Automobile electronic door lock and control method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to an automobile electronic door lock and a control method thereof, and relates to the field of electronic locks. According to the technical scheme, the functions of electric suction, electric unlocking, electric locking and unlocking, electric child locking and the like are organically integrated with the mechanical functions of emergency unlocking, emergency child locking, double-pull door opening, lock cylinder control and the like, and the problems that in the prior art, the function is single, the power-off emergency capacity is insufficient, and signal feedback is lagged are solved; and accurate feedback of the lock state is achieved through collaborative design of a connecting rod and a signal plate, safety protection of a child lock and locking is enhanced in an electric and mechanical dual-drive mode, meanwhile, multiple configuration selections are supported by means of a modular structure, and the requirements of automobile intelligence for multifunctional and high-reliability door locks are met in a compact space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electronic lock technology, and in particular to an electronic door lock for automobiles and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of automotive intelligence and electronics, electronically controlled door locks have become an industry trend due to their simple and compact mechanical structure and convenient operation. However, existing electric door locks generally suffer from the drawback of limited functionality: for example, most products only have basic electric unlocking and locking functions and lack an emergency power failure mechanism. When a power failure occurs during the locking process, the door lock is easily left in a half-locked state and cannot be manually unlocked, posing a safety hazard. In terms of child protection, traditional designs often use a single mechanical or electric child protection function, which is difficult to meet the protection needs in different scenarios. Moreover, the locking status and signal feedback are often delayed or misaligned, making it impossible for users to accurately grasp the actual status of the door lock.

[0003] Furthermore, the existing linkage mechanism design of electric door locks has significant shortcomings: on the one hand, the coordination between mechanical and electronic control modules is poor. For example, the linkage logic between the lock cylinder control, emergency rocker arm, and electric actuator is loose, making multi-mode unlocking impossible. On the other hand, the signal feedback system lacks redundancy design, and signal interruption is prone to occur during the transition from half-lock to full-lock. For instance, during the ratchet pushing the signal plate to reset, no linkage is set to assist in maintaining the signal, causing the controller to misjudge the lock status. These technical bottlenecks not only limit the security and reliability of door locks but also make it difficult to meet users' needs for multifunctional and highly integrated automotive accessories. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an electronic door lock for automobiles and its control method, so as to solve the problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows: In a first aspect, the present invention provides an electronic door lock for automobiles, comprising a cover plate, a lock body, and a base plate, wherein an installation space is formed between the cover plate and the base plate, and the electronic door lock for automobiles further includes: An actuator, the output gear of which meshes with a gear; A toothed plate meshes with the gear and is riveted to the lock body via a ratchet shaft, a ratchet, and a first connecting rod. A spring is provided on the ratchet shaft to provide the ratchet with an unlocking torque and the first connecting rod with a clockwise torque. The unlocking plate and the pawl are riveted to the lock body via a pawl shaft. A spring is provided on the pawl shaft to provide locking torque to the pawl and counterclockwise torque to the unlocking plate. The second link is rotatably mounted on the lock body. It is linked to the locking gear through the first linkage part, to the third link through the second linkage part, and to the emergency rocker arm through the third linkage part. The fourth link, which is riveted to the cover plate via the first pivot, is used to transmit the rotational power of the unlocking plate; A clutch arm, rotatably mounted to the lock body, is limited by a counterclockwise torque at a first limiting portion for disengaging from the ratchet during engagement; and The first push shaft, which is riveted to the unlocking plate, is used to push the clutch arm.

[0006] In one possible implementation, the automotive electronic door lock further includes: A zero-position signal rod, which is rotatably mounted on the cover plate and limited by spring torque at the second limiting part, is used to detect the zero-position state of the toothed plate; A signal board is riveted to a base plate via a second rotating shaft. A spring on the second rotating shaft always provides clockwise torque to the signal board. The signal board provides feedback on the locked state via a first switch and a second switch. The fifth link, which is rotatably mounted on the lock body, is used to press against the signal plate when the door lock is in the process of being half-locked to fully locked, so as to maintain the feedback of the half-lock signal; A locking switch, mounted on the actuator, is used to detect the position of the locking gear; and A child lock switch is installed on the actuator to detect the position of the child lock gear.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the actuator output torque drives the gear to rotate through the output gear, and the gear plate links the first connecting rod through the cooperation of its arc groove with the limiting post.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the automotive electronic door lock further includes: The sixth link is mounted on the unlocking plate and subjected to a counterclockwise spring torque; The toothed plate pushes the fourth link through the fourth linkage, the fourth link pushes the unlocking plate to rotate, and the sixth link pushes the pawl to rotate.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the automotive electronic door lock further includes: A child lock motor is mounted on the actuator to drive the child lock gear to rotate. The child lock gear is linked to the seventh link via the fifth linkage. A mechanical child safety device is installed on the lock body and is linked to the seventh link via the sixth linkage part. The seventh link is rotatably mounted on the eighth link. A locking motor, mounted on the actuator, for driving the locking gear to rotate; and The lock cylinder linkage is linked to the second linkage via a third linkage.

[0010] Secondly, the present invention provides a control method for an automotive electronic door lock, the method being applied to the automotive electronic door lock described above, the method comprising: Self-priming control: When the car electronic door lock is in a half-lock state, the actuator outputs torque, which drives the gear to rotate clockwise through the output gear, thereby driving the gear plate to reverse. The gear plate drives the limit post to rotate through the arc groove, so that the pull rod pulls the ratchet to the fully locked state. Then the actuator reverses, driving the gear plate back to the zero position, and the zero position signal rod is pressed down. The electric unlocking control, when the car electronic door lock is in a half-lock or full-lock state, the actuator outputs torque, which drives the gear to rotate counterclockwise through the output gear, driving the toothed plate to rotate in reverse; the toothed plate pushes the fourth linkage through the fourth linkage part, the fourth linkage pushes the unlocking plate to rotate clockwise; the unlocking plate drives the sixth linkage to move, the sixth linkage pushes the pawl to rotate clockwise, causing the ratchet to disengage from the pawl, and the signal plate is pushed open to provide feedback on the unlocking status.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: Clutch control: When a sudden power failure occurs during the engagement of the car electronic door lock, the outward opening pull wire is pulled, which pulls the unlocking plate. The second push shaft on the unlocking plate pushes the curved part of the clutch arm to rotate, causing the clutch arm to push the engagement pull rod away from the ratchet. The unlocking plate then pushes the pawl to unlock via the sixth link. Alternatively, if a power failure occurs during the engagement of the car's electronic door lock, the inner opening pull wire is pulled. The inner opening pull wire pulls the eighth link, which in turn moves the seventh link. The seventh link pushes the unlocking plate, which in turn pushes the clutch arm to rotate via the second push shaft. This causes the clutch arm to push away the engagement pull rod, and the unlocking plate then pushes the pawl to unlock via the sixth link.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: The electric child safety lock control is controlled by the controller, which drives the child lock motor to rotate counterclockwise. The fifth linkage part disengages the seventh link from the unlocking plate, so that when the inner opening pull wire is pulled, it cannot push the unlocking plate through the seventh link. The child lock gear releases the child lock switch to provide feedback on the child safety status. The mechanical child safety lock is controlled by manually rotating the mechanical child safety lock clockwise. This disengages the seventh link from the unlocking plate via the sixth linkage, preventing the inner pull wire from pushing the unlocking plate and thus releasing the child lock switch. When unlocking, the child lock motor reverses or the mechanical child safety device is manually reversed, causing the seventh link to reset and link with the unlocking plate, and the child lock gear or the mechanical child safety device presses down on the child lock switch.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: The electric locking control system is as follows: the controller controls the locking motor to drive the locking gear to rotate, which pushes the second link through the first linkage part. The second link pushes the emergency rocker arm through the third linkage part. The emergency rocker arm pushes the sixth link, causing the sixth link to disengage from the pawl. The locking gear releases the locking switch to provide feedback on the locking status. Mechanical locking control: Manually rotate the emergency rocker arm to push open the sixth link through the second link, causing the sixth link to disengage from the pawl, and the emergency rocker arm releases the locking switch through the second link; When unlocking, the locking motor reverses or the emergency rocker arm is manually reversed, causing the sixth link and the pawl to reset and link together. The locking gear or the emergency rocker arm presses down on the locking switch through the second link.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: Double-pull unlocking control: When the car electronic door lock is in the locked state, pulling the inner opening pull cord will actuate the eighth link, which will push the locking gear to rotate clockwise. The locking gear will drive the second link to rotate clockwise through the first linkage part, which will then link the emergency rocker arm to return the sixth link to its original position, thus releasing the lock but not unlocking it. Specifically, by pulling the inner opening screw again, the eighth link drives the seventh link, which in turn pushes the unlocking plate, causing the sixth link to pull the pawl to disengage from the ratchet, thus completing the unlocking process.

[0015] The beneficial effects of the technical solution provided by this invention include at least the following: This technical solution organically integrates functions such as electric closing, electric unlocking, electric locking and unlocking, and electric child lock with mechanical functions such as emergency unlocking, emergency child lock, double-pull door opening, and lock cylinder control. It not only solves the problems of single function, insufficient emergency power failure capability, and delayed signal feedback in existing technologies, but also achieves accurate feedback of lock status through the coordinated design of linkage and signal plate. It strengthens the safety protection of child lock and locking with electric and mechanical dual drive modes. At the same time, it supports multiple configuration options with modular structure, meeting the needs of automotive intelligence for multi-functional and highly reliable door locks in a compact space. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of the invention to explain the invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof.

[0017] Figure 1 The diagram shows a first-view structural schematic of an electronic door lock for automobiles provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 A second-view structural schematic diagram of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0019] Figure 3 The diagram shows a third-view structural schematic of an electronic door lock for automobiles provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the first state structure of the toothed portion of an electronic door lock for automobiles provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the second state structure of the toothed portion of an automotive electronic door lock provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the third state structure of the toothed plate portion of an automotive electronic door lock provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the fourth state structure of the toothed portion of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the clutch arm portion of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0025] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the locking gear and child lock gear of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 10 The diagram shows a first-view structural schematic of the mechanical child safety feature of an electronic door lock for automobiles provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of the mechanical child safety component of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the lock cylinder linkage portion of an automotive electronic door lock provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0029] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the sixth link and emergency rocker arm of an automotive electronic door lock provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0030] In the diagram: 1. Cover plate; 1-1. Second limiting part; 2. Lock body; 2-1. First limiting part; 3. Base plate; 4. Zero position signal rod; 5. Ratchet shaft; 6. Tooth plate; 6-1. Arc groove; 7. Fourth connecting rod; 7-1. Fourth linkage part; 8. First rotating shaft; 9. Pawl shaft; 10. Unlocking plate; 10-1. Second push shaft; 11. First push shaft; 12. Outward opening pull wire; 13. Third connecting rod; 14. Second connecting rod; 14-1. First linkage part; 14-2. Second linkage part; 15. Sixth connecting rod; 16. Emergency rocker arm; 16-1. Third linkage part; 17. Gear; 18. First switch; 19. Second switch; 20 Second rotating shaft; 21 Pawl; 21-1 First engaging part; 21-2 Second engaging part; 22 Clutch arm; 22-1 Curved part; 23 Fifth link; 24 Pull-in pull rod; 25 First link; 25-1 Limit post; 26 Signal plate; 27 Ratchet; 28 Actuator; 28-1 Output gear; 29 Child lock motor; 30 Locking motor; 31 Inward opening pull wire; 32 Eighth link; 33 Seventh link; 34 Locking gear; 35 Mechanical child safety device; 35-1 Sixth linkage part; 36 Child lock gear; 36-1 Fifth linkage part; 37 Lock cylinder link. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0032] In this specification, identical components are represented by the same reference numerals. It should be noted that the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" used in the following description refer to directions in the accompanying drawings, while the terms "bottom surface," "top surface," "inner," and "outer" refer to directions towards or away from a specific component. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this specification, "multiple" means two or more.

[0033] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0034] See Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 8 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The automotive electronic door lock includes a cover plate 1, a lock body 2, and a base plate 3, with an installation space formed between the cover plate 1 and the base plate 3. The electronic door lock also includes: an actuator 28, whose output gear 28-1 meshes with a gear 17; a gear plate 6, which meshes with the gear 17 and is riveted to the lock body 2 via a ratchet shaft 5, a ratchet 27, and a first connecting rod 25; a spring on the ratchet shaft 5 to provide unlocking torque to the ratchet 27 and clockwise torque to the first connecting rod 25; an unlocking plate 10 and a pawl 21, both riveted to the lock body 2 via a pawl shaft 9; a spring on the pawl shaft 9 to provide locking torque to the pawl 21 and clockwise torque to the unlocking plate 10. 0 provides counterclockwise torque; the second link 14, which is rotatably mounted on the lock body 2, is linked to the locking gear 34 through the first linkage part 14-1, linked to the third link 13 through the second linkage part 14-2, and linked to the emergency rocker arm 16 through the third linkage part 16-1; the fourth link 7, which is riveted to the cover plate 1 through the first rotating shaft 8, is used to transmit the rotational power of the unlocking plate 10; the clutch arm 22, which is rotatably mounted on the lock body 2, is limited by the counterclockwise torque at the first limiting part 2-1, and is used to disengage from the ratchet 27 during the engagement process; and the first push shaft 11, which is riveted to the unlocking plate 10, is used to push the clutch arm 22.

[0035] In this embodiment, the output gear 28-1 of the actuator 28 meshes with the gear 17, driving the gear plate 6 to rotate. The gear plate 6 is riveted to the lock body 2 via the ratchet shaft 5, the ratchet 27, and the first connecting rod 25. The spring on the ratchet shaft 5 provides the ratchet 27 with the unlocking torque and simultaneously provides the first connecting rod 25 with the clockwise torque, forming the power basis for the self-locking motion. The unlocking plate 10 and the pawl 21 are riveted to the lock body 2 via the pawl shaft 9. The spring on the pawl shaft 9 keeps the pawl 21 in the locking torque direction and the unlocking plate 10 maintains the counterclockwise torque. The pawl is separated during unlocking through gear transmission and connecting rod thrust.

[0036] In this embodiment, the second link 14, rotatably mounted on the lock body 2, is linked to the locking gear 34 via the first linkage part 14-1, the second linkage part 14-2 via the third link 13, and the third linkage part 16-1 via the emergency rocker arm 16, thereby achieving coordinated control of electric locking and mechanical emergency unlocking. The fourth link 7 is riveted to the cover plate 1 via the first rotating shaft 8, transmitting the rotational power of the unlocking plate 10 to the clutch arm 22. The clutch arm 22 is rotatably mounted on the lock body 2 and is limited by counterclockwise torque at the first limiting part 2-1. When the first push shaft 11 rotates with the unlocking plate 10 and pushes the clutch arm 22, it can disengage from the ratchet 27 during the engagement process, completing the emergency clutch function.

[0037] To elaborate further, see Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 6 , Figure 9 The automotive electronic door lock also includes: a zero-position signal rod 4, which is rotatably mounted on the cover plate 1 and limited by spring torque at the second limiting part 1-1, used to detect the zero-position state of the gear plate 6; a signal plate 26, which is riveted to the base plate 3 via a second rotating shaft 20, on which a spring is provided to the signal plate 26 to always provide clockwise torque, and the signal plate 26 provides feedback on the lock status through the first switch 18 and the second switch 19; a fifth link 23, which is rotatably mounted on the lock body 2, used to press against the signal plate 26 when the door lock is in the half-lock to full-lock state, maintaining the half-lock signal feedback; a locking switch, which is mounted on the actuator 28, used to detect the position of the locking gear 34; and a child lock switch, which is mounted on the actuator 28, used to detect the position of the child lock gear 36.

[0038] In this embodiment, the zero-position signal rod 4 is rotatably mounted on the cover plate 1 and limited to the second limiting part 1-1 by the spring torque. When the toothed plate 6 is in the zero position, the zero-position signal rod 4 triggers a specific position to provide feedback on the initial state. The signal plate 26 is riveted to the base plate 3 via the second rotating shaft 20. The spring applies a clockwise torque to it, and through its contact with the first switch 18 and the second switch 19, it accurately provides feedback on different lock states such as unlocked, half-locked, and fully locked. The fifth connecting rod 23 is rotatably mounted on the lock body 2. During the transition from half-locked to fully locked, it presses against the signal plate 26 to ensure a continuous and stable half-lock signal and prevent misjudgment of the state. The locking switch and child lock switch are respectively installed on the actuator 28. By detecting the position of the locking gear 34 and the child lock gear 36, it provides real-time feedback on the locking and child lock states of the door lock, providing key data support for the vehicle safety system and ensuring user safety and convenience.

[0039] Furthermore, see Figures 1 to 4 The actuator 28 outputs torque, which drives the gear 17 to rotate through the output gear 28-1. The gear plate 6 is linked to the first connecting rod 25 through the cooperation of its arc groove 6-1 and the limiting post 25-1.

[0040] In this embodiment, the actuator 28 outputs torque, which drives the gear 17 to rotate via the output gear 28-1, thereby causing the meshing gear plate 6 to rotate. The arc groove 6-1 of the gear plate 6 engages with the limiting post 25-1 of the first connecting rod 25, converting the rotational motion into a connecting rod swing. This linkage mechanism enables the door lock to self-lock. When the gear plate 6 rotates, it pushes the limiting post 25-1 through the arc groove 6-1, causing the first connecting rod 25 to drive the ratchet 27 to complete the locking action, ensuring reliable locking of the door lock.

[0041] Specifically, see Figure 1 and Figure 7The automotive electronic door lock also includes: a sixth link 15, which is mounted on the unlocking plate 10 and subjected to counterclockwise spring torque; wherein, the toothed plate 6 pushes the fourth link 7 through the fourth linkage part 7-1, the fourth link 7 pushes the unlocking plate 10 to rotate, and the sixth link 15 pushes the pawl 21 to rotate.

[0042] In this embodiment, the sixth link 15 is mounted on the unlocking plate 10 and subjected to a counterclockwise spring torque, forming the basis for the reset power. When the toothed plate 6 pushes the fourth link 7 through the fourth linkage part 7-1, the fourth link 7 transmits the thrust to the unlocking plate 10, causing it to rotate clockwise. At this time, the sixth link 15 mounted on the unlocking plate 10 moves accordingly, using the counterclockwise spring torque to convert the rotational power into a thrust on the pawl 21, pushing the pawl 21 to rotate clockwise, thus disengaging it from the ratchet 27. In this case, the rotational motion of the actuator is converted into the unlocking action of the pawl, ensuring that all components work together during electric unlocking, while the spring torque ensures the reliability of the mechanism's reset and avoids the risk of jamming.

[0043] More specifically, see Figures 1 to 2 , Figures 8 to 12 The automotive electronic door lock also includes: a child lock motor 29, which is mounted on the actuator 28 and is used to drive the child lock gear 36 to rotate. The child lock gear 36 is linked to the seventh link 33 through the fifth linkage part 36-1; a mechanical child safety device 35, which is mounted on the lock body 2 and is linked to the seventh link 33 through the sixth linkage part 35-1. The seventh link 33 is rotatably mounted on the eighth link 32; a locking motor 30, which is mounted on the actuator 28 and is used to drive the locking gear 34 to rotate; and a lock cylinder link 37, which is linked to the second link 14 through the third link 13.

[0044] In this embodiment, the child lock motor 29 is mounted on the actuator 28, driving the child lock gear 36 to rotate. It is linked to the seventh link 33 via the fifth linkage 36-1, cutting off the transmission between the inner opening pull wire and the unlocking plate 10, thus realizing an electric child lock. The mechanical child safety device 35 is linked to the seventh link 33 via the sixth linkage 35-1; manual rotation can interrupt the inner opening linkage, forming mechanical protection. The seventh link 33 is rotatably mounted on the eighth link 32, ensuring linkage switching between the two modes. The locking motor 30 drives the locking gear 34 to control the locking state, while the lock cylinder link 37 is linked to the second link 14 via the third link 13, and can be manually moved to achieve mechanical locking, forming a multi-layered safety protection system to meet locking needs in different scenarios.

[0045] Next, combined Figures 1 to 13 The control method for an automotive electronic door lock involved in the embodiments of the present invention will be described. This control method for an automotive electronic door lock is applied to the automotive electronic door lock described above, and the method includes: In the self-priming control, when the car electronic door lock is in the half-lock state, the actuator 28 outputs torque, which drives the gear 17 to rotate clockwise through the output gear 28-1, thereby driving the gear plate 6 to reverse. The gear plate 6 drives the limit post 25-1 to rotate through the arc groove 6-1, causing the pull rod 24 to pull the ratchet 27 to self-prime to the fully locked state. Then the actuator 28 reverses, driving the gear plate 6 back to the zero position, and the zero position signal rod 4 is pressed down. In the electric unlocking control, when the car electronic door lock is in a half-lock or full-lock state, the actuator 28 outputs torque, which drives the gear 17 to rotate counterclockwise through the output gear 28-1, driving the gear plate 6 to rotate in reverse; the gear plate 6 pushes the fourth linkage 7 through the fourth linkage part 7-1, and the fourth linkage 7 pushes the unlocking plate 10 to rotate clockwise; the unlocking plate 10 drives the sixth linkage 15 to move, and the sixth linkage 15 pushes the pawl 21 to rotate clockwise, so that the ratchet 27 disengages from the pawl 21, and the signal plate 26 is pushed open to provide feedback on the unlocking status.

[0046] In this embodiment, during the self-locking control, the actuator 28 outputs clockwise torque in the half-locked state. This torque meshes with the gear 17 via the output gear 28-1, causing the toothed plate 6 to reverse. Its arc groove 6-1 engages with the limit post 25-1, driving the pull rod 24 to pull the ratchet 27 to the fully locked position. Subsequently, the actuator 28 reverses, causing the toothed plate 6 to return to zero, and the zero-position signal rod 4 is pressed down to provide feedback on the initial state. During electric unlocking, the actuator 28 outputs counterclockwise torque. The toothed plate 6 pushes the fourth linkage 7 via the fourth linkage part 7-1, causing the unlocking plate 10 to rotate clockwise. This drives the sixth linkage 15 to push the pawl 21 away from the ratchet 27. Simultaneously, the signal plate 26 is pushed open by the ratchet, and the unlocking signal is fed back through the first switch 18 and the second switch 19. In this case, through the bidirectional torque output of the actuator, combined with the gear, linkage transmission chain, and signal feedback mechanism, automated control and precise monitoring of the door lock status are achieved.

[0047] Furthermore, the control method for this automotive electronic door lock also includes: Clutch control: When a sudden power failure occurs during the engagement of the car electronic door lock, the outward opening pull wire 12 is pulled, which in turn pulls the unlocking plate 10. The second push shaft 10-1 on the unlocking plate 10 pushes the curved surface 22-1 of the clutch arm 22 to rotate, causing the clutch arm 22 to push the engagement pull rod 24 away from the ratchet 27. The unlocking plate 10 then pushes the pawl 21 to unlock via the sixth link 15. Alternatively, if a power failure occurs during the engagement of the car's electronic door lock, the inner opening pull wire 31 is pulled, which in turn pulls the eighth link 32, causing the seventh link 33 to move. The seventh link 33 pushes the unlocking plate 10, which in turn pushes the clutch arm 22 to rotate via the second push shaft 10-1, causing the clutch arm 22 to push away the engagement pull rod 24. The unlocking plate 10 then pushes the pawl 21 to unlock via the sixth link 15.

[0048] In this embodiment, when a power outage occurs during the engagement process, pulling the outward-opening pull wire 12 causes the unlocking plate 10 to rotate. Its second push shaft 10-1 slides along the curved surface 22-1 of the clutch arm 22, driving the clutch arm 22 to rotate around its fulcrum. This causes the clutch arm 22 to push the engagement lever 24 away from the ratchet 27. Simultaneously, the unlocking plate 10 pushes the pawl 21 via the sixth link 15 to unlock. In the inward-opening scenario, pulling the inward-opening pull wire 31 causes the eighth link 32 to swing. The seventh link 33 transmits thrust to rotate the unlocking plate 10, which in turn rotates the clutch arm 22 via the second push shaft 10-1. This also disengages the engagement lever 24 from the ratchet 27, and the sixth link 15 pushes the pawl 21 to unlock. In this case, the dual-path mechanical linkage ensures that the door lock can still be separated by the inner and outer handles even during a power outage, improving emergency safety.

[0049] Furthermore, the control method for this automotive electronic door lock also includes: The electric child safety lock control is controlled by the controller, which drives the child lock motor 29 to rotate the child lock gear 36 counterclockwise. The fifth linkage part 36-1 disengages the seventh link 33 from the unlocking plate 10, so that when the inner opening pull wire 31 is pulled, it cannot push the unlocking plate 10 through the seventh link 33. The child lock gear 36 releases the child lock switch to provide feedback on the child safety status. The mechanical child safety lock is controlled by manually rotating the mechanical child safety 35 clockwise. This disengages the seventh link 33 from the unlocking plate 10 via the sixth linkage 35-1, preventing the inner pull wire 31 from pushing the unlocking plate 10. This releases the child lock switch on the mechanical child safety 35. When unlocking, the child lock motor 29 reverses or the mechanical child safety device 35 is manually reversed, so that the seventh link 33 and the unlocking plate 10 are reset and linked, and the child lock gear 36 or the mechanical child safety device 35 presses the child lock switch.

[0050] In this embodiment, when the electric child safety device is locked, the controller instructs the child lock motor 29 to drive the child lock gear 36 to rotate counterclockwise. The fifth linkage 36-1 changes the position of the seventh link 33, disconnecting it from the unlocking plate 10, thus disabling the transmission function of the inner pull wire 31. Simultaneously, the child lock gear 36 releases the child lock switch, signaling to the vehicle system that the child safety device has been activated. The mechanical child safety device is activated by manually rotating the mechanical child safety device 35 clockwise, achieving the same linkage disengagement effect with the sixth linkage 35-1, and similarly releasing the child lock switch. When unlocking, the child lock motor 29 reverses or the mechanical child safety device 35 is manually rotated, resetting the seventh link 33 and re-establishing linkage with the unlocking plate 10. The child lock gear 36 or the mechanical child safety device 35 presses down the child lock switch, disengaging the child safety device and ensuring operational flexibility and safety.

[0051] Furthermore, the control method for this automotive electronic door lock also includes: Electric locking control: The controller controls the locking motor 30 to drive the locking gear 34 to rotate, which pushes the second link 14 through the first linkage part 14-1. The second link 14 pushes open the emergency rocker arm 16 through the third linkage part 16-1. The emergency rocker arm 16 pushes open the sixth link 15, so that the sixth link 15 is disengaged from the pawl 21. The locking gear 34 releases the locking switch to provide feedback on the locking status. Mechanical locking control: Manually rotate the emergency rocker arm 16 to push open the sixth link 15 through the second link 14, so that the sixth link 15 is disengaged from the pawl 21, and the emergency rocker arm 16 releases the locking switch through the second link 14. When unlocking, the locking motor 30 reverses or the emergency rocker arm 16 is manually reversed, so that the sixth link 15 and the pawl 21 are reset and linked, and the locking gear 34 or the emergency rocker arm 16 presses the locking switch through the second link 14.

[0052] In this embodiment, during electric locking, the controller drives the locking motor 30 to rotate the locking gear 34, which in turn pushes the second link 14 via the first linkage 14-1. The second link 14 then rotates the emergency rocker arm 16 via the third linkage 16-1, pushing the sixth link 15 away from the pawl 21. The locking gear 34 then releases the locking switch and sends a feedback signal to the vehicle system indicating the locking status. For mechanical locking, the emergency rocker arm 16 is manually rotated to directly push the second link 14, which in turn pushes the sixth link 15 away from the pawl 21, releasing the locking switch. During unlocking, the locking motor 30 reverses or the emergency rocker arm 16 is manually rotated to reset the second link 14, causing the sixth link 15 to re-link with the pawl 21. The locking gear 34 or the emergency rocker arm 16 then presses the locking switch through the second link 14, completing the unlocking action and ensuring the reliability and security of the door lock state switching.

[0053] Furthermore, the control method for this automotive electronic door lock also includes: The double-pull unlocking control works as follows: When the car's electronic door lock is locked, pulling the inner opening pull screw 31 drives the eighth link 32, which in turn pushes the locking gear 34 to rotate clockwise. The locking gear 34, through the first linkage part 14-1, drives the second link 14 to rotate clockwise, which in turn links the emergency rocker arm 16 to return the sixth link 15 to its original position, thus releasing the lock but not unlocking it. Alternatively, by pulling the inner opening pull screw 31 again, the eighth link 32 drives the seventh link 33, which in turn pushes the unlocking plate 10, causing the sixth link 15 to pull the pawl 21 to disengage the ratchet 27, thus unlocking the door.

[0054] In this embodiment, when the inner opening pull cord 31 is pulled for the first time while locked, the pulling force is transmitted through the eighth link 32, pushing the locking gear 34 to rotate clockwise. This, in turn, drives the second link 14 to rotate synchronously via the first linkage part 14-1, which in turn links the emergency rocker arm 16 to return the sixth link 15 to its original position, releasing the locking gear 34 from locking the pawl 21. However, at this time, the pawl 21 is still engaged with the ratchet 27, and the door lock remains closed. When the inner opening pull cord 31 is pulled again, the eighth link 32 drives the seventh link 33 to rotate the unlocking plate 10. The unlocking plate 10, through the sixth link 15, pulls the pawl 21 away from the ratchet 27, completing the unlocking process. In this case, a two-step operation avoids accidental locking, while mechanical linkage ensures graded control in the locked state, improving the overall vehicle safety performance.

[0055] In an optional embodiment, the control method for automotive electronic door locks further includes: Lock cylinder control: Moving the lock cylinder linkage 37 to the left causes the third linkage 13 to rotate synchronously. The third linkage 13, through the second linkage part 14-2, causes the second linkage 14 to reverse, which in turn triggers the emergency rocker arm 16 to push open the sixth linkage 15, disengaging the sixth linkage 15 from the pawl 21 and achieving internal and external locking. Moving the lock cylinder linkage 37 to the right causes the third linkage 13 to reverse the second linkage 14, which in turn triggers the emergency rocker arm 16 to return the sixth linkage 15 to its original position, allowing unlocking from both inside and outside via the sixth linkage 15.

[0056] In this embodiment, when the lock cylinder linkage 37 is moved to the left, it pushes the third linkage 13 to rotate synchronously. The third linkage 13 drives the second linkage 14 to reverse through the second linkage part 14-2, which in turn drives the emergency rocker arm 16 to rotate, pushing the sixth linkage 15 to disengage it from the pawl 21. At this time, neither the inner nor outer opening pull screw can drive the pawl 21 through the sixth linkage 15, achieving a fully locked state. When the lock cylinder linkage 37 is moved to the right, the third linkage 13 drives the second linkage 14 to rotate in the opposite direction, which drives the emergency rocker arm 16 to return the sixth linkage 15 to its original position, re-establishing the linkage relationship with the pawl 21. At this time, the inner and outer opening pull screws can pull the pawl 21 out of the ratchet 27 through the sixth linkage 15, restoring the normal unlocking function. In this case, the bidirectional transmission of the mechanical linkage realizes the physical control of the door lock by the key, improving the operational reliability in emergency scenarios.

[0057] In particular, the signal feedback principle of the automotive electronic door lock involved in the embodiments of the present invention will be explained.

[0058] Zero position signal feedback: when the toothed plate 6 is in the zero position, the zero position signal rod 4 is pressed down and the locking switch is not triggered; when the toothed plate 6 rotates, the zero position signal rod 4 returns to its original position under the action of the spring and presses against the locking switch, feeding back the non-zero position state. The unlocking status feedback is that the signal plate 26 is pushed open by the ratchet 27, and the signal plate 26 presses the first switch 18 and the second switch 19, indicating that the door lock is in the unlocked state. The half-lock state feedback is as follows: when the ratchet 27 and the pawl 21 are engaged in the first engagement part 21-1, the signal plate 26 is pushed open by the ratchet 27, the first switch 18 is pressed, and the second switch 19 is not pressed, thus providing feedback that the door lock is in a half-lock state; at the same time, the pawl 21 pushes open the fifth link 23, and the fifth link 23 presses against the signal plate 26 to maintain the half-lock signal. Full lock status feedback: when ratchet 27 and pawl 21 are engaged in the second engagement part 21-2, pawl 21 disengages from the fifth link 23, signal plate 26 returns to its original position under the action of spring, and the first switch 18 and the second switch 19 are not pressed, indicating that the door lock is in the full lock state.

[0059] In this embodiment, when the position is zero, the toothed plate 6 presses against the zero-position signal rod 4, and the locking switch is not triggered. After the toothed plate 6 rotates, the zero-position signal rod 4 returns to its original position under the action of the spring and presses against the locking switch, providing feedback on the non-zero position. When unlocking, the signal plate 26 is pushed open by the ratchet 27, simultaneously pressing against the first switch 18 and the second switch 19, triggering the unlocking state feedback through the dual switches. When partially locked, the ratchet 27 and the pawl 21 engage in the first engagement part 21-1, the signal plate 26 is pushed open by the ratchet 27, triggering the first switch 18 and disengaging the second switch 19. At the same time, the pawl 21 pushes open the fifth link 23, and the fifth link 23 presses against the signal plate 26, maintaining continuous feedback of the half-lock signal. When fully locked, ratchet 27 and pawl 21 engage at the second engagement part 21-2, pawl 21 disengages from the fifth link 23, signal plate 26 returns to its original position under the action of spring, and the first switch 18 and the second switch 19 are not pressed, thereby providing feedback on the fully locked state and ensuring the reliability and real-time performance of the door lock's various operating conditions signals.

[0060] In summary, this technical solution organically integrates functions such as electric closing, electric unlocking, electric locking and unlocking, and electric child lock with mechanical functions such as emergency unlocking, emergency child lock, double-pull door opening, and lock cylinder control. It not only solves the problems of single function, insufficient emergency power failure capability, and delayed signal feedback in existing technologies, but also achieves accurate lock status feedback through the coordinated design of linkage and signal plate. It strengthens the safety protection of child lock and locking with electric and mechanical dual drive modes. At the same time, it supports multiple configuration options with modular structure, meeting the needs of automotive intelligence for multi-functional and highly reliable door locks in a compact space.

[0061] In the embodiments disclosed in this invention, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "linking" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments disclosed in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0062] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principle of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An electronic door lock for automobiles, comprising a cover plate (1), a lock body (2), and a base plate (3), wherein an installation space is formed between the cover plate (1) and the base plate (3), characterized in that, The automotive electronic door lock also includes: Actuator (28), whose output gear (28-1) meshes with gear (17); The toothed plate (6) meshes with the gear (17) and is riveted to the lock body (2) via the ratchet shaft (5), ratchet (27), and first connecting rod (25). A spring is provided on the ratchet shaft (5) to provide the ratchet (27) with the unlocking torque and the first connecting rod (25) with the clockwise torque. The unlocking plate (10) and the pawl (21) are riveted to the lock body (2) via the pawl shaft (9). A spring is provided on the pawl shaft (9) to provide locking torque to the pawl (21) and counterclockwise torque to the unlocking plate (10). The second link (14) is rotatably mounted on the lock body (2). It is linked to the locking gear (34) through the first linkage part (14-1), linked to the third link (13) through the second linkage part (14-2), and linked to the emergency rocker arm (16) through the third linkage part (16-1). The fourth link (7) is riveted to the cover plate (1) via the first rotating shaft (8) and is used to transmit the rotational power of the unlocking plate (10); A clutch arm (22), rotatably mounted to the lock body (2), is limited by a counterclockwise torque at a first limiting part (2-1) for disengaging from the ratchet (27) during engagement; and The first push shaft (11), which is riveted to the unlocking plate (10), is used to push the clutch arm (22).

2. The automotive electronic door lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automotive electronic door lock also includes: The zero-position signal rod (4) is rotatably mounted on the cover plate (1) and is limited by spring torque at the second limiting part (1-1) for detecting the zero-position state of the toothed plate (6); The signal plate (26) is riveted to the base plate (3) via the second rotating shaft (20). A spring is provided on the second rotating shaft (20) to always provide the signal plate (26) with a clockwise torque. The signal plate (26) provides feedback on the lock state through the first switch (18) and the second switch (19). The fifth link (23), which is rotatably mounted on the lock body (2), is used to press against the signal plate (26) when the door lock is from half-locked to fully locked, to maintain the half-lock signal feedback; A locking switch, mounted on the actuator (28), is used to detect the position of the locking gear (34); and A child lock switch is installed on the actuator (28) to detect the position of the child lock gear (36).

3. The automotive electronic door lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuator (28) outputs torque to drive the gear (17) to rotate through the output gear (28-1), and the toothed plate (6) is linked to the first connecting rod (25) through the cooperation of its arc groove (6-1) and the limiting post (25-1).

4. The automotive electronic door lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automotive electronic door lock also includes: The sixth link (15) is mounted on the unlocking plate (10) and subjected to a counterclockwise spring torque; The toothed plate (6) pushes the fourth link (7) through the fourth linkage part (7-1), the fourth link (7) pushes the unlocking plate (10) to rotate, and the sixth link (15) pushes the pawl (21) to rotate.

5. The automotive electronic door lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automotive electronic door lock also includes: A child lock motor (29) is installed on the actuator (28) to drive the child lock gear (36) to rotate. The child lock gear (36) is linked to the seventh link (33) through the fifth linkage part (36-1). Mechanical child safety device (35), which is installed on the lock body (2), is linked to the seventh link (33) through the sixth linkage part (35-1), and the seventh link (33) is rotatably installed on the eighth link (32); Locking motor (30), mounted on actuator (28), for driving the locking gear (34) to rotate; and The lock cylinder link (37) is linked with the second link (14) through the third link (13).

6. A control method for an electronic door lock for automobiles, characterized in that, The method is applied to the automotive electronic door lock according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and the method includes: Self-priming control: When the car electronic door lock is in a half-lock state, the actuator (28) outputs torque, which drives the gear (17) to rotate clockwise through the output gear (28-1), thereby driving the toothed plate (6) to reverse. The toothed plate (6) drives the limit post (25-1) to rotate through the arc groove (6-1), causing the pull rod (24) to pull the ratchet (27) to self-prime to the fully locked state. Then the actuator (28) reverses, driving the toothed plate (6) back to the zero position, and the zero position signal rod (4) is pressed down. Electric unlocking control: When the car electronic door lock is in a half-lock or full-lock state, the actuator (28) outputs torque, which drives the gear (17) to rotate counterclockwise through the output gear (28-1), driving the toothed plate (6) to rotate in reverse; the toothed plate (6) pushes the fourth link (7) through the fourth linkage part (7-1), and the fourth link (7) pushes the unlocking plate (10) to rotate clockwise; the unlocking plate (10) drives the sixth link (15) to move, and the sixth link (15) pushes the pawl (21) to rotate clockwise, so that the ratchet (27) disengages from the pawl (21), and the signal plate (26) is pushed open to provide feedback on the unlocking status.

7. The control method for an automotive electronic door lock according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Clutch control: When a sudden power failure occurs during the engagement of the car electronic door lock, the outward opening pull wire (12) is pulled, and the outward opening pull wire (12) pulls the unlocking plate (10). The second push shaft (10-1) on the unlocking plate (10) pushes the curved surface (22-1) of the clutch arm (22) to rotate, so that the clutch arm (22) pushes the engagement pull rod (24) to disengage from the ratchet (27). The unlocking plate (10) pushes the pawl (21) to unlock through the sixth link (15). Alternatively, when a sudden power failure occurs during the engagement of the car electronic door lock, the inner opening pull wire (31) is pulled, which pulls the eighth link (32), causing the seventh link (33) to move. The seventh link (33) pushes the unlocking plate (10), and the unlocking plate (10) pushes the clutch arm (22) to rotate through the second push shaft (10-1), causing the clutch arm (22) to push open the engagement pull rod (24). The unlocking plate (10) then pushes the pawl (21) to unlock through the sixth link (15).

8. The control method for an automotive electronic door lock according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The electric child safety lock control is controlled by the controller, which controls the child lock motor (29) to drive the child lock gear (36) to rotate counterclockwise. The seventh link (33) is disengaged from the unlocking plate (10) through the fifth linkage (36-1), so that the inner opening pull wire (31) cannot push the unlocking plate (10) through the seventh link (33) when it is pulled. The child lock gear (36) releases the child lock switch to provide feedback on the child safety status. The mechanical child safety lock is controlled by manually rotating the mechanical child safety (35) clockwise. The seventh link (33) is disengaged from the unlocking plate (10) through the sixth linkage (35-1), so that the inner pull wire (31) cannot push the unlocking plate (10), and the mechanical child safety (35) releases the child lock switch. When unlocking, the child lock motor (29) reverses or the mechanical child safety device (35) is manually reversed, so that the seventh link (33) and the unlocking plate (10) are reset and linked, and the child lock gear (36) or the mechanical child safety device (35) presses the child lock switch.

9. The control method for an automotive electronic door lock according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Electric locking control: The controller controls the locking motor (30) to drive the locking gear (34) to rotate, and pushes the second link (14) through the first linkage part (14-1). The second link (14) pushes open the emergency rocker arm (16) through the third linkage part (16-1). The emergency rocker arm (16) pushes open the sixth link (15), so that the sixth link (15) is disengaged from the pawl (21). The locking gear (34) releases the locking switch to provide feedback on the locking status. Mechanical locking control: Manually rotate the emergency rocker arm (16) to push the sixth link (15) open through the second link (14), so that the sixth link (15) is disengaged from the pawl (21), and the emergency rocker arm (16) releases the locking switch through the second link (14); When unlocking, the locking motor (30) reverses or the emergency rocker arm (16) is manually reversed, so that the sixth link (15) and the pawl (21) are reset and linked, and the locking gear (34) or the emergency rocker arm (16) presses the locking switch through the second link (14).

10. The control method for an automotive electronic door lock according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Double-pull unlocking control: When the car electronic door lock is in the locked state, pull the inner opening pull wire (31), the inner opening pull wire (31) drives the eighth link (32), the eighth link (32) pushes the locking gear (34) to rotate clockwise, the locking gear (34) drives the second link (14) to rotate clockwise through the first linkage part (14-1), and the emergency rocker arm (16) is linked to make the sixth link (15) return to the position, releasing the locked state but not unlocking; In this process, by pulling the inner opening pull wire (31) again, the eighth link (32) drives the seventh link (33), which in turn pushes the unlocking plate (10), causing the sixth link (15) to pull the pawl (21) to disengage from the ratchet (27), thus completing the unlocking.

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