Door and door system for door

Abstract

The invention relates to a door and a door system for a door. The door includes: a closure latch assembly including a power release motor; a base controller electrically coupled to the power release motor; an auxiliary controller electrically coupled to the power release motor; the basic controller is configured to control the power release motor in a normal operation mode of closing the latch assembly; and the auxiliary controller is configured to control the power release motor in an emergency mode in which the latch assembly is closed.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application filed on March 7, 2022, with application number 202210224839.8, and invention name “Closing latch assembly and electronic control system for closing latch assembly”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 158,315 filed on March 8, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 192,372 filed on May 24, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 226,254 filed on July 28, 2021. The entire disclosures of the above applications are considered part of the disclosure of this application and are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to doors having closure latch assemblies and door systems for doors, and also to such power-operated closure latch assemblies used in closure systems for releasably latching a closure panel to a body portion of a motor vehicle. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a closure latch assembly having a standardized actuator module that can be attached to a plurality of different latch modules and configured to include a latch ECU / actuator assembly and a latch ECU cover; and to an electronic control system for the closure latch assembly. Background Art

[0005] This section provides background information that is not necessarily prior art to the inventive concepts embodied in the present disclosure.

[0006] Driven by consumer demand for advanced comfort and convenience features, the continued growth of technology has led to more electronic devices being integrated into modern motor vehicles. For this reason, electronic controllers and electronic control devices are now used to control various functions in vehicles. For example, many modern vehicles are now equipped with passive (i.e., "keyless") entry systems to allow locking / unlocking and releasing closed panels (i.e., doors, tailgates, liftgates, trunk lids, etc.) without using traditional key-type entry systems. In this regard, some popular features currently available for such passive entry systems include power locking / unlocking, power train pulling (cinch) and power release. Therefore, the "power" function is provided by a closed latch assembly mounted to the closed panel, which is equipped with a latch mechanism of a ratchet / pawl type that is selectively actuated by the actuation of at least one electric actuator.

[0007] The movement of the closing panel from the open position to the closed position causes a striker (mounted to a structural portion of the vehicle) to engage a ratchet and forcibly rotate the ratchet from a striker release position toward a striker capture position, which is opposite to the biasing force normally applied to the ratchet via a ratchet biasing member. Once the ratchet is in its striker capture position, the pawl moves to a ratchet holding position due to the urging of the pawl biasing member, in which the pawl mechanically engages the ratchet and holds the ratchet in its striker capture position, thereby locking the latch mechanism and holding the closing panel in its closed position. A latch release mechanism is typically associated with the latch mechanism and is used to move the pawl from its ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position in which the pawl is disengaged from the ratchet. When the pawl is moved to its ratchet release position, the ratchet biasing member drives the ratchet back to its striker release position, thereby releasing the latch mechanism and allowing the closing panel to move to its open position.

[0008] The functions of the closed latch assembly during normal operation and emergency situations are typically controlled locally by a latch control unit, which may also be powered by a backup energy source if the primary vehicle power source is unavailable (e.g., during a crash). However, local operation of the closed latch assembly may be undesirable in a vehicle electrical system where other vehicle control modules are instead responsible for coordinating latch operation during normal operation. As a result, various difficulties exist in coordinating the operation of the closed latch assembly during normal operation while still providing powered operation during an emergency situation.

[0009] In view of the foregoing, while current powered closing latch assemblies are adequate to meet all regulatory requirements and provide consumer expectations for enhanced comfort and convenience, a need remains for alternative powered closing latch assemblies that are intended to advance the technology and provide solutions and overcome at least some of the known shortcomings associated with conventional arrangements. Summary of the invention

[0010] This section provides a general summary of various aspects, features, and structural embodiments provided by or associated with the inventive concepts disclosed below according to the present disclosure, and is not intended to be a comprehensive summary and / or to limit the interpretation and scope of protection provided by the claims.

[0011] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a closure latch assembly having a powered actuator operable to actuate a latch mechanism of the closure latch assembly to provide a "power" function, and an ECU that controls actuation of the powered actuator.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a closed latch assembly is provided, comprising a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet is movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position. The pawl is movable between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, wherein the ratchet is held in the striker capture position and the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position at the ratchet release position. A power actuator is operably coupled to a transmission system, the transmission system comprising a first driven gear and a second driven gear. The second driven gear has an actuating feature fixed thereto. A latch release mechanism operably couples the actuating feature to the pawl. The latch release mechanism has an idle connection with the actuating feature, wherein rotation of the gear train powered by the power actuator causes the actuating feature to move in an idle connection with the latch release mechanism before the latch release mechanism causes the pawl to move from the ratchet holding position toward the ratchet release position.

[0013] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a closure latch assembly latch release mechanism may include a linkage arm operably coupling the pawl to the second driven gear.

[0014] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a lost motion connection may be formed between the actuation feature and the linkage arm.

[0015] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a linkage arm may be provided having a slot extending between a first drive end and a second drive end, and an actuation feature may be disposed in the slot for sliding translation between the first drive end and the second drive end.

[0016] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a first driven gear is provided, the first driven gear having a driven pinion fixed thereto. The driven pinion meshes with a second driven gear.

[0017] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the power actuator has a motor shaft, and a driving gear is fixed to the motor shaft. The driving gear meshes with the first driven gear.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the driving gear and the first driven gear have a first gear ratio, the driven pinion and the second driven gear have a second gear ratio, and the worm gear and the second driven gear have a third gear ratio, wherein the second gear ratio is greater than the first gear ratio, and the third gear ratio is greater than the second gear ratio.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the motor shaft extends along a first axis, the first driven gear rotates about a second axis, and the second driven gear rotates about a third axis, and the first axis extends transversely relative to the second axis and the third axis, thereby allowing the housing of the closing latch assembly to have a minimal width and reduced size.

[0020] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the closure latch assembly further includes a release cable configured for manual actuation and operably coupled to the pawl to move the pawl from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet releasing position.

[0021] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a system for controlling a power release motor of a closed latch assembly. The closed latch assembly is capable of operating in one of a normal operating mode and an emergency mode. The system includes a primary controller located outside the closed latch assembly. The primary controller is configured to provide a primary control signal to the power release motor in response to receiving a door open signal during the normal operating mode. The system also includes an auxiliary controller located inside the closed latch assembly. The auxiliary controller is configured to provide an auxiliary control signal to the power release motor in response to receiving a door open signal during the emergency mode. The auxiliary controller is also configured not to provide an auxiliary control signal to the power release motor during the normal operating mode.

[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a closure latch assembly capable of operating in one of a normal operating mode and an emergency mode. The closure latch assembly includes a power release motor configured to operate during the normal operating mode of the closure latch assembly using a primary control signal received from a primary controller external to the closure latch assembly. In addition, the power release motor is configured to operate during the emergency operating mode of the closure latch assembly using an auxiliary control signal received from an auxiliary controller internal to the closure latch assembly. The power release motor is configured to operate without using the auxiliary control signal received from the auxiliary controller during the normal operating mode.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a latch controller for a closed latch assembly having a power release motor. The latch controller is configured not to control the power release motor during a normal operating mode of the closed latch assembly. The latch controller is also configured to control the power release motor during an emergency operating mode of the closed latch assembly.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a door including a closed latch assembly having a power release motor. The door also includes a door node controller electrically coupled to the power release motor. In addition, the door includes a latch controller electrically coupled to the power release motor. The door node controller is configured to control the power release motor in a normal operating mode of the closed latch assembly. The latch controller is configured to control the power release motor in an emergency mode of the closed latch assembly.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a closed latch assembly includes: supporting a ratchet in a housing for movement between a striker capture position and a striker release position; supporting a pawl in the housing for movement between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, wherein the ratchet is in a striker capture position and the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position and the pawl is biased toward the striker release position; coupling an actuating feature to the pawl using a latch release mechanism, and configuring the actuating feature to have an idle connection with the latch release mechanism; and operably coupling a power actuator to the actuating feature using a gear train, wherein the gear train provides torque multiplication between a driving gear fixed to a motor shaft of the power actuator and a driven gear of the gear train.

[0026] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closing latch assembly may include providing a gear train having a first driven gear meshing with a driving gear, a driven pinion fixed to the first driven gear, a second driven gear meshing with the driven pinion; and fixing an actuating feature to the second driven gear.

[0027] According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closed latch assembly may include providing a latch release mechanism comprising a linkage arm having a slot extending between a first drive end and a second drive end, and providing an actuating feature comprising a drive pin, the actuating feature being configured for sliding movement between the first drive end and the second drive end.

[0028] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closing latch assembly may include configuring a drive pin to move from a second drive end toward a first drive end when energized by a power actuator, and causing a pawl to begin moving from a ratchet holding position toward a ratchet release position when the drive pin engages the first drive end.

[0029] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closure latch assembly may include configuring a release mechanism for manually actuating a release cable to open a vehicle closure panel from inside and / or outside a motor vehicle.

[0030] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closure latch assembly can include configuring a release cable to be actuated by an external lock cylinder.

[0031] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closure latch assembly can include configuring a reset device for manual actuation to engage an actuation feature and operably move a pawl from a ratchet release position to a ratchet retaining position.

[0032] According to yet another aspect, a method of manufacturing a closure latch assembly can include providing a reset device having an actuation feature configured to be accessible for manual actuation on a closing face of a closure panel of a motor vehicle.

[0033] According to another aspect, a method of operating a latch mechanism of a closure latch assembly is disclosed. The method includes: selectively energizing a power actuator to rotate a driving gear; driving a gear train with the driving gear; driving an actuation feature in response to the driven gear train; and moving a pawl from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet releasing position through a lost motion connection with the actuation feature to allow the ratchet to move from a striker holding position to a striker releasing position.

[0034] According to another aspect, the method of operating a latch mechanism of a closure latch assembly may further include driving a first driven gear of a gear train with a driving gear and driving a second driven gear of the gear train with a driven pinion, and causing the actuation feature to be driven in conjunction with the second driven gear.

[0035] According to another aspect, a method of operating a latch mechanism of a closing latch assembly may further include providing torque multiplication between a driving gear and a first driven gear by providing a first gear ratio for the driving gear and a first driven gear, providing a second gear ratio for the driven pinion and the second driven gear, and providing a third gear ratio for the driving gear and the second driven gear, wherein the second gear ratio is greater than the first gear ratio, and the third gear ratio is greater than the second gear ratio.

[0036] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a closing latch assembly including a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet is movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position. The pawl is movable between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, wherein the ratchet is held in the striker capture position and the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position at the ratchet release position. The closing latch assembly also includes a power actuator operably coupled to a drive train. The drive train includes at least three stages. Each stage has an input and an output for driving the input of the next stage. The input of the first stage is driven by the power actuator, and the output of the last stage is coupled to the pawl to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0037] According to another aspect, each stage receives force at its input and adds force at its output.

[0038] According to another aspect, each stage has a pivot axis and the input and output are configured to rotate about the pivot axis.

[0039] According to another aspect, the pivot of each stage is a different pivot.

[0040] According to another aspect, at least one of the stages is disposed between pairs of compound gears.

[0041] According to another aspect, a first stage is disposed between a worm driven by a powered actuator and a worm thread of one of the compound gears.

[0042] According to another aspect, the last stage is configured as a crank mechanism.

[0043] According to another aspect, the crank mechanism provides variable force amplification between its input and output.

[0044] According to another aspect, the input to the crank mechanism is an actuation feature connected to one of the compound gears and a connecting rod connected between the actuation feature and the pawl.

[0045] According to another aspect, the actuation feature is a pin configured to slide within a lost motion slot provided in the connecting rod.

[0046] According to another aspect, at least one of the stages has a variable force amplification.

[0047] According to another aspect, each stage is configured to reduce the speed of its input to a lower speed at its output.

[0048] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a closing latch assembly including a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet is movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position. The pawl is movable between a ratchet holding position, in which the ratchet is held in the striker capture position, and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position. The closing latch assembly also includes a power actuator operably coupled to a multi-stage drive train. One of the stages of the drive train is a variable force amplification stage coupled to the pawl to move the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position.

[0049] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a door system for a door. The door system includes a closing latch assembly and a door node for controlling the closing latch assembly. The door system also includes a first door release switch circuit electrically connected to the closing latch assembly. In addition, the door system includes a second door release switch circuit electrically connected to the door node. Current flowing in the first door release switch circuit does not flow in the second door release switch circuit.

[0050] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a door system including a closing latch assembly having a backup energy source for use in an emergency situation. The door system also includes a door node electrically coupled to the closing latch assembly for controlling the closing latch assembly in normal conditions. The door node and the closing latch assembly are electrically isolated to prevent current from flowing from the backup energy source to the door node during an emergency situation.

[0051] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a door system for a door, the door system including a closing latch assembly for selectively fastening the door and including a latch controller and having a backup energy source for use in an emergency situation. The door system also includes a door node electrically coupled to the closing latch assembly and having a door node controller, the door node controller being configured to control the closing latch assembly in both normal conditions and emergency conditions. The closing latch assembly is powered by a primary power source in normal conditions and is configured to provide power to the door node from the backup energy source in an emergency situation.

[0052] According to another aspect, the door system further includes a tie-tie actuator coupled to the supercapacitor discharge switch of the door node for tying the door closed. The door node controller is further configured to control the supercapacitor discharge switch to regulate power from the backup energy source to the tie-tie actuator. The door node controller is further configured to control the tie-tie actuator using power from the backup energy source during an emergency condition.

[0053] According to another aspect, a closing latch assembly is provided, comprising: a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet being movable between a striker pin capture position and a striker pin release position, the pawl being movable between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet is held in the striker pin capture position and in which the ratchet is biased toward the striker pin release position; and a power actuator operably coupled to a multi-stage power release chain having at least three torque multiplication stages, wherein each stage has an input and an output, wherein a force applied at the input causes a corresponding force at the output, and the output from one stage drives the next stage in the release chain to release the pawl from the ratchet.

[0054] These and other aspects and areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The following describes the drawings of specific embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected non-limiting embodiments and not all possible or intended implementations thereof, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a motor vehicle equipped with a closure system including a closure latch assembly shown mounted to a vehicle door;

[0057] Figure 2 Is applicable to Figure 1 an isometric view of a closure latch assembly of the illustrated closure system and configured to include a latch module and an actuator module configured to implement the inventive concepts of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 a rear side view of the closure latch assembly shown with the cover removed for viewing the internal latch components;

[0059] Figure 3A Yes Figure 3 a slightly enlarged view of the closure latch assembly shown;

[0060] Figure 3B is similar to Figure 3A a view of the latch assembly with the pin support plate removed for viewing the latch assembly thereunder;

[0061] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the closure latch assembly shown, Figure 4 showing a slot within a housing of a closure latch assembly for movement of a pin therein;

[0062] Figure 4A is through Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the groove:

[0063] Figure 4B yes Figure 4 The plan view of the trough;

[0064] Figure 5A is a rear side view of the closed latch assembly in a fully latched position, wherein the latch release mechanism and various components are shown in a latched, resting position;

[0065] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Front and side view;

[0066] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram showing an actuation feature of a closure latch assembly in an original position displaced relative to a first end of a slot disposed in a linkage arm of the closure latch assembly;

[0067] Fig. 6A is when the latch release mechanism begins to move the components toward the unlocked position. Figure 5A a rear side view of a similar closed latch assembly;

[0068] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A Front and side view;

[0069] Figure 6C is a schematic diagram showing the actuation feature in a position between a home position and an actuated position engaged with a first end of a slot in a linkage arm;

[0070] Fig. 7A is when the latch release mechanism continues to move the components toward the unlocked position. Fig. 6A a rear side view of a similar closed latch assembly;

[0071] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A Front and side view;

[0072] Fig. 8A is similar to Fig. 7A a rear side view of a closure latch assembly of , showing the latch release mechanism and various components in a fully unlocked position;

[0073] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A Front and side view;

[0074] Fig. 9A is shown configured with Figure 2 a perspective view of a latch module operably communicating with a manually actuatable reset device for returning a pawl from a ratchet release position to a ratchet retaining position to allow a vehicle closure panel to move from an open position to a closed position by selective manual actuation of a manually actuated feature;

[0075] Fig. 9B yes Fig. 9A Another perspective view of the manually actuatable reset device;

[0076] Fig. 10A A method of operating a latch mechanism of a closure latch assembly according to another aspect of the present disclosure is shown;

[0077] Fig. 10B A method of manufacturing a closure latch assembly according to another aspect of the present disclosure is shown;

[0078] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a motor vehicle equipped with a system including a closure latch assembly and a door node according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0079] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a system according to aspects of the present disclosure equipped in a motor vehicle;

[0080] Fig.13 is a block diagram of an electronic control circuit known from the prior art that may be used to control a closing latch assembly;

[0081] Fig.14 is a block diagram of an electronic control circuit for a closing latch assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0082] Figures 15 to 21 Additional block diagrams of systems according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown;

[0083] Figure 22 to Figure 24A block diagram of an on-door system according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0084] Fig.25 The system according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown operating in a normal mode of closing the latch assembly;

[0085] Fig.26 A system according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown operating in an emergency mode of a closed latch assembly, wherein there is a loss of power to a door node;

[0086] Fig. 27 A system according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown operating in an emergency mode of a closed latch assembly with no power loss to a door node; and

[0087] Fig.28 Another block diagram of a system including additional details regarding wiring according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0088] Fig.29 A system including a closure latch assembly, a door node, and interior and exterior switches according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0089] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30B illustrates possible leakage paths for the system when the gate node is not powered according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0090] Fig.31 A system including a closure latch assembly, a door node, and alternative interior and exterior switches according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0091] Fig.32 shows a similar Fig.28 Another block diagram of the system shown; and

[0092] Figures 33 to 40 Operation of a door system during normal mode and emergency mode according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0093] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views associated with the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0094] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. To this end, example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey its intended scope to those skilled in the art. Therefore, many specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that specific details do not need to be adopted, and example embodiments can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, known processes, known device structures and known technologies are not described in detail.

[0095] In the following detailed description, the expression "closure latch member" will be used as an illustrative example to generally indicate any power-operated latch device suitable for use with a vehicle closure panel to provide a "power" (i.e., release, cinch, lock / unlock, etc.) function. In addition, the expression "closure panel" will be used to indicate any element movable between an open position and a closed position, the open position and the closed position respectively opening and closing access to an interior compartment of a motor vehicle, thus including but not limited to a trunk lid, tailgate, liftgate, hood and roof in addition to a sliding door or a pivoting side passenger door of a motor vehicle, and the following description will expressly mention it, only as an example.

[0096] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific example embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "cover", "include", "include" and "have" are inclusive, and therefore specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an execution order. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0097] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged to, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0098] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited to these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article, unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the example embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0099] For ease of description, spatially related terms such as "inside", "outside", "lower", "below", "below", "above", "above" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature, as shown in the figure. In addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, spatially related terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element described as "below" or "lower" of other elements or features will be oriented as "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" can cover both the above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially related descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0100] In general, the present disclosure relates to latch components of a type that are well suited for use in many applications. More specifically, closed latch components, doors, latch controllers, and systems for motor vehicles and methods of operating the systems are disclosed herein. The closed latch components, doors, latch controllers, and systems of the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with one or more example embodiments. However, the specific example embodiments disclosed are only intended to describe the concepts, features, advantages, and purposes of the present invention, and will be sufficiently clear to allow those skilled in the art to understand and practice the present disclosure.

[0101] First, refer to the accompanying drawings Figure 1 , a motor vehicle 10 is shown including a vehicle body 12 defining an opening 14 leading to an interior passenger compartment. A vehicle closure panel, also referred to as a door 16, shown as a passenger swing door, is pivotally mounted to the vehicle body 12 for movement between an open position (as shown), a partially closed position, and a fully closed position relative to the opening 14. A closure latch assembly 18 is rigidly secured to the door 16 adjacent an edge portion 16A of the door 16 and releasably engages a striker 20 fixedly secured to a recessed edge portion 14A of the opening 14. As will be described in detail, the closure latch assembly 18 generally includes a power release assembly 24 and a latch mechanism 32 operable to engage the striker 20 and releasably retain the closure panel 16 in one of its partially closed and fully closed positions. An outside handle 21 and an inside handle 23 are provided for actuating (i.e., mechanically and / or electronically) the closure latch assembly 18 to release the striker 20 and allow the closure panel 16 to subsequently move to its open position. An optional locking button 25 is shown that provides a visual indication of the locked state of the closure latch assembly 18 and may also be operable to mechanically change the locked state of the closure latch assembly 18. A weather seal 28 is mounted on the edge portion 14A of the opening 14 in the vehicle body 12 and is adapted to be resiliently compressed when engaged with a mating sealing surface on the closure panel 16 when the closure panel 16 is retained in its fully closed position by the closure latch assembly 18, thereby providing a sealing interface therebetween that is configured to prevent rain and dust from entering the passenger compartment while minimizing audible wind noise.

[0102] The closure latch assembly 18 generally includes a latch housing 30 within which the various components of the latch mechanism 32, latch release mechanism 33, and power release assembly 24 are supported. FIG. 5A to FIG. 8BThe latch mechanism 32 best shown in the figures includes a ratchet 36 and a pawl 38, which is shown by way of example but not limitation as a roller-type engagement device having what is hereinafter referred to as a roller 40. Examples of rollers and associated guide structures (e.g., carriers, arms, cages) are shown in US20190242163A1, entitled "Closure latch assembly with latch mechanism having roller pawl assembly" and US10745947B2, entitled "Automotive latch including bearing to facilitate release effort," both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. The ratchet 36 is operably supported on the latch housing 30 by a ratchet pivot post 42 for use in a released or "strike release" position ( Fig. 8A and Figure 8B ), a soft closed or "secondary striker capture" position (not shown), and a hard closed or "primary striker capture" position ( Figure 5A and Figure 5B ). The ratchet 36 includes a striker guide channel 44 that terminates in a striker retaining cavity 46. Figure 2 As shown, the latch housing 30 includes a fishmouth slot 48 that is aligned to receive movement of the striker 20 relative thereto as the door 16 moves toward its closed position. The ratchet 36 includes a primary latch notch 50, an auxiliary latch notch 52, and an edge surface 54. Arrow 58 ( Figure 5B ) represents a ratchet biasing member which is arranged to normally bias the ratchet 36 towards its striker release position.

[0103] The pawl 38 is shown operably mounted to the latch housing 30 for pivotal movement about the pawl pivot post 62, and includes a first pawl leg segment 64 and a second pawl leg segment 66 that define a pawl engagement surface. The length of the first pawl leg segment 64 is greater than the length of the second pawl leg segment 66. The first pawl leg segment 64 and the second pawl leg segment 66 can be formed as a unitary structure as shown and mounted about a common pivot point (i.e., at the pawl pivot post 62). The roller engagement device 40 is secured to the second pawl leg segment 66 of the pawl 38 for engagement with the distal end 39 (see FIG. 2 ) of the second pawl leg segment 66. Figure 6B ) rolling contact. The pawl 38 can be in the ratchet release position ( Figure 8B ) and ratchet hold position ( Figure 5B ). The pawl 38 is typically biased toward its ratchet holding position by a pawl biasing member, as shown by arrow 80 ( Figure 5B ) as shown. The pawl pivot column 62 and the ratchet pivot column 42 (as shown Figure 3A , Figure 5A , Fig. 6A , Fig. 7A and Fig. 8A The pawl 38 is shown schematically configured as a bell crank, which is adapted to receive force input from a previous torque multiplication stage at a first pawl leg segment 64 and further provide torque multiplication through connection with a shorter second pawl leg segment 66 having a ratchet engagement surface at a distal end 39 for direct contact with the ratchet 36 or for interaction with the roller 40. The pawl 38 configured as part of a bell crank assembly provides further torque multiplication of the release force received from the linkage arm 82. The pawl 38 configured as a bell crank also allows for an angle between the first pawl leg segment 64 of the pawl 38 and the second pawl leg segment 66 of the pawl 38, for example, less than 90 degrees, and Figure 6B 45 degrees, but is an illustrative example of the angle variation provided - to vary the motion, thereby providing further packaging advantages for the latch assembly 18, such as for providing a shorter link arm 82, the positioning of the gear train in line with the component pivot points 42, 92, 98, 104, thereby providing a long and narrow packaging for the latch 18. Thus, the pawl 38 is actuated by a multi-stage power release chain actuated by a motor 88, the multi-stage power release chain having at least three torque multiplication or reduction stages, wherein each stage has an input and an output, wherein a force applied at the input of each stage causes a corresponding force at the output of the corresponding stage, and the output of one stage drives the next stage in the release chain to release the pawl from the ratchet. The configuration described herein provides a compact latch assembly, which is at least due to the reduction in size of the motor 88, which is due to the multiple gear stages and torque reduction, the increase in the output force of the motor 88, and the interconnection of the stages through the use of a crank mechanism, without the use of a rod that requires additional pivot points to be mounted to the frame plate of the latch assembly 18 to allow the rod chain to transmit force to each other. For example, the link arm 82 is directly connected to the pawl 38 and the gear train, rather than being directly pivotally connected to the frame plate or housing of the latch assembly 18. For example, a pawl assembly configured as a bell crank shares the mounting points of the arms 64, 66. The pawl 38 can also be configured as a single pawl configuration due to the high release force it receives from the multi-stage power release chain, as compared to more complex and space-consuming pawl configurations (e.g., dual pawl assemblies or dual pawl dual ratchet assemblies) having multiple pawls and multiple mounting pivot points.

[0104] like Figure 8B As shown, when the ratchet 36 is in its striker release position due to the engagement of the roller 40 with the edge surface 54 on the ratchet 36 , the pawl 38 is retained in its ratchet release position, thereby establishing a released operational state of the latch mechanism 32 . Figure 5BThe pawl 38 is shown in its ratchet holding position, wherein the roller 40 engages the primary latch notch 50 on the ratchet 36 so that the pawl 38 holds the ratchet 36 in its primary striker capture position, thereby holding the door 16 in its fully closed position and establishing a primary latched operating state of the latch mechanism 32.

[0105] The latch release mechanism 33 is shown as being connected to the first pawl leg segment 64 of the pawl 38. The latch release mechanism 33 is used to move the pawl 38 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet releasing position when it is desired to move the latch mechanism 32 to its release operating state. The interior latch release mechanism 68 operably couples the interior handle 23 to the latch release mechanism 33 to allow the latch mechanism 32 to be manually released from the interior passenger compartment of the vehicle 10. Likewise, the exterior latch release mechanism 70 operably couples the exterior handle 21 to the latch release mechanism 33 to allow the latch mechanism 32 to be manually released from the exterior of the vehicle 10. The exterior latch release mechanism 70 is an example of a manual release latch mechanism and may also operate as an interior latch release mechanism 68 operably coupled to the interior handle.

[0106] The external latch release mechanism 70 includes an external latch release lever (hereinafter referred to as an external latch lever 72), an external link lever 74, an external link biasing member, shown as an external link spring member 73, and an external rod biasing member, shown as an external rod spring member 75. In the stop position, the external link biasing member 73 is aligned with the arrow D1 ( Figure 3 ) in the opposite direction to the external link lever 74, and the external link biasing member 75 biases the external latch lever 72 in the counterclockwise direction, such as Figures 3 to 3B shown.

[0107] The internal latch release mechanism 68 includes an internal latch release lever, hereinafter referred to as the internal latch lever 76, and an internal lever biasing member, shown as an internal lever spring member 78. In the stop position, the internal lever biasing member 78 applies a bias to the internal latch lever 76 in the direction opposite to the arrow D2 so that the internal latch lever 76 is biased in the clockwise direction, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0108] During use, the outer latch bar 72 is moved in direction D3 ( Figure 3) is moved, such as by way of example but not limitation, actuated by the external handle 21 via a rod or Bowden cable 21'. When the external latch lever 72 moves against the bias of the external lever biasing member 75, the external latch lever 72 rotates clockwise in the direction indicated by arrow R1, which in turn causes the external link lever 74 to translate in the direction indicated by arrow D1 against the bias applied by the external link biasing member 73. When the external link lever 74 translates in the direction D1, the external link lever 74, such as by way of example but not limitation, acts on the pawl 38 via the link arm 82 of the latch release mechanism 33 to cause the pawl 38 to move in the direction indicated by arrow R2 ( Figure 3 ) to move the pawl 38 from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet releasing position.

[0109] In a similar manner, the inner latch bar 76 is moved in direction D2 ( Figure 3 ) is moved, such as by way of example but not limitation, by actuation of the interior handle 23 via a rod or Bowden cable 23'. When the interior latch lever 76 overcomes the biasing movement of the interior lever biasing member 78, the interior latch lever 76 rotates counterclockwise in the direction indicated by arrow R3, which forces the drive surface 84 of the interior latch lever 76 into engagement with the lug or driven surface 86 of the exterior link lever 74, thereby translating the exterior link lever 74 in the direction indicated by arrow D1, overcoming the bias applied by the exterior link biasing member 73, thereby moving the pawl 38 from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet releasing position, as discussed above with respect to the actuation of the exterior latch lever 72.

[0110] In addition to the manual actuation of the latch mechanism 32 discussed above for the exterior latch lever 72 and the interior latch lever 76, the power release assembly 24 provides for powered actuation of the latch mechanism 32 through selective energization of a power release actuator (e.g., an electrically actuated motor of the power release assembly 24, referred to as motor 88). The motor 88, when energized, causes the latch release mechanism 33 to move the pawl 38 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet releasing position.

[0111] In this non-limiting configuration, the motor 88 interacts with the latch mechanism 32 to provide a "power to release" function by actuating the latch release mechanism 33 to move the pawl 38 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet releasing position. However, additionally or alternatively, the motor 88 may be configured to provide one or more other "power" functions provided by the latch mechanism 32, such as, for example, power train pull or power lock / unlock.

[0112] The motor 88 has a motor shaft 90 that extends along a first axis also referred to as the motor axis A1 and drives a drive gear, shown as a worm gear 92 fixed to the motor shaft 90, to rotate about the motor axis A1. The worm gear 92 is configured to be in operative driving engagement with a gear train 94 that provides a gear reduction that increases the output torque, thereby resulting in torque multiplication of the power release assembly 24. Due to the torque multiplication provided by the various stages of the described power release chain, the size and power output of the motor 88 can be minimized, thereby reducing the size of the closure latch assembly 18.

[0113] The first driven gear 96 of the gear train 94 is arranged to be in continuous meshing engagement with the worm gear 92 for rotation about a second axis, which second axis, also referred to as the first driven gear axis A2, extends in a transverse relationship to the first axis A1. Therefore, the first driven gear 96 is supported by an axle, also referred to as the first pin 98, which extends along the second axis A2. The first driven gear 96 is configured to be driven via the driven pinion 102 ( Figure 3 ) is in an operable driving relationship with the second driven gear 100. The pinion 102 is fixed in a concentric relationship with the first driven gear 96 so as to rotate jointly with the first driven gear about the second axis A2. The pinion 102 is arranged to be continuously meshed with the second driven gear 100 to drive the second driven gear 100 to rotate about a third axis, which is also referred to as the second driven gear axis A3. Therefore, the second driven gear 100 is supported by an axle, also referred to as the second pin 104, which extends along the third axis A3. The first pin 98 is parallel to the second pin 104, and therefore, the second axis A2 and the third axis A3 are also parallel to each other, and the second axis A2 and the third axis A3 extend in a transverse relationship to the motor axis A1. Therefore, the motor 88 extends along the plane of the latch housing 30, thereby providing the closing latch assembly 18 with a narrow profile viewed along the plane of the latch housing 30.

[0114] Torque multiplication can be achieved as desired by controlling the gear ratios between the worm gear 92 and the first driven gear 96, the gear ratios between the driven pinion 102 and the second driven gear 100, and the gear ratios between the second driven gear 100 and the drive pin 110. Illustratively, the gears 92, 96, 102, 100 form a gear train having at least three torque multiplication stages and an output end illustratively shown as being coupled to the drive pin 110 of the pawl 38. In a non-limiting example, as Figure 4As shown, the worm gear 92 has 2 teeth, the first driven gear 96 has 40 teeth, the driven pinion 102 has 11 teeth, and the second driven gear 100 has 55 teeth. Therefore, the resulting ratio between the worm gear 92 and the first driven gear 96 is 1:20, and the resulting ratio between the driven pinion 102 and the second driven gear 100 is 1:5. Therefore, the total ratio is 1:100, thereby significantly multiplying the output torque of the motor 88.

[0115] The actuation feature (also referred to as a drive pin 110) extends laterally outward from the generally flat side of the second driven gear 100 along a fourth axis, which is also referred to as the drive pin axis A4. The drive pin axis A4 is parallel to the second driven gear axis A3 and is shown as being in close proximity to the second driven gear axis A3. As further discussed, the close proximity of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3 facilitates smooth and reliable operation of the closing latch assembly 18. The drive pin 110 is configured in a non-limiting arrangement as an elongated drive pin oriented relative to the link arm 82, wherein the link arm 82 operably connects the pawl 38 with the drive pin 110. The link arm 82 and the drive pin 110 are illustratively configured as a crank mechanism that provides a variable torque multiplication stage between the output pin 110 and the pawl 38, and more illustratively configured as a first leg segment 64 as will be described in more detail herein below. The crank mechanism actuated by the output of the gear train (e.g., by the drive pin 110) provides an initial infinite gear ratio and high torque output for moving the pawl 38 from an initial ratchet holding position where the release effect is maximized. The crank mechanism provides an initial high release force transmitted to the pawl 38 for overcoming the high release force due to the seal load, which may be in the range of 5 kilonewtons, followed by a reduction in torque and a corresponding increase in the release movement of the pawl 38 to subsequently quickly move the pawl to the released position. The crank mechanisms 82, 38 also provide assembly flexibility by providing a bridging interconnection configuration between the gear train output disposed on one side of the latch assembly 18 and the pawl 38 and ratchet 36 disposed adjacent to the gear train on the other side of the latch assembly 18, and can save space (e.g., by eliminating additional levers, pivotal connections of the levers, swing paths of the levers), which space could in turn be occupied by other gear train dimensions. The close proximity of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3, for example, at Figure 3A It is shown in Figure 3AA radius R1 of the drive pin axis A4 is shown that is smaller than the radius R2 of the outer circumference of the second driven gear 100, which is away from the driven gear axis A3. For example, the radius R1 can be less than 50% of the radius R2, and in another non-limiting example, the radius R1 can be less than 25% of the radius R2. The close proximity of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3 can also further limit the range of motion or swing of the link arm 82, thereby allowing other latch components to occupy space that may otherwise be unavailable in the following configuration: in this configuration, the drive pin 110 is positioned closer to the outer circumference of the second driven gear 100 and further away from the second driven gear axis A3, so as to cause a larger swing of the link arm 82; or the above-mentioned close proximity can allow the size of the latch housing 30 to be reduced due to not having to accommodate such a larger swing or movement of the link arm 82 during power release. Still further, the close proximity of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3, or in other words, the closer radial position or distance of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3 compared to the radial position or distance of the drive pin axis A4 to the outer circumference of the second driven gear 100, reduces the moment arm generated between the drive pin 110 and the second driven gear axis A3 during rotation of the second driven gear 100, and thus, the motor 88 does not need to overcome a greater increase in the moment arm due to the closer proximity of the drive pin axis A4 to the second driven gear axis A3 as would be the case if the drive pin 110 was positioned closer to the outer circumference of the second driven gear 100 and farther away from the second driven gear axis A3. Specifically, as FIG. 5A to FIG. 8A As shown, the rotation of the second driven gear 100 in the clockwise direction CW from the original position to the released position via the power supply of the electric motor 88 in response to the power release command causes the drive pin 110 to move the link arm 82 and drive the pawl 38 from the ratchet holding position of the pawl to its ratchet release position. After the power release command, the electric motor 88 is commanded to rotate the second driven gear 100 in the opposite counterclockwise direction CCW back to its original position in order to reset the latch release mechanism 33, thereby subsequently allowing the pawl 38 to move back to its ratchet holding position. According to another aspect of the present invention, a mechanically actuatable reset device 610 ( Fig. 9A , from FIG. 5A to FIG. 8AThe latch mechanism 32 may be configured to facilitate rotation of the second driven gear 100 back to its original position so as to reset the latch release mechanism 33 of the latch mechanism 32 to allow the pawl 38 to be moved back to its ratchet holding position in the event that the pawl 38 is stuck in the ratchet release position for any reason. The reset device 610 is supported for mechanical actuation rotation via a support housing (such as the latch housing 30). The reset device 610 has an actuation feature 612, such as a knob, lever, handle, etc., which can be manually grasped by hand and / or accessed via a tool to affect the mechanical rotation of the reset device 610 when necessary. By way of example and not limitation, the actuation feature 612 can be accessed along an edge portion of the closure panel 16 (also referred to as the closing face 16A). Thus, when the closure panel 16 is moved to the open position, and if the pawl 38 is prevented from returning to the ratchet hold position from the ratchet release position, the ratchet 36 may be prevented from being maintained in the striker capture position, thereby preventing the vehicle closure panel 16 from being closed, such as may occur if the motor 88 becomes inoperable for any reason. By way of example and not limitation, the actuation feature 612 can be mechanically actuated by hand and / or a tool with easy access to the closure surface 16A to return the pawl 38 to the ratchet hold position, thereby allowing the closure panel 16 to move from the open position to the closed and latched position.

[0116] The link arm 82 is shown as coupling the drive pin 110 directly to the first pawl leg section 64 of the pawl 38 to form a lost motion connection between the drive pin and the first pawl leg section; however, it is contemplated that an additional lever or mechanism may be added between the pawl and the drive pin by operably connecting the pawl 38 to the drive pin 110. An example of a latch provided with a link arm is shown in WO2021062541A1 entitled "Closure latch assembly", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The link arm 82 is elongated and extends longitudinally between opposite first and second ends 112 and 114. To facilitate forming a lost motion connection between the second driven gear 100 and the pawl 38, the link arm 82 has an elongated slot 116 extending longitudinally between opposite first and second drive ends 118 and 120, the elongated slot being intermediate the opposite first and second ends 112 and 114 of the link arm 82. The elongated slot 116 is illustratively shown as a linearly extending elongated slot or a linear slot, rather than a curved slot. The second driven gear 100 is operably coupled to the link arm 82 near the first end 112 of the link arm 82 by a drive pin 110 disposed in the slot 116 for sliding along the slot 116, wherein the length of the slot 116 is greater than the diameter of the drive pin 110, thereby creating a lost motion connection, which means that the drive pin 110 can translate within the slot 116 until it engages with one of the ends of the slot 116. As an example and not limitation, the pawl 38 is operably coupled to the link arm 82 near the second end 114, such as via a pin 122. It should be appreciated that the pin 122 can be a rivet or other, and the pin 122 is attached to and extends from the pawl 38, which can allow the link arm 82 to rotate around the pin. For example, a receiver such as a hole in the link arm 82 can be configured to receive the pin 122 therein and allow the link arm 82 to rotate around the pin 122. Alternatively, the pin 122 may be attached to and extend from the linkage arm 82 for receipt in a receiver or hole provided in the pawl 38. Figures 4 to 4B As shown, the pin 122 is supported for movement within an arcuate slot 123 of the housing 30 in a direction transverse to its longitudinally extending axis. The slot 123 helps support the pin 122 to prevent bending due to high torque loads on the pin 122 that move the linkage arm 82. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, a Hall effect sensor / magnet may be associated with the linkage arm 82, such as by being fixed near the second end 114 and / or on the pin 122, so as to transmit position information directly to the sensor for use in determining the precise position of the pawl 38.

[0117] In use, due to the minimal friction created by the roller 40 against the pawl 38, the release effort (force) required to move the pawl 38 relative to the ratchet wheel 36 is relatively small, and therefore, in combination with the increased torque provided by the gear train 94, the size of the motor 88 and the magnitude of the torque output therefrom can be reduced relative to known powered release actuators. In addition, as described above, in part due to the reduced torque required to move and release the pawl 38' from the ratchet wheel 36', the proximity of the drive pin 110 and its axis A4 to the rotational axis A3 of the second driven gear 100 can be minimized. Since the drive pin 110 is located near the central rotational axis (driven gear axis A3) of the second driven gear 100, as shown in FIG. FIG. 5A to FIG. 8A As shown, throughout the rotational movement of the second driven gear 100 during the latch release operation, the radial movement of the link arm 82 relative to the second driven gear axis A3 is minimized. In addition, at least a portion of the movement of the link arm 82 is linear (radially traversing relative to the pawl pivot post 62), thereby pulling the pawl 38 against the bias imparted by the pawl biasing member 80 on the pawl 38 during the release operation, which results in a smooth and continuous release movement of the pawl 38. In addition, due to the length L ( Figure 5B , extending between the pawl pivot post 62 of the pawl 38 and the pin 122) is generally transverse to the tension F imparted by the linkage arm 82 on the free end of the first pawl leg segment 64 ( Fig. 6A ) direction, so high torque is applied to the pawl 38 to facilitate easy release.

[0118] In addition, as described above, due to the travel of the drive pin 110 in the slot 116, lost motion is provided between the movement of the second driven gear 100 and the movement of the pawl 38, which in turn leads to an increase in the required release efficiency and a reduction in the size of the motor 88 due to the following reasons: the inertia of the gear train 94 including the first driven gear 96 and the second driven gear 100 and the motor 88 is increased before the pawl 38 starts to move. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, when the motor 88 is selectively energized and the second driven gear 100 is driven to rotate about the driven gear axis A3, the drive pin 110 is allowed to slide freely in the slot 116 in a free-wheeling manner before driving the link arm 82, as shown in FIG. Figure 5C and Figure 6C As schematically shown in more detail in Figure 5C The drive pin 110 is shown in its original position and is displaced a distance D relative to the first drive end 118 and is not in contact with the first drive end 118, while Figure 6CIn the disengaged position of the freewheeling connection, it is shown that the drive pin 110 is engaged with the first drive end 118 in one illustrative example. During such initial free movement of the drive pin 110, the drive pin 110 has not yet contacted the first drive end 118, which provides a safety function by decoupling the initial movement of the drive pin 110 caused by radial movement of the second driven gear 100 from the movement of the pawl 38, such as by any temporary unintended energization of the motor 88 not during the power release function or caused by any minor unintended movement of the second driven gear 100, such as due to impact or inertia. The pawl 38 is not moved during this initial pre-travel of the drive pin 110. In addition, before the drive pin 110 is initially engaged against the first drive end 118 of the slot 116, the inertia of the gear train 94 and / or the motor 88 is allowed to develop and increase without encountering resistance due to contact with the first drive end 118. Such an increase may be a significant increase in the inertia of the powered actuator 88, for example when the motor is still increasing by more than 20% of its rotational speed before the pin 110 collides with the first drive end 118. Figure 6C As shown, when the drive pin 110 finally contacts the first drive end 118 in an intermediate position between the initial position and the actuated position, or in the engaged position of the free-wheeling connection, the drive pin 110 does contact the first drive end 118 with the speed and momentum developed during the previous free travel, and imparts an impact or jolt to the link arm 82, thereby causing a corresponding impact or jolt on the pawl 38. Such an impact or jolt may help to overcome the static inertia of the pawl 38 and / or overcome the static friction between the pawl 38 and the ratchet 36 or between the roller 40 and the pawl 38 and / or the ratchet 36. Therefore, the action on the first drive end 118 subsequently acts on Figure 6CThe release effect for moving the pawl 38 via the pin 110 in the illustrated intermediate position is not only the force generated by the motor 88, but also the force resulting from the momentum of the motor 88 and the gear train 94 generated during the initial pre-travel phase. The force of the motor 88 during this pre-travel phase also serves to overcome the static inertia of the motor 88 and the second driven gear 100 before acting on the pawl 38, the linkage arm 82, and any other interposed release chain components (if any). Compared to a configuration in which the power release motor begins to move the pawl immediately upon energization, such a configuration results in the motor having to overcome not only the static inertia of its own mass, but also the static inertia conditions of the pawl and any interposed release chain components simultaneously, which requires a more powerful motor than the motor 88 described herein. In the configuration of the latch assembly 18, the lost motion connection allows momentum to increase in the drive system (e.g., the motor 88 and the second driven gear 100), causing the pin 110 to strike the first drive end 118 to help overcome static friction of the roller 40 at (one or more) contact points between the roller 40 and the pawl 38 and the surface of the ratchet 36 when the roller 40 is in a non-rolling state, thereby helping to transition the roller 40 to a rolling state, e.g., the contact points between the roller 40 and the pawl 38 and the surface of the ratchet 36 experience rolling friction that is lower than static friction. Thus, the motor 88 does not have to overcome both the static friction of the roller 40 and the stationary inertia of the motor 88, drive train 94, linkage arm 82, and pawl 38 simultaneously, but rather the lost motion connection allows the inertia of the stationary bodies of the motor 88, drive train 94, linkage arm 82, and pawl 38 to be overcome in separate actuation phases, wherein the stationary inertia of the components upstream of the lost motion connection (e.g., motor 88, drive train 94) is overcome during a first release phase before the drive pin 110 is coupled to the first drive end 118, before the stationary inertia and static friction of the components downstream of the lost motion connection (e.g., linkage arm 82, pawl 38, and roller 40) are overcome during a second release phase. Thus, the motor 88 does not have to overcome the inertia and friction of the entire release chain simultaneously, and can therefore be provided with a lower power output and a smaller motor size.

[0119] When the drive pin 110 engages against the first drive end 118 of the slot 116, the lost motion connection transitions from a disengaged state or position to an engaged state or position such that continued movement of the drive pin 110 results in movement of the linkage arm 82. Then, during the initial engagement of the drive pin 110 against the first drive end 118 of the slot 116, the initial movement of the linkage arm 82 pivots about the pin 122 so that the linkage arm 82 does not pull on the pawl 38, which phenomena together allow further buildup of inertia in the motor 88 and the drive train 94. Then, after the linkage arm 82 is linearly driven relative to the pawl pin 62, with the drive pin 110 engaging and pulling the first drive end 118, the accumulation or build-up of inertia, such as rotational inertia generated by the increase or acceleration of the speed of the motor 88 and other rotating components such as the first driven gear 96 and the second driven gear 100 before the lost motion connection transitions from the disengaged state or disengaged position to the engaged state or engaged position, helps to move the pawl 38 from its ratchet holding position to its ratchet releasing position while overcoming the bias of the pawl biasing member 80. Because the drive pin 110 is displaced a distance D relative to the first drive end 118 and is not positioned in the original position where the drive pin 110 is already engaged, or is not positioned closely in a position to engage with the first drive end 118 so that the drive pin 110 will pull the first drive end 118 immediately after the motor 88 is energized, a time delay is provided between the moment when the motor 88 is energized and the moment when the pawl 38 is caused to move. In other words, when the drive pin 110 is in its home position, after the motor 88 is energized, the drive pin 110 will freely move within the slot 116 to traverse the distance D within a predetermined range of travel before contacting the first drive end 118. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B), the second driven gear 100 has been driven between approximately 180 and 190 degrees, at which point the drive pin 110 has rotated to an over-center position relative to alignment with the driven gear axis A3 and the pin 122, so that the pawl biasing member 80 effectively holds the second driven gear 100 in its fully traveled position against the gear stop damper 124, and there is no need for the motor 88 to be continuously energized in this over-center position to prevent the linkage arm 82 from tending to rotate the second driven gear 100 back to its position under the influence of the pawl biasing member 80. The stop damper 124 is provided on the first gear 100 to reduce the torque impact of the stop damper 124 on a hard stop, such as a stop provided on the latch housing. In other words, when the actuation feature 110 is in its actuation position, the linkage arm 82 is in an over-center position relative to the axis A3 of the second driven gear 100. The motor 88 can then be de-energized after reaching the full travel position and over-center position of the drive pin 110, and the linkage arm 82 maintains the pawl 38 in its ratchet release position and in tension between the drive pin 110 via the pawl biasing member 80. Thus, no additional levers or components are required to provide the full travel position or snow hold function, nor is continuous power to the motor 88 required, nor is a larger and more robust motor 88 required to withstand stall operating conditions to perform the full travel position or snow hold function. To transition out of the full travel position or snow hold function, the motor 88 can be powered in the opposite return direction to cause the pin drive 110 to move the linkage arm 82 out of the over-center position, at which point the pawl biasing member 80 can be allowed to assist the pawl 38 in returning toward the ratchet hold position and allow the linkage arm 82 to correspondingly return toward the ratchet hold position. Figure 5A and Figure 5BDuring the time that the motor 88 is powered in the return direction, the motor 88 may not be configured to move any other components other than the gear train 94 and the linkage arm 82 as described herein, and, for example, the output power of the motor 88 is not used to tie the ratchet 36 so that the ratchet 36 moves the striker retained by the ratchet 36 to the substantially latched position. The power output from the motor used to perform the tie-in function may be greater than the power release function, thus requiring a larger motor for performing both the tie-in and power release operations. The cinch function associated with the closing latch assembly 18 of the present disclosure may be powered by a separate actuator or motor in addition to the motor 88, which is not located within the housing of the closing latch assembly 18 but is remote from and separate from the housing closing latch assembly 18, which is disposed in a visibly mounted housing and is interconnected by a cinch cable connected between the cinch actuator and a cinch mechanism mounted within the housing of the closing latch assembly 18, the cinch mechanism being operably connected to the ratchet 36 for moving the ratchet 36 toward a substantially closed position as part of a cinch operation.

[0120] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, Fig. 10A As shown, a method 1000 for operating the latch mechanism 32 of the closing latch assembly 18 is provided. The method 1000 includes: step 1100, selectively energizing the power actuator 88 to rotate the driving gear 92; step 1200, driving the gear train 94 using the driving gear 92; step 1300, driving the actuation feature 110 in response to the gear train 94 being driven; and step 1400, moving the pawl 38 from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet release position through the lost motion connection with the actuation feature 110 to allow the ratchet 36 to move from the striker holding position to the striker release position.

[0121] Method 1000 may also include step 1500 of driving first driven gear 96 of gear train 94 using driving gear 92 and driving second driven gear 100 of gear train 94 using driven pinion 102 and causing actuation feature 110 to be driven in conjunction with second driven gear 100 .

[0122] Method 1000 may also include step 1600 of providing torque multiplication between the driving gear 92 and the second driven gear 100 by providing a first gear ratio for the driving gear 92 and the first driven gear 96, providing a second gear ratio for the driven pinion 102 and the second driven gear 100, and providing a third gear ratio for the driving gear 92 and the second driven gear 100, wherein the second gear ratio is greater than the first gear ratio, and the third gear ratio is greater than the second gear ratio.

[0123] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, Fig. 10B As shown, the method 2000 of manufacturing the closed latch assembly 18 includes: step 2100, supporting the ratchet 36 in the housing for movement between a striker capture position and a striker release position; step 2200, supporting the pawl 38 in the housing for movement between a ratchet holding position and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet 36 is in the striker capture position at the ratchet holding position, and in which the ratchet 36 is biased toward the striker release position at the ratchet release position, and the pawl 38 is biased toward the striker release position. biased; step 2300, coupling the actuating feature to the pawl 38 using the latch release mechanism 33; step 2400, configuring the actuating feature 110 to have a lost motion connection with the latch release mechanism 33; and step 2500, operably coupling the power actuator 88 to the actuating feature 110 using the gear train 94, wherein the gear train 94 provides torque multiplication between the driving gear 92 fixed to the motor shaft 90 of the power actuator 88 and the driven gear 100 of the gear train 94.

[0124] The method 2000 may also include step 2600 of configuring the latch release mechanism 33 to provide a lost motion connection between the actuation feature 110 and the pawl 38 .

[0125] Method 2000 may also include step 2700: providing a latch release mechanism 33 including a linkage arm 82 having a slot 116 extending between a first drive end 118 and a second drive end 120; and providing an actuating feature 110 including a drive pin 110 configured to slide between the first drive end 118 and the second drive end 120.

[0126] Method 2000 may also include step 2800 of configuring drive pin 110 to move from first drive end 118 to second drive end 120 after power actuator 88 is energized and to initiate movement of pawl 38 from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet releasing position after drive pin 110 engages second drive end 120 .

[0127] The method 2000 may also include step 2900 of operably coupling the release cable 23 ′ to the pawl 38 and configuring the release cable 23 ′ for manual actuation so that the lost motion connection prevents the powered actuator 88 from being backdriven.

[0128] Now first refer to Fig.11 and Fig.12 , a system 200 for controlling a power release motor (ie, motor 88) of a closure latch assembly (eg, closure latch assembly 18) is shown. Specifically, Fig.11is a perspective view of a motor vehicle 10 equipped with a system 200. In the system 200, the closing latch assembly 18 is capable of operating in one of a normal operating mode and an emergency mode. As described above, the closing latch assembly 18 includes a power release motor 88. The system 200 includes a basic controller external to the closing latch assembly 18. For example, the basic controller can be a door node 224 for a first closing member (e.g., a front passenger door 226). Therefore, the power release motor 88 is configured to operate using a basic control signal received from the basic controller during the normal operating mode of the closing latch assembly 18. It should be understood that the basic controller can be located somewhere else on the motor vehicle 10 other than the front passenger door 226 or another closing member. Fig.12 is a more detailed block diagram of the system 200 , illustrating a basic controller (eg, gate node 224 ) of the system 200 including a main motor drive 227 .

[0129] The base controller is configured to provide a base control signal 228 to the power release motor 88 via a base release motor drive line 229 (using a base motor driver 227) in response to receiving a door open signal during a normal operating mode. Although not shown, the system 200 may include a rear door node for a second closure member (e.g., a rear passenger door 230). The front door node 224 includes a base electronic control unit 232 (e.g., a processor) having a plurality of input-output terminals adapted to connect to a primary power source (e.g., a battery pack 234) and to a vehicle bus (e.g., a CAN or controller area network) (not shown) via a door node power supply line 235.

[0130] The system 200 also includes an auxiliary controller within the closure latch assembly 18. The auxiliary controller is configured to provide an auxiliary control signal 237 to the power release motor 88 via an auxiliary release motor drive circuit 239 (using an auxiliary motor driver 236) in response to receiving a door open signal during the emergency mode. The auxiliary controller is also configured not to provide the auxiliary control signal to the power release motor 88 during the normal operating mode. For example, the auxiliary controller can be a latch controller 238 of the closure latch assembly 18, which includes an auxiliary electronic control unit 240 (e.g., a processor) that communicates with the primary electronic control unit 232 for latching the first closure member 226 relative to the motor vehicle 10 (e.g., relative to the body 12 of the motor vehicle 10). Therefore, the power release motor 88 is configured to operate using the auxiliary control signal received from the auxiliary controller during the emergency operating mode of the closure latch assembly 18, but will not operate using the auxiliary control signal received from the auxiliary controller during the normal operating mode. As discussed in more detail below, the closure latch assembly 18 also includes a backup energy source (eg, a supercapacitor) that is coupled to the battery pack 234 for charging via the supercapacitor charging supply line 242 .

[0131] The system 200 further includes a body control module 244 (BCM) that communicates with the primary controller (eg, the door node 224) and the secondary controller (eg, the latch controller 238). Fig.12 As shown, a collision / post-collision signal line or collision signal line 246 extends between the BCM and the gate node 224 and the latch controller 238 to communicate when the BCM detects that the motor vehicle 10 is involved in a collision through a collision signal 247. Specifically, the post-collision status is also sent in the case of an undervoltage (e.g., the voltage of the battery pack 234 is less than the expected voltage range). If a rollover collision occurs, the post-collision status is sent after 5 seconds. If a frontal collision or a rear collision occurs, TCR ON is sent after the collision.

[0132] At least one first handle switch (e.g., a first inside switch 248 and a first outside switch 250 associated with a first inside handle 252 and a first outside handle 254 of the front passenger door 226, respectively) is coupled to both the base electronic control unit 232 and the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 for detecting operation of the first inside handle 252 and the first outside handle 254 of the first closing member 226. According to one aspect, each handle 252, 254 may include two switches (instead of each switch 248, 250 being connected to both the base electronic control unit 232 and the auxiliary electronic control unit 240, each of the base electronic control unit 232 and the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 is coupled to its own handle switch in the handle 252, 254, respectively). The inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250 on the front passenger door 226 may be used to indicate that a user is attempting to move the door 226. Thus, if Fig.12 As shown, the door open signal 256 can come from, for example, the inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250. The closing latch assembly 18 (latch controller 238) knows (via the collision signal line 246) when there is a collision. If there is no collision, the closing latch assembly will ignore the open signal 256. However, in normal mode, the open signal 256 causes the closure latch assembly 18 to wake up and release power through the door node 224 (basic control signal 228).

[0133] Fig.13 is a block diagram of a known electronic control circuit 310 that may be used in conjunction with the closure latch assembly 18. As shown, the electronic control circuit 310 is coupled (directly and / or indirectly via a vehicle management unit 312 (e.g., BCM 244)) to a number of different sensors 315 (schematically shown) of the motor vehicle 10, such as: at least one first handle switch 315a (e.g., the first inside switch 248 and the first outside switch 250 associated with the first inside handle 252 and the first outside handle 254 of the front passenger door 226, respectively), a collision sensor 315b (e.g., from the BCM 244), a lock switch sensor 315c, etc.; conveniently, the electronic control circuit 310 also receives feedback information regarding latch actuation from a position sensor 315d (such as a Hall sensor) that is configured to detect, for example, the operating position of the ratchet 36 and / or the pawl 38.

[0134] The electronic control circuit 310 is also coupled to the main power source of the motor vehicle 10 (e.g., the battery pack 234) to receive the battery pack voltage Vbatt. The electronic control circuit 310 is therefore able to check whether the value of the battery pack voltage Vbatt drops below a predetermined threshold to quickly determine whether an emergency situation has occurred (when a backup energy source may be required).

[0135] The electronic control circuit 310 includes an embedded integrated backup energy source 320, which is configured to: provide electrical energy to an actuating group 306' (e.g., ratchet 36, pawl 38) including a latch electric motor 309 (e.g., power release motor 88) and to provide electrical energy to the same electronic control circuit 310 in the event of a failure or interruption in the main power supply from the main power source of the motor vehicle 10.

[0136] In more detail, the electronic control circuit 310 includes a control unit 321 (e.g., an auxiliary controller), which is provided with, for example, a microcontroller, microprocessor or similar computing module 321a (e.g., an auxiliary electronic control unit), which is coupled to the backup energy source 320 and the actuation group 306' of the closing latch assembly 18 to control its operation. Therefore, the control unit 321 can include a power release function, which includes: monitoring the latch sensor (e.g., configured to monitor the position of the ratchet 36 and the pawl 38); controlling the lock motor 309 (e.g., the power release motor 88); and controlling the motor driver 236 during normal operation and emergency or collision operation.

[0137] The control unit 321 has an embedded memory 321b, such as a non-volatile random access memory, coupled to the computing module 321a, which stores suitable programs and computer instructions (e.g., in the form of firmware). It should be appreciated that the control unit 321 may optionally include logic circuits of discrete components for performing the functions of the computing module 321a and the memory 321b.

[0138] According to one aspect, the backup energy source 320 includes a low voltage super capacitor bank 322 (hereinafter referred to as super capacitor bank 322), which serves as an energy supply unit (or energy tank) to provide backup power to the closing latch assembly 18 even in the event of a power failure. The super capacitor may include an electrolytic double layer capacitor, a pseudo capacitor, or a combination thereof.

[0139] Supercapacitors advantageously provide high energy density, high output current capability, and no memory effect; in addition, supercapacitors are small in size and easy to integrate, have an extended temperature range, long life, and can withstand a very high number of charging cycles. Supercapacitors are non-toxic and do not pose a risk of causing explosion or fire, and are therefore suitable for use in hazardous conditions, such as in automotive applications.

[0140] The backup energy source 320 also includes a charging module 324, a balancing module 325, and a boost module 326. The charging module 324 is electrically coupled to the ultracapacitor bank 322 and is configured to recharge the ultracapacitor bank 322 from the battery bank voltage Vbatt whenever power from the primary power source (e.g., the battery bank 234) is available, so that the same ultracapacitor bank 322 can provide full energy storage for emergency situations and compensate for any leakage current.

[0141] The balancing module 325 is electrically coupled to the supercapacitor group 322 and is configured to ensure that the two supercapacitor cells have a desired battery voltage value, in particular, have the same battery voltage value during operation (to achieve a balanced operating condition). The balancing module 325 also prevents the supercapacitor cells from having a battery voltage that exceeds a maximum desired battery voltage level, thereby protecting the supercapacitor from overcharging.

[0142] The boost module 326 receives at its input the supercapacitor voltage Vsc generated by the supercapacitor bank 322, and is configured to boost (i.e., increase) the value of the supercapacitor voltage to a standard automotive voltage (e.g., 9V to 16V) and provide sufficient output current capability to drive a standard automotive electric motor, such as the power release motor 88 of the closing latch assembly 18. In practice, the supercapacitor voltage Vsc may be too low to provide an effective backup power source to directly drive the power release motor 88 in an emergency situation, such as when the power supply from the main power source of the motor vehicle 10 is lost or insufficient.

[0143] Therefore, the boost module 326 provides a boosted voltage Vboost as a function of the supercapacitor voltage Vsc at its output (which is also the output of the backup energy source 320). The boosted voltage Vboost is then received by the output module of the electronic control circuit 310, which includes, for example, an integrated H-bridge module 327, the output of which drives the power release motor 88 of the closed latch assembly 18.

[0144] The backup energy source 320 also includes a diagnostic module 328, which is operably coupled to the ultracapacitor group 322 and is configured to monitor the health status of the ultracapacitor by, for example, measuring the voltage value, capacitance value and internal equivalent resistance (DCR-direct current resistance) of the ultracapacitor during the charging process and based on the same charging process.

[0145] The temperature sensor 329 is configured to monitor the operating temperature of the ultracapacitor group 322 and is coupled to the diagnostic module 328 to provide detected temperature information; for example, the temperature sensor 329 may include an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) resistor arranged near the ultracapacitor group 322.

[0146] The diagnostic module 328 is operably coupled to the control unit 321 to provide diagnostic information to the control unit, which diagnostic information includes, for example, the value of the supercapacitor voltage Vsc. In a possible embodiment not shown, the diagnostic module 328 can be implemented in the control unit 321 as a diagnostic routine run by its microprocessor or microcontroller. Similarly, the diagnostic module 328 can be configured to detect the internal series resistance (DCR) and capacitance (C) of the backup energy source as diagnostic information. Therefore, Fig.13 The control unit 321 includes a power release function that includes monitoring the latch sensor, controlling the lock motor, and controlling the motor driver (using the auxiliary motor driver 236) in normal mode as well as in emergency mode (ie, crash operation).

[0147] Fig.14 is a block diagram of another electronic control circuit 310' that can be used to close the latch assembly 18. Although the electronic control circuit 310' is very similar in operation to the above Fig.13 , but the latch function of the control unit 321 (e.g., latch controller 238) is reduced. Specifically, the latch controller 238 does not monitor the latch sensor (e.g., position sensor 315d). In addition, the latch controller 238 does not control the lock motor except for collision unlocking. The latch controller 238 controls the auxiliary motor driver 236 only in emergency mode (i.e., standby / collision mode). In contrast, the latch function of the door node 224 (basic controller 232) is enhanced and includes the additional connections shown (e.g., receiving signals from the position sensor 315d and the lock sensor 315c, rather than receiving signals from the control unit 321 or latch controller 238 that receive these signals). In more detail, the basic controller 232 of the door node 224 monitors the latch sensor, controls the unlocking function, and controls the basic motor driver 227 in normal mode and optionally in a powered collision mode (during a collision, power from the battery pack 234 is still available for the door node 224).

[0148] Figures 15 to 21 248 and the outer switch 250 may include a user interface 350 for providing the door open signal 256. It should be understood that the user interface 350 may include various other components, such as, but not limited to, a key fob and / or other control switches or buttons on the door 226 or elsewhere in the motor vehicle 10. Fig.16 As shown, the collision signal 247 is provided to both the primary controller (e.g., the door node 224) and the secondary controller (e.g., the latch controller 238) to allow both to coordinate control of the power release motor 88 in response to the door open signal 256 from the user interface 350. Specifically, Fig.17 In the embodiment, the door open signal 256 is transmitted from the user interface 350 to the primary electronic control unit 232 (i.e., the door node controller) and the auxiliary control unit 240 (of the latch controller 238). Figures 16 to 19 As shown, the main power voltage level and power from the main power source (e.g., battery pack 234) are provided to the backup energy source 320 via the main power voltage level line 352. In addition, the main power voltage level and power from the main power source (e.g., battery pack 234) are provided to the motor driver 227 of the gate node 224 via the second main power voltage level line 353. Fig. 20 As best shown in FIG. 2 , the primary electronic control unit 232 (i.e., the door node controller) and the auxiliary control unit 240 are both coupled directly to the crash sensor 315 b or to the BCM 244 to receive the crash signal 247. In addition, the main power voltage level line 352 is connected to the auxiliary control unit 240 to receive the power and main power voltage levels. Fig.21 Also shown is a BCM 244 in communication with a base electronic control unit 232 (i.e., a door node controller). The BCM is additionally coupled to a user warning device 354 for servicing the closing latch assembly 18 based on latch diagnostic information 355 transmitted from the base electronic control unit 232 (e.g., a warning light or digital readout on the dashboard). In more detail, the base electronic control unit 232 receives the backup energy status from the auxiliary control unit 240 (of the latch controller 238) via a latch diagnostic line 356. The auxiliary control unit 240 in turn receives the diagnostic status (e.g., from and determined by the diagnostic module 328) from the backup energy source 320 via a status line 358. In addition, in order for the base electronic control unit 232 to send the latch diagnostic information 355 to the BCM 244, the base electronic control unit also receives a latch status signal 360 from a latch sensor (e.g., position sensor 315d).

[0149] Figure 22 to Figure 24 A block diagram of the system 200 on a door (eg, front passenger door 226) is shown. Figure 22 to Figure 24 And return the reference Figure 11 to Figure 12 as well as Fig.14 , the door 226 includes a closure latch assembly 18 having a powered release motor 88. Fig.23, the door 226 also includes a primary electronic control unit 232 (i.e., a door node controller) electrically coupled to the power release motor 88. In addition, the door 226 includes an auxiliary control unit 240 (i.e., a latch control) electrically coupled to the power release motor 88. The primary electronic control unit or door node controller 232 is configured to control the power release motor 88 in a normal operating mode of the closed latch assembly 18. The latch controller 240 is configured to control the power release motor 88 in an emergency mode of the closed latch assembly 18. Fig.24 The primary power source (e.g., battery pack 234) is shown providing voltage Vin to the primary motor driver 227, as well as to the auxiliary control unit or latch control 240 and the backup energy source 320. In addition, the BCM 244 is coupled to the crash sensor 315b and provides a crash signal 247 to both the primary electronic control unit 232 (i.e., door node controller) and the auxiliary control unit 240.

[0150] Fig.25 The system 200 is shown operating in a normal mode of closing the latch assembly 18. A power source (e.g., a battery pack 234) provides power to the primary motor driver 227. Thus, the primary motor driver 227 can provide a primary control signal 228 to the power release motor 88 via the primary release motor drive line 229 (using the primary motor driver 227) in response to the door node controller 232 receiving the door open signal 256. Although the auxiliary control unit 240 also receives the door open signal 256, the auxiliary control unit 240 ignores the door open signal 256 because the power level from the battery pack 234 is normal and no collision signal 247 is sent from the BCM 244.

[0151] Fig.26 A system 200 is shown operating in an emergency mode of a closed latch assembly 18 in the event of a power loss at a door node 224. Although a power source (e.g., a battery pack 234) provides power to a primary motor driver 227, it is below the expected voltage level or is disconnected (i.e., an undervoltage condition). Therefore, the primary motor driver 227 is unable to provide a primary control signal 228 to the power release motor 88 via a primary release motor drive line 229 (using the primary motor driver 227) in response to the door node controller 232 receiving a door open signal 256. In more detail, the door node controller 232 is unable to act based on the door open signal 256 because the door node controller is not powered. However, the auxiliary control unit 240 also receives the door open signal 256, and therefore the auxiliary control unit 240 acts based on the door open signal 256 because the power level from the battery pack 234 is abnormal and / or a collision signal 247 is sent from the BCM 244.

[0152] Fig. 27The system 200 is shown operating in an emergency mode of the closed latch assembly 18 without power loss at the door node 224. The power source (e.g., the battery pack 234) provides power to the basic motor driver 227, which is not lower than the expected voltage level or is not disconnected (i.e., undervoltage condition). Therefore, the basic motor driver 227 can still provide the basic control signal 228 to the power release motor 88 via the basic release motor drive line 229 (using the basic motor driver 227) in response to the door node controller 232 receiving the door open signal 256. The door node controller 232 can act based on the door open signal 256 because the door node controller remains powered. Although the auxiliary control unit 240 also receives the door open signal 256, the auxiliary control unit 240 knows not to drive the power release motor 88 because the power level from the battery pack 234 is normal even if the collision signal 247 is sent from the BCM 244.

[0153] Fig.28 Another block diagram of the system 200 is shown, which includes additional details about the wiring. The inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250 associated with the first inside handle 252 and the first outside handle 254 of the front passenger door 226 are shown as being coupled to the door node 224 using an outside switch to door node line 362 for carrying a tag signal and an inside switch to door node line 364 for carrying a trigger (tig) signal. The inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250 are also coupled to the closing latch assembly 18 via an outside switch to latch line 366 for carrying an emergency tag signal and an inside switch to latch line 368 for carrying an emergency trigger signal. The system 200 also includes a tie-tie actuator 370 that is coupled to the door node 224 via a tie-tie motor drive line 372 for tethering the first passenger door 226 to the body 12 of the motor vehicle 10. The cinch actuator 370 may be included in the closure latch assembly 18 (not shown) or may be separate from the closure latch assembly 18 (e.g. Fig.28376). The system 200 also includes a tie-actuator reset switch 374 coupled to the door node 224 via a tie-actuator reset signal line 376. The primary electronic control unit 232 receives a latch state signal 360 from a latch sensor of the closing latch assembly 18, such as a pawl switch 378 (e.g., position sensor 315d) via a pawl signal line 380, a door ajar switch 382 via a door ajar signal line 384, and a reset switch 386 via a reset signal line 388, and a standby energy state from the auxiliary control unit 240 (of the latch controller 238), such as via a latch diagnostic line 356. As discussed, the primary controller (e.g., the door node 224) is configured to provide a primary control signal 228 to the powered release motor 88 via a primary release motor drive line 229 (using a primary motor driver 227).

[0154] The system also includes a door-to-body unit 390 coupled to the door node 224 via a door-to-body unit to door node collision line 392 for carrying a collision signal 247. The door-to-body unit 390 is also coupled to the door node 224 via a door-to-body unit to door node power line 394 for carrying power from a primary power source (e.g., the battery pack 234). Similarly, the door-to-body unit 390 is coupled to the closing latch assembly 18 via a door-to-body unit to latch collision line 396 for carrying a collision signal 247. The door-to-body unit 390 is also coupled to the closing latch assembly 18 via a door-to-body unit to latch power line 398 for carrying power from a primary power source (e.g., the battery pack 234). The door-to-body unit 390 is coupled to the BCM 244 via a BCM to door-to-body unit line 400 for carrying a collision signal 247 from the BCM 244. The door-to-body unit 390 is also coupled to the primary power source or battery pack 234 via a power-to-door-to-body unit line 402 for carrying power from the power source or battery pack 234 .

[0155] Fig.29A system 200 is shown having a closing latch assembly 18 and a door node 224 for controlling the closing latch assembly 18. The vehicle battery pack power connection is labeled 502a, the backup power connection is labeled 502b, the signal power supply connection is labeled 502c, the vehicle battery pack or boost output connection is labeled 502d, and the signal line is labeled 502e. A first door release switch circuit 504 is electrically connected to the closing latch assembly 18. Similarly, a second door release switch circuit 506 is electrically connected to the door node 224. The door system 200 also includes an inside switch 248 associated with the inside handle 252 of the door 226 and an outside switch 250 associated with the outside handle 254 of the door 226. The inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250 are both coupled to the first door release switch circuit 504 and the second door release switch circuit 506. In addition, the closing latch assembly 18 has a backup energy source 320 for emergency situations. The door node 224 is electrically coupled to the closing latch assembly 18 for controlling the closing latch assembly 18 under normal conditions. In other words, the closing latch assembly 18 is a slave of the door node 224 and receives a power release command or a release command from the door node 224 during normal conditions. However, when during an emergency condition (no power or collision), the closing latch assembly 18 will directly read the release switches (i.e., the inside switch 248 and the outside switch 250) through the first door release switch circuit 504.

[0156] The gate node 224 includes a latch read circuit 508 connected to the cinch actuator home switch 374 via the cinch home signal line 376. The latch read circuit 508 is coupled to the door ajar switch 382 via the door ajar signal line 384. Both the door ajar switch 382 and the cinch actuator home switch 374 are connected to the gate node ground 510 of the gate node 224. The input of the outer switch 250 is connected to the analog-to-digital input 514 of the gate node 224 through the outer switch read resistor 512. The output of the outer switch 250 is also connected to the gate node ground 510. The input of the inner switch 248 is connected to the battery stack node 520 and the analog-to-digital input 514 of the gate node 224 through the inner switch read resistor 516 and the switch pull-up resistor 518. The outer switch read resistor 512 is also connected to the battery stack node 520 of the gate node 224 through the switch pull-up resistor 518. The output of the inner switch 248 is also connected to the gate node ground 510 .

[0157] The gate node 224 also includes two transistor pairs 522, 524. A signal line 502e is connected from the center tap of one of the transistor pairs 522 to the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 (latch controller 238) of the closed latch assembly 18 through a data input circuit 526 for data input. The vehicle battery pack power connection 502a is connected from the center tap of the other transistor pair 524 of the transistor pair to the battery pack input circuit 528 of the closed latch assembly 18. The battery pack input circuit 528 is connected to the vehicle ground 530 through the other vehicle battery pack power connection 502a, to the power supply selector circuit 532 of the closed latch assembly 18, to the backup energy source 320 through the backup power connection 502b, and to the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 through the signal line 502e and the battery pack reading circuit 534. The power supply selector circuit 532 is also connected to the auxiliary motor driver 236, the backup energy source 320 and the ECU power management circuit 536 through a separate vehicle battery pack or boost output connection 502d. The ECU power management circuit 536 is then connected to the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 and the release switch reading circuit 538 of the closing latch assembly 18 via the signal power supply connection 502c. The release switch reading circuit 538 is additionally connected to the backup energy source 320 via the backup power connection 502b and to the outboard switch 250 and the auxiliary electronic control unit 240 via the signal line 502e. The auxiliary electronic control unit 240 is also connected to both the outboard switch 250 and the release switch reading circuit 538 via the signal line 502e, the data output circuit 540 and the data output resistor 542.

[0158] Thus, the first gate release switch circuit 504 includes one or more signal lines 502e coupled to the inner switch 248 and the outer switch 250 and the release switch read circuit 538. The second gate release switch circuit 506 includes one or more signal lines 502e. The outer switch read resistor 512 and the inner switch read resistor 516 are coupled to the inner switch 248 and the outer switch 250, the gate node ground 510, the analog-to-digital input terminal 514 of the gate node 224, the switch pull-up resistor 518, and the battery node 520 of the gate node 224.

[0159] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30BA possible leakage path 544 of the system 200 according to the present invention is shown, which shows a possible leakage path of the system when the gate node 224 is not powered. Specifically, when the gate node 224 is not powered, the possible leakage path 544 starts from the backup energy source 320 and passes through the gate node 224. In order to reduce the leakage path 544, the switch pull-up resistor 518 can be selected to be higher than 47kΩ to ensure the performance of the power release function after being disconnected from the battery pack for 24 hours. However, a high pull-up value may affect the ability to detect which switch 248, 250 is activated (i.e., it is necessary to avoid opening from the outside when the closing latch assembly 18 is locked or in a locked state). In the case where one of the inner switch 248 and the outer switch 250 is forced to remain activated (i.e., turned on), it is impossible to turn off the backup energy source 320. Therefore, the performance of the power source release function after being disconnected from the battery pack for 24 hours cannot be guaranteed.

[0160] Fig.31 A system including a closure latch assembly, a door node, and having alternative inside and outside switches according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.29 , the inner switch 248 and the outer switch 250 are each coupled to the first gate release switch circuit 504 and the second gate release switch circuit 506, respectively. However, instead of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' being single-pole single-throw switches, the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' are each double-pole single-throw switches to electrically isolate the first gate release circuit 504 from the second gate release switch circuit 506. One of the inputs of each of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' is connected to the closed latch ground 546 of the closed latch assembly 18 (i.e., now part of the second gate release switch circuit 506). The other of the inputs of the outer switch 250' is connected to the outer switch read resistor 512. Similarly, the other of the inputs of the inner switch 248' is connected to the inner switch read resistor 516. One of the output terminals of each of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' is connected to the gate node ground 510, and the other output terminal of each of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' is connected to the release switch reading circuit 538 of the closed latch assembly 18. Therefore, the electricity flowing in the first gate release switch circuit 504 does not flow in the second gate release switch circuit 506. Although the gate node 224 is electrically coupled to the closed latch assembly 18 for example Fig.29As shown, the closing latch assembly 18 is controlled under normal conditions, but the door node 224 and the closing latch assembly 18 are electrically isolated to prevent electricity from the backup energy source 320 from flowing to the door node 224 under emergency conditions. The inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' may also be provided with or without additional diagnostic capabilities based on application requirements and safety analysis. In more detail, one contact or input end of each of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' is dedicated to the door node 224, while one contact or output end of each of the inner switch 248' and the outer switch 250' is dedicated to the closing latch assembly 18. Therefore, the problems associated with the reading and energy leakage from the backup energy source 320 discussed above are avoided. In addition, changes to three additional pins and wiring harnesses in the connector of the closing latch assembly 18 are avoided.

[0161] Figures 32 to 40 2 shows another block diagram of the system 200, which illustrates the operation of the system 200 under normal conditions and emergency conditions. Fig.32 , the door system 200 shown is almost identical to Fig.28 226 and includes a latch controller 238 and a backup energy source 320 for emergency situations. The door node 224 is electrically coupled to the closing latch assembly 18 and has a door node controller 232, which is configured to control the closing latch assembly 18 under normal conditions and emergency conditions. The closing latch assembly 18 is powered by the main power source 234 under normal conditions and is configured to supply power to the door node 224 from the backup energy source 320 during an emergency. The inside switches 248, 248' and the outside switches 250, 250' (associated with the inside handle 252 and the outside handle 254 of the door 226) are coupled to the door node 224 via the inside switch to the door node line 364 transmitting the IS signal and the outside switch to the door node line 362 transmitting the OS signal, respectively. The inside switches 248, 248' and the outside switches 250, 250' are also electrically coupled to the latch controller 238 of the closing latch assembly 18 via the outside switch to latch line 366 for carrying the emergency tag signal (i.e., the emergency OS signal) and the inside switch to latch line 368 for carrying the emergency trigger signal (i.e., the emergency IS signal), and the collision signal 247 is delivered to the closing latch assembly 18 via the collision line 396. Therefore, both the closing latch assembly 18 and the door node 224 have duplicate IS and OS switch lines. The emergency IS signal and the emergency OS signal cause the closing latch assembly 18 to activate the backup energy source 320 in the emergency mode.

[0162] The backup power supply activation signal is delivered from the closing latch assembly 18 to the door node 224 via the backup power supply activation line 702. The backup power supply activation signal is used to notify the door node 224 that it is powered by the backup energy source 320, and to notify when the supply of power from the backup energy source 320 is shut off. The backup power supply activation signal is transmitted between the closing latch assembly 18 and the door node 224 via the backup supply activation line 703. Diagnostics of the backup energy source 320 are transmitted between the latch controller 238 and the door node controller 232 via the backup energy diagnostic and status data line 704. Backup energy diagnostics are also transmitted between the door node controller 232 and the body control module 244 via the BCM backup energy diagnostic line 705.

[0163] like Figure 33 to Figure 36 As shown in the operation of the door system 200 in FIG. 1 , the closing latch assembly 18 is powered by the primary power source 234 in a normal mode or condition, and the latch controller 238 can be configured to detect the loss of the primary power source 234. The latch controller 238 is also configured to detect a collision signal 247 (e.g., from a vehicle body control module 244 that communicates with the latch closing assembly 18). The latch controller 238 is also configured to detect user activation of at least one of the inside switch 248, 248' and the outside switch 250, 250'. The latch controller 238 prevents power from being supplied to the door node 224 from the backup energy source 320 until at least one of the activation of at least one of the inside switch 248, 248' and the outside switch 250, 250' is detected and the loss of the primary power source 234 is detected and the collision signal 247 is received. In more detail, the closing latch assembly 18 also includes a backup energy control switch 706, which is coupled between the backup energy source 320 and the gate node 224 and is connected to the latch controller 238 and controlled by the latch controller to selectively allow and permit power to be supplied to the gate node 224 from the backup energy source 320. Because power is not immediately supplied to the gate node 224 when power loss is detected, but only after the inner switch 248, 248' and the outer switch 250, 250' are detected, power can be saved. The gate node 224 is also powered by the main power source 234 under normal conditions, and the gate node controller 232 is configured to control the latch control function 708 (i.e., door management) of the closing latch assembly 18 under normal conditions and non-latch-related functions 710 different from the latch control function 708.

[0164] Therefore, in Fig.33, the latch controller 238 does not detect the collision signal 247 and keeps the backup energy control switch 706 disabled (i.e., open) to prevent power from flowing from the backup energy source 320 to the gate node 224. The latch controller 238 functions in a normal mode to perform diagnostics on the backup energy source 320, while the latch control function 708 is controlled by the gate node controller 232 of the gate node 224. Fig.34 In the embodiment, the backup power source switch 706 remains disabled, the latch controller 238 continues to perform diagnostics on the backup energy source 320, while the latch control function 708 is controlled by the gate node controller 232 of the gate node 224 and the collision signal 247 is sent to the latch controller 238 and the gate node controller 232. Then, in Fig.35 In FIG. 2 , the latch controller 238 detects a crash signal 247 or a power loss during an emergency condition. The latch controller 238 is powered by the backup energy source 320. Fig.36 , the latch controller 238 controls the backup energy control switch 706 to supply power from the backup energy source 320 to the gate node 224 .

[0165] Reference Fig.37 and Fig.38, the door node controller 232 is configured to detect a collision signal 247 from a vehicle body control module 244 in communication with the door node 224. The door node controller 232 also detects the loss of the main power source 234, and in response to detecting one of the collision signal 247 and the loss of the main power source 234, enables the latch control function 708 of the closing latch assembly 18 in the door node emergency mode while disabling non-latch related functions 710. Therefore, the door node 224 (e.g., the door node controller 232) detects whether the collision signal 247 is present on the collision signal 247 line or there is no power from the power source 234, and senses that power is being supplied from the backup energy source 320 and switches to the emergency mode. In the emergency mode, the door node 224 will disable all non-latch related functions 710 and only enable the latch control function 708. In more detail, the door node 224 is electrically coupled to at least one of the window regulator 712, the power door actuator 714, the door reminder 716, the light and alarm 718, and the obstacle detection sensor 720, and the door node controller 232 is configured to control at least one of the window regulator 712, the power door actuator 714, the door reminder 716, the light and alarm 718, and the obstacle detection sensor 720 to a non-latch-related function 710 under normal conditions. Therefore, the door node controller 232 controls the latch function of the closing latch assembly 18 under normal conditions and emergency conditions, but disables the non-latch-related function 710 (e.g., the window regulator 712, the power door actuator 714, the door reminder 716, the light and alarm 718, and the obstacle detection sensor 720) under emergency conditions. Therefore, the door node 224 knows when it is powered by the backup energy source 320 so as to cut off all loads not related to the closing latch assembly 18. The backup energy diagnostic and status data line 704 allows such information to be communicated between the gate node controller 232 and the latch controller 238.

[0166] Reference Fig.39As described above, the closing latch assembly 18 includes a power release motor 88 for releasing the door 226. The activation of the inside handle signal or the outside handle signal is received by both the latch controller 238 (i.e., the emergency IS signal and the emergency OS signal) and the door node controller 232 (i.e., the IS signal and the OS signal). The door node 224 also includes a supercapacitor discharge switch 722 coupled between the backup energy source 320 and the power release motor 88. The supercapacitor discharge switch 722 is configured to regulate the power sent from the backup energy source 320 to the power release motor 88. The door node controller 232 is also coupled to the supercapacitor discharge switch 722, and is also configured to control the supercapacitor discharge switch 722 to regulate the power from the backup energy source 320, and has priority control of the power release motor 88 during an emergency condition (i.e., in an emergency mode). The door system 200 also includes the supercapacitor discharge switch 722 coupled to the door node 224 for the tie-down actuator 370 for tying the closed door 226. Therefore, the gate node controller 232 is also configured to: control the supercapacitor discharge switch 722 to regulate power from the backup energy source 320 to the tie pull actuator 370; and use the power from the backup energy source 320 to control the tie pull actuator 370 during an emergency situation. Therefore, the gate node controller 232 will have priority control and control the power release motor 88 using the power supplied from the backup energy source 320, which is regulated (e.g., pulse width modulation (PWM)) in the gate node 224. For example, the gate node controller 232 will also use the power from the backup energy source 320 to control the automatic tie pull return.

[0167] Now refer to Fig.40And as described above, the closing latch assembly 18 also includes an auxiliary motor driver 236 coupled to the latch controller 238 and the backup power supply 320 and the power release motor 88 for supplying a control signal 237 to the power release motor 88. If the closing latch assembly 18 does not release after receiving an IS / OS switch release signal (i.e., an IS signal and an OS signal indicating activation of at least one of the inside (IS) switch 248, 248' and the outside (OS) switch 250, 250') from the latch controller for a period of time, then the latch controller 238 will assume that the door node controller 232 is unavailable (e.g., a wire break / circuit problem, etc.). In other words, the latch controller 238 is also configured to determine whether the closing latch assembly 18 is released within a predetermined release time period after activation of at least one of the inside switch 248, 248' and the outside switch 250, 250'. The latch controller 238 is also configured to, in response to the closing latch assembly 18 not being released within a predetermined release time period after activation of at least one of the inside switches 248, 248' and the outside switches 250, 250', assume that the door node controller 232 is unavailable and use the auxiliary motor driver 236 to continue to control the power release motor 88 using power from the backup energy source 320. Therefore, the latch controller 238 will continue to control the power release motor 88 internally using the backup energy source 320 via the internally controlled power circuit (e.g., PWM auxiliary motor driver 236). Compared to the case where the backup energy source 320 is only provided in the door node, this provides additional release control redundancy for release activation in the event that a collision causes damage to the door node 224 or a line to the closing latch assembly 18 is cut.

[0168] For the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the embodiment is provided. The foregoing description of the embodiment is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to the particular embodiment, but in the applicable case, even if not specifically shown or described, these individual elements or features are also interchangeable and can be used for selected embodiments. These individual elements or features can also be changed in many ways. Such changes should not be considered as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0169] Regarding the implementation methods including the above embodiments, the following technical solutions are also disclosed:

[0170] Solution 1. A closing latch assembly, comprising:

[0171] a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet being movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position, the pawl being movable between a ratchet retaining position, in which the ratchet is retained in the striker capture position, and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position;

[0172] a powered actuator operably coupled to a drive train including a first driven gear and a second driven gear, the second driven gear having an actuation feature fixed to the second driven gear; and

[0173] The actuating feature is operably coupled to a latch release mechanism of the pawl, the latch release mechanism having a lost motion connection with the actuating feature, wherein rotation of the gear train energized by the power actuator causes the actuating feature to move in a lost motion connection with the latch release mechanism before the latch release mechanism moves the pawl from the ratchet holding position toward the ratchet releasing position.

[0174] Option 2. A closing latch assembly according to Option 1, wherein the latch release mechanism includes a linkage arm that operably couples the pawl to the second driven gear.

[0175] Option 3. A closure latch assembly according to Option 2, wherein the lost motion connection is located between the actuation feature and the linkage arm.

[0176] Option 4. A closing latch assembly according to Option 3, wherein the linkage arm has a slot extending between a first drive end and a second drive end, and the actuating feature is disposed in the slot to slideably move between the first drive end and the second drive end.

[0177] Option 5. The closing latch assembly according to Option 4, wherein the first driven gear has a driven pinion fixed to the first driven gear, the driven pinion meshing with the second driven gear.

[0178] Option 6. A closing latch assembly according to Option 5, wherein the power actuator has a motor shaft, wherein a worm gear is fixed to the motor shaft, and the worm gear is meshed with the first driven gear.

[0179] Option 7. A closed latch assembly according to Option 6, wherein the worm wheel and the first driven gear have a first gear ratio, the driven pinion and the second driven gear have a second gear ratio, and the worm wheel and the second driven gear have a third gear ratio, the second gear ratio is greater than the first gear ratio, and the third gear ratio is greater than the second gear ratio.

[0180] Option 8. A closing latch assembly according to Option 1, wherein the motor shaft extends along a first axis, the first driven gear rotates around a second axis, and the second driven gear rotates around a third axis, and the first axis extends transversely relative to the second axis and the third axis.

[0181] Option 9. The closing latch assembly of Option 1, wherein the pawl includes a first leg for coupling with the latch release mechanism, and a second leg for releasably engaging with the ratchet.

[0182] Option 10. The closing latch assembly according to Option 9, wherein the length of the first pawl leg segment is greater than the length of the second pawl leg segment.

[0183] Option 11. A closing latch assembly according to Option 9, wherein the first leg is adapted to be moved by a manual latch release mechanism.

[0184] Embodiment 12. The closing latch assembly of embodiment 9, wherein a roller is positioned between the second leg and the ratchet.

[0185] Solution 13. A closing latch assembly, comprising:

[0186] a ratchet and a single pawl, the ratchet being movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position, the pawl being movable between a ratchet retaining position, in which the ratchet is retained in the striker capture position, and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position; and

[0187] A powered actuator is operably coupled to a powered release chain having at least three torque multiplication stages and an output coupled to the pawl for moving the pawl from the ratchet holding position to the ratchet releasing position.

[0188] Option 14. A closing latch assembly according to Option 13, wherein the power release chain includes at least one of at least one crank mechanism and a gear train that provides the at least three torque multiplication stages.

[0189] Option 15. A closing latch assembly according to Option 13, wherein one of the at least three torque multiplication stages is a variable torque multiplication stage.

[0190] Option 16. A closing latch assembly according to Option 13, wherein the gear train provides at least three torque multiplication stages and the at least one crank mechanism provides at least one additional torque multiplication stage.

[0191] Option 17. A closing latch assembly according to Option 15, wherein the at least one crank mechanism includes a crank mechanism and a bell crank.

[0192] Option 18. The closure latch assembly of Option 16, wherein the pawl is configured as the bell crank.

[0193] Option 19. The closing latch assembly according to Option 13 further includes a roller located between the pawl and the ratchet.

[0194] Solution 20. A closing latch assembly comprising:

[0195] a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet being movable between a striker capture position and a striker release position, the pawl being movable between a ratchet retaining position, in which the ratchet is retained in the striker capture position, and a ratchet release position, in which the ratchet is biased toward the striker release position; and

[0196] A powered actuator operably coupled to a multi-stage powered release chain having at least three torque multiplication stages, wherein each stage has an input and an output, wherein application of a force at the input causes a corresponding force at the output, and wherein the output from one stage drives the next stage in the release chain to release the pawl from the ratchet.

[0197] Option 21. A closing latch assembly according to Option 20, wherein the multi-stage power release chain includes a gear train and at least one crank mechanism.

[0198] Option 22. A closing latch assembly according to Option 21, wherein the at least one crank mechanism is one of a crank and a bell crank.

[0199] Option 23. A closing latch assembly according to Option 22, wherein the pawl is configured as a part of the bell crank.

Claims

1. A door, comprising: a closure latch assembly including a powered release motor; a base controller electrically coupled to the power release motor; an auxiliary controller electrically coupled to the power release motor; The base controller is configured to control the powered release motor in a normal operating mode of the closure latch assembly; as well as The auxiliary controller is configured to control the powered release motor in an emergency mode of the closure latch assembly.

2. The door of claim 1, further comprising a first door release switch circuit electrically connected to the closing latch assembly and a second door release switch circuit electrically connected to the base controller, wherein: The electricity flowing in the first gate release switch circuit does not flow in the second gate release switch circuit.

3. The door of claim 2, further comprising an inside switch associated with an inside handle of the door and an outside switch associated with an outside handle of the door, wherein: The inner switch and the outer switch are each coupled to the first gate release switch circuit and the second gate release switch circuit, and each is a double-pole single-throw switch to electrically isolate the first gate release switch circuit from the second gate release switch circuit.

4. The door according to claim 3, wherein: The closure latch assembly has a backup energy source for use in the emergency mode, wherein the base controller and the closure latch assembly are electrically isolated to prevent electricity from flowing from the backup energy source to the base controller during the emergency mode.

5. The door according to claim 4, wherein: The closure latch assembly is powered by a primary power source during the normal operating mode and by the backup energy source during the emergency mode, wherein the backup energy source is prevented from supplying power to the base controller until activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch is detected and at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and a crash signal is received.

6. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The closing latch assembly is powered by a primary power source during the normal operating mode and by a backup energy source during the emergency mode, wherein the backup energy source is prevented from supplying power to the base controller until at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and a crash signal is received.

7. The door according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The primary controller is a gate node controller and the secondary controller is a latch controller.

8. A door system for a door, the door system comprising: a closure latch assembly; a base controller for controlling the closure latch assembly; a first door release switch circuit electrically connected to the closing latch assembly; as well as A second gate release switch circuit is electrically connected to the base controller, wherein electricity flowing in the first gate release switch circuit does not flow in the second gate release switch circuit.

9. The door system of claim 8, further comprising an inside switch associated with an inside handle of the door and an outside switch associated with an outside handle of the door, wherein: The inner switch and the outer switch are each coupled to the first gate release switch circuit and the second gate release switch circuit, and each is a double-pole single-throw switch to electrically isolate the first gate release switch circuit from the second gate release switch circuit.

10. The door system according to claim 9, wherein: The closure latch assembly is powered by a primary power source during a normal operating mode and by a backup energy source during an emergency mode, wherein the backup energy source is prevented from supplying power to the base controller until activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch is detected and at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and a crash signal is received.

11. The door system according to claim 8, wherein: The closing latch assembly is powered by a primary power source during a normal operating mode and by a backup energy source during an emergency mode, wherein the backup energy source is prevented from supplying power to the base controller until at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and a crash signal is received.

12. A door system comprising: a closure latch assembly having a backup energy source for use in an emergency mode; as well as a base controller electrically coupled to the closure latch assembly for controlling the closure latch assembly under normal conditions, wherein the base controller and the closure latch assembly are electrically isolated to prevent electricity from flowing from the backup energy source to the base controller during the emergency mode.

13. The door system of claim 12, wherein: The closure latch assembly is powered by a primary power source during a normal operating mode and is powered by the backup energy source during the emergency mode.

14. The door system of claim 13, further comprising an inside switch associated with an inside handle of the door and an outside switch associated with an outside handle of the door, wherein: The backup energy source is prevented from supplying power to the primary controller until activation of at least one of the inboard switch and the outboard switch is detected and at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and a crash signal is received.

15. The door system of claim 14, further comprising a first door release switch circuit electrically connected to the closing latch assembly and a second door release switch circuit electrically connected to the base controller, wherein: The inner switch and the outer switch are each coupled to the first gate release switch circuit and the second gate release switch circuit to electrically isolate the first gate release switch circuit from the second gate release switch circuit.

16. A door system for a door, the door system comprising: a closure latch assembly for selectively securing the door and including a latch controller and having a backup energy source for use in an emergency situation; as well as A door node, the door node is electrically coupled to the closing latch assembly and has a door node controller, the door node controller is configured to control the closing latch assembly under both normal conditions and the emergency condition, wherein the closing latch assembly is powered by a main power source under the normal condition and is configured to supply power to the door node from the backup energy source during the emergency condition.

17. The door system of claim 16, further comprising an inside switch associated with the inside handle of the door and an outside switch associated with the outside handle of the door, the inside switch and the outside switch being electrically coupled to a latch controller of the closure latch assembly, the closure latch assembly being powered by a primary power source under the normal condition, and wherein, The latch controller is configured to: detecting a loss of the primary power source; detecting a crash signal from a body control module in communication with the closure latch assembly; detecting activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch by a user; and The supply of power from the alternate energy source to the door node is prevented until activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch is detected and at least one of a loss of the primary power source is detected and the crash signal is received.

18. The door system of claim 17, wherein: The door node is powered by the main power source under the normal condition, the door node controller is configured to control both a latch control function and a non-latch related function different from the latch control function of the closure latch assembly under the normal condition, and the door node controller is configured to: detecting a collision signal from the vehicle body control module in communication with the door node; detecting a loss of the primary power source; and A latch control function of the closure latch assembly is enabled in a door node emergency mode in response to detecting one of the collision signal and the loss of the primary power source, while non-latch related functions are disabled.

19. The door system of claim 18, wherein: The door node is electrically coupled to at least one of a window regulator, a power door actuator, a door reminder, a light and an alarm, and an obstacle detection sensor, and the door node controller is configured to control at least one of the window regulator, the power door actuator, the door reminder, the light and an alarm, and the obstacle detection sensor as the non-latch related function under the normal condition.

20. The door system of claim 17, wherein: The closure latch assembly includes a power release motor for releasing the door, and the door node further includes a supercapacitor discharge switch coupled between the backup energy source and the power release motor, the supercapacitor discharge switch being configured to regulate power from the backup energy source to the power release motor, and the door node controller is coupled to the supercapacitor discharge switch and is further configured to: control the supercapacitor discharge switch to regulate power from the backup energy source to the power release motor and have priority control over the power release motor during the emergency condition; as well as The door system also includes a tie-down actuator coupled to a supercapacitor discharge switch of the door node for tying the door closed, and the door node controller is further configured to control the supercapacitor discharge switch to regulate power from the backup energy source to the tie-down actuator, and to control the tie-down actuator using power from the backup energy source during the emergency condition.

21. The door system of claim 17, wherein: The closure latch assembly further includes an auxiliary motor driver coupled to the latch controller and the backup energy source and the powered release motor for supplying a control signal to the powered release motor, and the latch controller is further configured to: determining whether the closure latch assembly is released within a predetermined release time period after activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch; and In response to the closing latch assembly not being released within the predetermined release time period after activation of at least one of the inside switch and the outside switch, assuming that the door node controller is unavailable, and using the auxiliary motor drive to continue to control the power release motor using power from the backup energy source.

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