are circular to reduce the direct contact area between the recesses 124 of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 and the chucks 126a and 126b of the rotor 118.

[0058] In addition, such as Figure 4C As best viewed from the center, the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 includes a gradually decreasing thickness, such that in the unlocked position of the pawl 120 ( Figure 5C The distance between the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the contact surface 160 of the retainer 132 (discussed below) of the rotor 118, compared to the distance in the locked position of the pawl 120 (…). Figure 5B The distance between the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the contact surface 160 of the retainer 132 is greater.

[0059] In the non-restrictive example, when comparing Figure 3C and Figure 4C The gradually decreasing thickness of the pawl 120 can be seen in the view. These two figures show the distance between the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the contact surface 160 of the retainer 132 of the rotor 118, respectively, when the latch 100 is in the locked state. Figure 3C When the latch 100 is in the unlocked and maximum pawl travel state, the distance in the orientation of the pawl 120 is greater than when the latch 100 is in the unlocked and maximum pawl travel state. Figure 4C When the pawl 120 is in another orientation, the distance between the contact surface 160 of the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the retainer 132 of the rotor 118 is smaller. The gradually decreasing thickness of the connecting portion 120b can be indicated by the raised surface extending from the outer surface of a portion of the connecting portion 120b.

[0060] In another example, the gradually decreasing thickness of the pawl 120 is indicated by a ramp 178 extending from the surface of the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120. (See example...) Figure 6B As shown, slopes can have a curved shape. Furthermore, as... Figure 6G As shown, the ramp 178 can extend from the relatively thicker portion 180a of the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 to the relatively thinner portion 180b of the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120. This taper ( Figure 6G The taper can be varied to allow for larger or smaller clearances as specified by the design and function. For example, the gradually decreasing thickness of the pawl 120 can be configured to operate at any point along the travel, such as the point defined by the ramp 178. Additionally or optionally, the taper ( Figure 6G The region can be configured to establish close contact between the recess 124 and the corresponding latches 126a and 126b by generating controlled resistance and causing deceleration of movement during operation of the latch 100.

[0061] Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood from the description herein that the gradually decreasing thickness of pawl 122 may be substantially similar in shape, size, design, and function, as described above for pawl 120.

[0062] The movement of the vehicle glove box latch 100 between the locked state, the unlocked state, and the unlocked and maximum pawl travel states will be discussed further below.

[0063] Specifically, the gradually decreasing thickness of pawls 120 and 122 is designed to mitigate noise generation caused or determined by the relative movement of the components of latch 100 in relation to the vehicle (e.g., moving the vehicle) under certain conditions, or to mitigate any noise generation caused by the high-frequency usage cycles of the vehicle glove box (e.g., repetitive movement between opening and closing the vehicle glove box via unlocking and locking the vehicle glove box latch 100). For example, the gradually decreasing thickness of pawls 120 and 122 allows for the creation of areas where the relative movement of the components of latch 100 toward or within these areas is minimal, thus limiting the generation of contact noise caused by vibration. As described above, this feature also allows for a close contact arrangement in one or more specific areas or portions, thereby eliminating all relative movement at that area (and, if desired, the area can be located at any point or multiple points along the movement, or located throughout the movement). Additionally or alternatively, such close contact in one or more specific areas or portions can be configured to suppress movement and potentially slow down the response and movement of pawls 120 and 122 between locked or unlocked positions or states.

[0064] like Figure 7A-7LAs best viewed from the center, rotor 118 has a generally circular geometry and includes pawls 126a and 126b, each pawl 126a and 126b being connected to the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122, respectively. Pawls 126a and 126b of rotor 118 are located along the rotor axis (…). Figure 7H The pawls extend in the direction of the rotor 118 and enter the recess 124 defined by the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122. In a non-limiting example, each of the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118 is along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H A stud extending in the direction of ). In particular, each of the levers 126a and 126b can be a cylindrical stud.

[0065] Rotor 118 includes a plurality of deflectors, such as one or more of deflectors 126a and 126b, each deflector being along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The rotor 118 extends in the direction of the pawls and enters a recess 124 defined by a connecting portion (such as connecting portions 120b and 122b) of a corresponding one of a plurality of pawls (such as pawls 120 and 122). Furthermore, the rotor 118 may also have a plurality of retainers, such as retainers 132a and 132b, each spaced apart from a corresponding one of a plurality of pawls 126a and 126. Each of the plurality of retainers 132a and 132b extends transversely to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H Extend in the direction of ).

[0066] Reference Figures 5A-5D The chuck 126a of rotor 118 is mounted in the recess 124a of pawl 120. The chuck 126b of rotor 118 is mounted in the recess 124b of pawl 122. As will be discussed below, the chucks 126a and 126b can be mounted along the corresponding recess directions 120c and 122c. Figure 5A ) are inserted into their respective recesses 124. The matching orientation of the levers 126a and 126b in their respective recesses 124 prevents the levers 126a and 126b from moving along the recess direction ( Figure 5A It accidentally detached from its recess 124.

[0067] Rotor 118 is capable of rotating around the rotor axis between the locked position and the unlocked position. Figure 7H Move. In the locked position ( Figure 5B The pawl 126a of rotor 118 is oriented to the left relative to the pawl 126b of rotor 118. When pawls 120 and 122 are along their respective directions 120d and 122d along the pawl axis ( Figure 5D During operation, rotor 118 moves toward the unlocked position. In the unlocked position ( Figure 5CThe deflector 126b of rotor 118 is oriented to the right relative to the deflector 126b of rotor 118.

[0068] Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that the pawl 126a of rotor 118 can be substantially the same as the pawl 126b of rotor 118. Optionally, the size and shape of pawl 126a can differ from those of pawl 126b, as specified at least by the design of pawls 120 and 122. It should be understood that the connection between pawls 120 and 122 and rotor 118 can be of any type (fixed or releasable) and is not limited to the connection shown. For example, the orientation of the mounting or connection between pawls 120 and 122 and rotor 118 can be different from the mounting orientation 174. Figure 5B This can be achieved by changing the position of the respective opening 128 or recess 124, each defined by the connecting portions 120b and 122b.

[0069] Rotor 118 is also defined as being spaced apart from brakes 126a and 126b and transverse to the rotor axis. Figure 7H Corresponding retainers 132a and 132b (collectively referred to as retainers 132) extending in the direction of the rotor 118. Specifically, retainers 132 of the rotor 118 are positioned to restrict movement of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122. Specifically, retainer 132a of the rotor 118 is positioned to restrict movement of the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120, while retainer 132b of the rotor 118 is positioned to restrict movement of the connecting portion 122b of the pawl 122.

[0070] like Figure 7G and Figure 7L As best viewed, the retainer 132 of rotor 118 is positioned to restrict movement along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The movement in the direction of ) and resists the movement of the connecting parts 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis of the rotor 118 by the pawls 126a and 126b respectively. Figure 7H Unexpected separation in the direction of the rotor 118. In a non-limiting example, the retainer 132 of the rotor 118 is positioned to restrict the movement of the connecting portions 120b and 122b via flanges or lips 162, each flange or lip being defined by retainers 132a and 132b. The lip 162 is configured to extend transversely to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H Extending in the direction of ) thus limiting the extension along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H Movement in the direction of ). The lip 162 is also configured to resist accidental separation of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 from the levers 126a and 126b, respectively.

[0071] Additionally or optionally, the retainer 132 includes a contact surface 160 positioned to approach or contact the engagement portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122. In the example, when the rotor 118 is in the locked position of the rotor 118 and the unlocked position of the rotor 118 around the rotor axis ( Figure 7H During operation, the contact surface 160 of each of the retainers 132a and 132b is movable relative to the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the connecting portion 122b of the pawl 122. The contact surface 160 may be configured to restrict the connecting portions 120b and 122b along the rotor axis. Figure 7H The contact surfaces 160 may define protrusions that are configured to approach, contact, or extend closer to a portion of the connecting portions 120b and 122b, respectively, and to resist unintended separation of the connecting portions 120b and 122b from the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118, respectively. In a non-limiting example, the contact surfaces 160 may define protrusions that are configured to approach, contact, or extend closer to a portion of the connecting portions 120b and 122b.

[0072] Various prior art latch designs include pawls or struts on one or more pawls, which are coupled to a recess defined by the rotor (i.e., the opposite arrangement of pawls and recesses in the vehicle glove box latch 100). Positioning pawls 126a and 126b on the rotor 118 and positioning recess 124 on pawls 120 and 122 to receive pawls 126a and 126b provides the ability to mitigate BSR (buzzing, vibrating, clicking) effects, which are caused by relative movement of components mounted under certain conditions or improper attachment of mounted components, including those associated with the glove box latch for a vehicle. For consumer satisfaction with the product, mitigation or reduction of BSR effects is desirable. This arrangement also provides ease of assembly for the vehicle glove box latch 100, which will be discussed further below. Furthermore, the arrangement of pawls and recesses in the latch 100 provides the benefit of avoiding conditions that could over-constrain the latch assembly, as the arrangement allows the pawl axis to deflect relative to the rotor axis to a limited extent.

[0073] Figure 8A-8GAn exemplary actuator (such as a paddle 116) for a vehicle glove box latch 100 is depicted. The paddle 116 includes a generally rectangular front surface 134 in the form of a wall. An opening 136 for receiving an optional lock cylinder may be defined in the surface 134. The end 138 of the front surface 134 furthest from a slot 140 is configured for gripping by a user of the vehicle glove box latch 100. Opposing sidewalls 142 and 144 project downward from the front surface 134. The sidewall 142 includes one of two slots 140 and a circular leg 146 extending downward from the wall 142 adjacent to the slot 140. The circular leg 146 is configured to rotate a rotor 118. One of two supports 148 extends inwardly from the bottom edge of the sidewall 142 toward the sidewall 140. The sidewall 144 includes the other of the two slots 140. The other of the two supports 148 extends inwardly from the bottom edge of the sidewall 144 toward the sidewall 142. Each support 148 can be positioned within the housing in the form of an assembly of the vehicle glove box latch 100.

[0074] Figure 9 An exemplary torsion spring 150 is depicted for a vehicle glove box latch 100. The torsion spring 150 is connected to a rotor 118 for biasing the rotor 118 to a rotational position corresponding to the locked state of the vehicle glove box latch 100 (i.e., where pawls 120 and 122 are engaged with a stop).

[0075] The torsion spring 150 includes a coiled body 152 having two free ends 154 and 156. The free ends 154 and 156 extend in opposite directions along separate axes, each parallel to the central axis of the coiled body 152. In a non-limiting example, the vehicle glove box latch 100 is assembled in the form of the coiled body 152 of the spring 150, which is mounted in an annular recess formed on the front side of the rotor 118.

[0076] Now refer to Figures 3A-3E 4A-4E and Figures 5A-5D The movement of latch 100 from locked state, unlocked state and maximum pawl travel state is disclosed.

[0077] In the locked state of latch 100 ( Figures 3A-3E and Figure 5B The vehicle glove box door 102 is in the closed position. As described above, a torsion spring 150 can be connected to the rotor 118 to bias the rotor 118 to a rotational position corresponding to the locked state of the vehicle glove box latch 100 (i.e., where pawls 120 and 122 engage with the stop). Due to the engagement between the connecting portions 120b and 122b with recesses 124 and the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118, the torsion spring 150 prevents the rotor 118 from rotating counterclockwise (e.g., ...). Figure 5C Rotate in the direction of 168).

[0078] In particular, such as Figures 3A-3C As shown, pavers 126a and 126b are received by corresponding recesses 124 in the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pavers 120 and 122. The shape of the recesses 124 at least resists the pavers 126a and 126b along the recess direction. Figure 5A Unexpected separation from the corresponding recess 124 allows the connecting portions 120b and 122b to secure at least the catches 126a and 126b, respectively.

[0079] Additionally or optionally, retainer 132 is spaced apart from one of pawls 126a and 126b and is positioned to restrict the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis. Figure 7H The movement in the direction of the pawls 120 and 122 resists the movement of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 respectively along the rotor axis of the rotor 118 with one of the pawls 126a and 126b. Figure 7H The direction of the separation was unexpected.

[0080] Now go to Figure 5C and Figure 8A-8G The latch 100 is moved to the unlocked state by an actuating actuator (such as a lever 116). In a non-limiting example, the user rotates the lever 116 against a biasing operation of a biasing device, such as a cantilever spring (not shown) attached to the lever 116. Contact between the rotor 118 and the cantilever spring allows the rotor 118 to remain in the locked position. Alternatively, the user rotates the lever 116 in an outward direction against a biasing operation of a biasing device (such as a torsion spring (not shown)) attached to the lever 116 to hold the lever 116 in its original position. In the original position of the lever 116, the rearward-facing surface 164 of the lever 116 faces (and is parallel to) the front surface of the door 102.

[0081] When the user rotates the paddle 116 against the biasing action of the spring, the slot 140 slides on the corresponding rib of the housing (not shown), causing the circular leg 146 of the paddle 116 to rest on the support surface of the rotor 118 (not shown), thereby pushing the rotor 118 to rotate counterclockwise. Figure 5C As indicated by arrow 168. Because the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 are spaced sufficiently apart from the retainer 132, the rotor 118 rotates freely counterclockwise against the bias of the spring 150. In other words, the retainer 132 is not in a position that restricts the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis (…). Figure 7HThe retainer 132 is positioned to allow movement in the direction of the pawls 120 and 122. However, the retainer 132 is held in a position that allows the retainer 132 to resist the movement of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis of the rotor 118, respectively, with one of the pawls 126a and 126b. Figure 7H The unexpected separation of the direction.

[0082] Now go to Figures 4A-4E The diagram shows details of the unlocked state of latch 100 and the maximum pawl travel state. This state is related to the fact that pawls 120 and 122 are configured to shift at their respective maximum distances. Figure 5C The unlocked states are essentially similar. Specifically, pawls 120 and 122 are configured to shift through a minimum distance at which the retainer 132 is not in the position restricting the connecting portions 120b and 122b of pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis. Figure 7H The position of the directional movement of the pawls 120 and 122. The gradually decreasing thickness of the pawls allows for this maximum pawl travel without increasing the further stress associated with the relative movement of the components of the vehicle glove box latch 100. This reduction in stress due to the relative movement of the components of the latch 100 or the relative movement of the components adapting to the latch allows the latch 100 to withstand high frequencies and repeated use, for example, by opening and closing the vehicle glove box by unlocking and locking the vehicle glove box latch 100.

[0083] Additionally or optionally, pawls 120 and 122 are configured to displace beyond a minimum distance to allow for more efficient assembly of the latch 100 (exemplary assembly methods will be discussed further below). The interior or lining of the door 102 can be moved into place such that pawls 120 and 122 are configured to press inwards sufficiently to install the interior; that is, pawls 120 and 122 can move inside the door interior. Furthermore, pawls 120 and 122 are configured to displace beyond a minimum distance such that user operation of the latch 100 via the lever 116 will not subsequently move pawls 120 and 122, causing pawls 120 and 122 to be held or blocked by the door 102.

[0084] In another embodiment of the invention, a vehicle glove box including a vehicle glove box latch 100 is disclosed. The components of latch 100 are the same as those described above. Furthermore, latch 100 may include a plurality of pawls, such as a plurality of pawls including one or more of pawls 120 and 122. A door, such as door 102, an actuator, such as paddle 116, and a rotor, such as rotor 118, may also be coupled to the door. Rotor 118 may include a plurality of levers, such as one or more of levers 126a and 126b. Each of the plurality of levers 126a and 126b may be coupled along the rotor axis (…). Figure 7HThe rotor 118 may extend in the direction of the pawls and enter into the corresponding recess 124, as defined by the connecting portions 120b and 122b of a corresponding pawl among the plurality of pawls 120 and 122. The rotor 118 may also include a plurality of retainers 132a and 132b, each spaced apart from a corresponding retainer among the plurality of retainers 126a and 126b. The plurality of retainers 132a and 132b may extend transversely to the rotor axis (…). Figure 7H Extend in the direction of ).

[0085] As described elsewhere, the latches according to various aspects of the invention are not limited to paddle-operated systems. For example, designs for connecting the rotor 118 can be used independently of actuators including paddle aspects (such as paddle 116). Thus, the connections according to the invention can be used in any coupling system (e.g., a system including a rotor, spring, housing (base), and pawls) where operation is achieved through more direct movement of pawls (such as pawls 120 and 122). This can be accomplished, for example, by pushing pawls 120 and 122, pulling pawls 120 and 122, or by some other mechanism that operates pawls 120 and 122 instead of the rotor 118.

[0086] Now referring to the method of assembling a vehicle latch assembly, method 200 is described below with reference to the components of the vehicle glove box latch 100. Method 200 is desirable for easily assembling various components of the latch assembly (such as the vehicle glove box latch 100).

[0087] like Figure 10 As shown, step 202 of method 200 includes orienting pawls 120 and 122 relative to rotor 118 such that pawls 120 and 122 are oriented along a path relative to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H ) Angled pawl axis ( Figure 5D Movement. Specifically, one end of the opposing ends of pawls 120 and 122 includes engaging portions, such as free ends 120a and 122a, configured to engage with corresponding openings 176a and 176b (or collectively referred to as opening 176) in a vehicle glove box in which it is installed, and the other end of the opposing ends of pawls 120 and 122 includes connecting portions, such as connecting portions 120b and 122b, each positioned for connecting pawls 120 and 122 to rotor 118, respectively. In a non-limiting example, such as Figure 1A-1B and Figure 2A-2B As shown, the pawl 120 is positioned through the hole 112 of the protrusion 108 on the door 102, and the pawl 122 is positioned through the hole 114 of the door 110.

[0088] In step 204, the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 are oriented using recesses (such as recesses 124a and 124b) configured to be oriented relative to the pawl axis. Figure 5D ) at an angle and relative to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H ) angled recess direction ( Figure 5A )Open.

[0089] In step 206, the retainers of rotor 118, such as retainers 132a and 132b, are positioned transversely to the rotor axis. Figure 7H Extend in the direction of ).

[0090] In step 208, one or both of the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118 are received in a recess 124 defined by the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122. Step 208 also includes resisting the pawls 126a or 126b of the rotor 118 along the direction of the recess. Figure 5A The rotor 118's pawls 126a and 126b are accidentally separated from the recess 124. In the example, the pawls 126a and 126b of the rotor 118 are positioned in the recesses 124a and 124b, respectively. The recesses 124a and 124b are defined by the connecting portion 120b of the pawl 120 and the connecting portion 122b of the pawl 122, respectively. As described above, the pawls 126a and 126b can be separated along the direction of the recess ( Figure 5A The latches 126a and 126b are positioned or inserted into their respective recesses 124. The matching orientation of the latches 126a and 126b in their respective recesses 124 prevents the latches 126a and 126b from being positioned along the recess direction ( Figure 5A They accidentally detached from their recesses 124.

[0091] In step 210, the retainer 132 of the rotor 118 is positioned to restrict the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis. Figure 7H Movement in the direction of ) and resisting the movement of the connecting portions 120b and 122b of the pawls 120 and 122 along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The direction of the pawls 120 and 122 is accidentally separated from the pawls 126a or 126b of the rotor 118, thereby preventing the pawls 120 and 122 from moving along the rotor axis ( Figure 7H The directions of the recesses 120c and 122c are unexpectedly separated from the rotor 118, each recess direction relative to the rotor axis ( Figure 7H ( ) at an angle.

[0092] Additionally or optionally, method 200 further includes the step of mounting an actuator (such as paddle 116) for movement relative to the vehicle glove box. Rotor 118 may be further coupled to paddle 116, and rotor 118 may be mounted for movement relative to the vehicle glove box around a rotor axis. Figure 7H ) rotation.

[0093] Method 200 may also include positioning at least one pawl, such as pawls 120 and 122, to interact with a stop for holding the latch assembly in a closed or locked state.

[0094] Method 200 may further include the step of orienting a plurality of pawls relative to rotor 118, the plurality of pawls including one or more of pawls 120 and 122, such that the plurality of pawls including one or more of pawls 120 and 122 can be oriented relative to rotor axis ( Figure 7H The pawls move at an angle to the axis of the pawl. In a non-limiting example, a plurality of pawls, including one or more of pawls 120 and 122, are capable of moving along axes parallel to the pawl directions 120d and 122d, respectively. Figure 5D The pawl axis moves.

[0095] It should be understood that the above description of method 200, such as the method of assembling the vehicle glove box latch 100, is not limited to any steps or sequence of steps, and may differ from the description without departing from the scope and concept of the invention.

[0096] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that such embodiments have been provided by way of example only. Many variations, modifications, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the latch described herein can be used in any compartment and is not limited to a vehicle glove box. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A vehicle glove box latch for a vehicle glove box, the vehicle glove box latch comprising: An actuator is configured to be mounted for movement relative to the vehicle glove box; A rotor, coupled to the actuator and configured to be mounted for rotation about a rotor axis relative to the vehicle glove box; as well as A pawl, coupled to the rotor and having opposing ends, the pawl being movable along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis, one end of the opposing ends of the pawl including an engagement portion configured to engage with an opening in a vehicle, in which a vehicle glove box is mounted, and the other end of the opposing ends of the pawl including a connecting portion positioned for coupling the pawl to the rotor; The connecting portion of the pawl defines a recess that opens in the recess direction, the recess direction being angled relative to the pawl axis and also angled relative to the rotor axis. as well as The rotor has a stopper that extends along the direction of the rotor axis and enters into the recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl, and the rotor also has a retainer spaced apart from the stopper and extending in a direction transverse to the rotor axis; The recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl is shaped to receive the rotor's catch and resist accidental separation of the rotor's catch from the recess along the recess direction; and The rotor retainer is positioned to restrict the movement of the pawl's connecting portion along the rotor axis and to prevent the pawl's connecting portion from accidentally separating from the rotor's catch along the rotor axis.

2. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 1, wherein, The rotor's lever is a column extending along the rotor's axis.

3. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 2, wherein, The rotor's support column is a cylindrical support column.

4. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 1, wherein, The rotor retainer includes a lip extending in a direction transverse to the rotor axis.

5. The vehicle glove box latch according to claim 4, wherein, The retainer includes a contact surface positioned to approach or contact the engagement portion of the pawl.

6. The vehicle glove box latch according to claim 1, wherein the pawl is movable along the pawl axis between a locked position and an unlocked position.

7. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 6, wherein the connecting portion of the pawl has a gradually decreasing thickness, such that the distance between the connecting portion of the pawl and the contact surface of the retainer in the unlocked position of the pawl is greater than the distance between the connecting portion of the pawl and the contact surface of the retainer in the locked position of the pawl.

8. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 7, wherein the rotor is movable about the rotor axis between a locked position and an unlocked position.

9. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 8, wherein when the rotor moves about the rotor axis between the locked position and the unlocked position, the contact surface of the retainer of the rotor moves relative to the engagement portion of the pawl.

10. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 1, wherein the connecting portion of the pawl has a circular surface positioned for contact with the rotor, thereby reducing the direct contact area between the pawl and the rotor.

11. The vehicle glove box latch according to claim 10, wherein the surface of the recess of the pawl's connecting portion is circular to reduce the direct contact area between the recess of the pawl's connecting portion and the rotor's catch.

12. The vehicle glove box latch according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of pawls.

13. The vehicle glove box latch of claim 12, wherein the rotor has a plurality of latches extending along the direction of the rotor axis and entering into a recess defined by a connecting portion of a respective of the plurality of pawls, and the rotor further has a plurality of retainers spaced apart from a respective of the plurality of latches and extending in a direction transverse to the rotor axis.

14. A vehicle glove box, comprising the vehicle glove box latch according to claim 1.

15. The vehicle glove box of claim 14, further comprising a user-actuated paddle for providing the actuator, and a door thereto which the paddle and the rotor are coupled.

16. A method for assembling a vehicle latch assembly, the method comprising: A rotor-oriented pawl, capable of moving along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis, has one end of its opposing ends comprising an engagement portion configured to engage with an opening in the vehicle. The vehicle glove box according to claim 14 or 15 is installed in the vehicle, wherein the other end of the opposite ends of the pawl includes a coupling portion positioned for coupling the pawl to the rotor; The connecting portion of the pawl is oriented using a recess, which opens along the recess direction and is angled relative to the pawl axis and also angled relative to the rotor axis. The retainer of the rotor extends in a direction transverse to the rotor axis; The rotor's chuck is received in the recess defined by the connecting portion of the pawl, and the rotor's chuck is prevented from accidentally separating from the recess along the direction of the recess; The rotor retainer is positioned to restrict movement of the pawl's connecting portion along the rotor axis and to prevent accidental separation of the pawl's connecting portion from the rotor's catch along the rotor axis. This prevents the pawl from accidentally separating from the rotor in the direction along the rotor axis and in the direction of the recess that is angled relative to the rotor axis.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising installing a user-operated paddle for movement relative to the vehicle glove box.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising coupling the rotor to the paddle and mounting the rotor for rotation about the rotor axis relative to the vehicle glove box.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising positioning the pawl to interact with the stop to maintain the latch assembly in a closed state.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising orienting a plurality of pawls relative to the rotor such that the pawls are movable along a pawl axis angled relative to the rotor axis.

Images