Latch assembly for a closure of a vehicle

Abstract

A latch assembly for a closure of a vehicle includes a latch mechanism, a sensor monitoring circuit, and a non-contact sensor. The latch mechanism has a plurality of latch components each movable to define a plurality of operating positions of the latch mechanism. The non-contact sensor is configured to detect a position of at least one metallic target. The sensor monitoring circuit is in functional communication with the non-contact sensor and is configured to determine a position of at least one latch component based on the detected position of the at least one metallic target.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 797,992, filed May 1, 2025. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a power-operated closing system for a motor vehicle. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a latch assembly configured for mounting in a door closing system having a sensor arrangement for detecting the position of one or more components of the latch assembly. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information that is relevant to this disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] Door latch assemblies typically have many moving parts. Traditionally, microswitches have been used to provide this position sensing for these parts, where the parts themselves have engagement profiles to activate the microswitches at specific locations. Another common technology in automotive latch applications is the Hall effect sensor, which uses a magnet attached to each lever component. When the lever reaches a specific position below the Hall effect sensor, it triggers a signal back to the BCM or latch controller. However, both microswitches and Hall effect sensors have drawbacks such as cost and weight. Microswitches have a limited lifespan and can cause other harmful effects such as noise, vibration, and acoustic roughness. Hall effect sensors require expensive magnets to function.

[0006] Given the above, there is still a need to develop improved sensing devices for latching assemblies to advance existing technologies while providing increased applicability and reducing cost and complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and is not a full disclosure of the entire scope of the disclosure or all its features, aspects and / or objectives.

[0008] This disclosure provides a latching assembly for a vehicle closure. The latching assembly includes: a latching mechanism having a plurality of latching members; a non-contact sensor configured to detect the position of at least one metallic target; and sensor monitoring circuitry functionally communicating with the non-contact sensor. Each latching member is movable to define a plurality of operating positions of the latching mechanism. The sensor monitoring circuitry is configured to determine the position of at least one latching member of the plurality of latching members based on the detected position of the at least one metallic target.

[0009] This disclosure also provides a latching assembly for a vehicle closure, the latching assembly comprising: a latching mechanism having a plurality of latching members; and sensor monitoring circuitry functionally communicating with a non-contact sensor. Each of the plurality of latching members is movable to define a plurality of operating positions of the latching mechanism. The plurality of latching members includes a release lever having a metallic body. The non-contact sensor is configured to detect the body of the release lever within a given region adjacent to the non-contact sensor.

[0010] This disclosure also provides a latching assembly for a vehicle closure, the latching assembly comprising: a latching mechanism having at least one latching member, each latching member being movable to an operating position; a non-contact sensor arrangement configured to detect the presence of at least one latching member relative to a given area adjacent to the non-contact sensor arrangement; and a sensor monitoring circuit functionally communicating with the non-contact sensor arrangement and configured to determine the position of at least one latching member based on the detected presence.

[0011] In this regard, the non-contact sensor arrangement is configured to detect the metal portion of at least one latching component.

[0012] In the relevant aspect, at least one of the latching components includes a body, wherein the body is formed of metal to define a metal portion.

[0013] In related aspects, the non-contact sensor arrangement is not configured to detect a magnet mounted on at least one latching component in the latching component.

[0014] In a related aspect, the non-contact sensor arrangement includes at least one non-contact sensor, each of which is configured to generate a field in a given area to detect the presence of at least one latching member, wherein each non-contact sensor is configured to detect disturbances to the field due to the interaction of at least one of the latching members with the field.

[0015] In a related aspect, at least one non-contact sensor includes multiple non-contact sensors that are in electrical communication with a sensor monitoring circuit, wherein the multiple non-contact sensors are connected to each other in sequence.

[0016] In the relevant aspect, one of the non-contact sensors defines the first non-contact sensor in the sequence, and another non-contact sensor defines the last non-contact sensor in the sequence.

[0017] In related aspects, the sensor monitoring circuit is adapted to apply an excitation signal to the sensor arrangement structure to generate a field for each non-contact sensor.

[0018] In related aspects, each non-contact sensor includes an input node and an output node, wherein at least one non-contact sensor has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to the output node of another non-contact sensor, and wherein at least one non-contact sensor has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to a sensor monitoring circuit to receive an excitation signal.

[0019] In this regard, the excitation signal is an alternating signal.

[0020] In related aspects, the output node of the last non-contact sensor in the sequence is connected to the voltage bias section.

[0021] In related aspects, each non-contact sensor has a first coil configured to generate a field in response to receiving an excitation signal, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes a first circuit that interconnects a plurality of first coils in series.

[0022] In related aspects, each non-contact sensor has a second coil configured to generate a current in response to a generated field, the generated field being modified by at least one latching member that interacts with the generated field, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes a second circuit that interconnects a plurality of second coils in series.

[0023] In this regard, the sensor monitoring circuit is configured to detect the voltage level of the second circuit generated by a plurality of second coils, thereby distinguishing between a plurality of different possible positions of at least one latching member relative to a plurality of non-contact sensors.

[0024] In related aspects, a printed circuit board is provided, wherein the sensor monitoring circuit and the sensor arrangement structure are each disposed on the printed circuit board or formed within the printed circuit board.

[0025] In related aspects, each non-contact sensor has a first coil configured to generate a field in response to receiving an excitation signal from a sensor monitoring circuit. The non-contact sensor arrangement includes a first circuit that interconnects a plurality of first coils in series. Each non-contact sensor has a second coil configured to generate a current in response to experiencing the generated field. The generated field is modified by at least one latching member that interacts with the generated field. The non-contact sensor arrangement includes a second circuit that interconnects a plurality of second coils in series. The printed circuit board includes a first side and an opposite second side, wherein the first circuit is printed on the first side and the second circuit is printed on the second side.

[0026] In a related aspect, the printed circuit board extends in a plane covering multiple latching components, and wherein the sensor monitoring circuitry includes one or more coils defined by conductors within the plane of the printed circuit board.

[0027] In related aspects, the multiple latching components include at least one of the following: a release lever, a pawl, a tightening lever, a ratchet, and a power release gear.

[0028] In a related aspect, the sensor monitoring circuit is also configured to transmit the state of the latch assembly to the latch controller based on the determined position of at least one latch component.

[0029] In this context, the closure is the passenger door of the vehicle.

[0030] This disclosure also provides a sensing configuration for a vehicle latching component having one or more movable components, each movable to an operating position. The sensing configuration includes: a non-contact sensor arrangement configured to generate a field in a given region adjacent to the non-contact sensor to detect the presence of at least one component in response to interference with the field by at least one component interacting with the field; and a sensor monitoring circuit functionally communicating with the non-contact sensor arrangement and configured to determine the position of at least one component based on the interference with the field.

[0031] In related aspects, a motor vehicle latching component having one or more movable parts may be a window regulator actuator, a power side door actuator, a remote cable tightening actuator, a remote cable power release actuator, a remote relay locking / unlocking unit or headboard, or a front trunk latch, a lift latch, or a sliding latch.

[0032] Other applicable areas will become apparent from the descriptions provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this overview are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The foregoing and other aspects of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 A plan view of the latch assembly of the present disclosure, comprising a latching mechanism, a power-operated latching release mechanism, a tightening mechanism, and a reset mechanism, is shown.

[0035] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The latch assembly, wherein a position sensor of the sensing system is arranged to detect the position of a component in the sensing system; and

[0036] Figure 3 A schematic block diagram of a sensing system for a latch assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0037] This disclosure provides a technique for a side door latch in a motor vehicle. One aspect of this disclosure provides a use of an inductive sensor design to detect the position of a latch or tightening mechanism at various stages of its travel and / or operation. The illustrated components include an inductive sensor design with multiple sensing points arranged on a printed circuit board (PCB), and a latch or tightening mechanism movable between different positions such as open, tightening start, and full tightening stroke. The inductive sensor detects the latch position by utilizing the change in impedance of the PCB traces caused by the proximity of a metal component. The multiple sensing points on the PCB are used to distinguish different latch positions by detecting a unique impedance distribution corresponding to each position. The sensor design with the PCB layout has a sensing trace pattern. The sensor design can detect different latch positions such as open, tightening start, and full tightening stroke, and map the latch position to a expected sensor reading at each position. Predetermined values ​​are provided to associate sensor signal values ​​from points such as CL1, CL2, etc., with each latch position. This sensor data can be interpreted by a control system to determine the exact latch position for applications requiring precise latch stroke monitoring. In summary, the inductive sensor approach aims to provide a robust, non-contact method for accurately tracking the position of latching or tightening mechanisms during operation in various industries.

[0038] This disclosure utilizes an alternative lever position sensing technology by employing inductive sensor technology, which replaces the use of multiple Hall effect sensors and magnets with a single inductive sensor chip. It works in conjunction with an EE smart bridge. A single monitoring circuit can monitor the position state of all levers used for latching under various conditions. This disclosure uses inductive sensor technology to address the problems outlined above, providing several advantages over conventional methods such as microswitches and Hall effect sensors. The advantages provided by the systems and components of this disclosure include:

[0039] Simplified PCB Design: Inductive sensors simplify latch-up PCB design, creating a more straightforward solution. This simplification can potentially reduce the overall size of the PCB, making the design more compact and efficient.

[0040] Cost Reduction: By combining inductive sensor technology with remote vehicle system architectures, such as Magna's Smart Axle technology, the novel inductive sensor arrangement disclosed herein can help reduce the cost of latches. This reduction in latch cost translates to a reduction in overall system cost, making it more economical for manufacturers and consumers. Eliminating magnets from the sensing arrangement further reduces costs.

[0041] Flexible PCB Compatibility: Unlike standard PCBs, inductive sensors can potentially utilize flexible PCBs, which are typically less expensive and allow for optimized overall latch-up packaging. This design flexibility enables more innovative and space-saving configurations.

[0042] Versatility: Inductive sensor technology is not limited to door latch applications. It can also be applied to components of other door systems currently using micro-switches, thus providing a wider range of applications and improvements for different latch and power actuator types.

[0043] In summary, this disclosure provides a more efficient, cost-effective, and versatile solution for detecting the position of release or locking chain links in side door latch applications, thereby enhancing the functionality and reliability of automotive door systems. This disclosure provides the application of inductive sensor technology to address the problems outlined above, offering several key advantages over conventional methods such as microswitches and Hall effect sensors.

[0044] This disclosure addresses several issues in side door latch applications, thereby enhancing both safety and functionality. Specifically, this disclosure provides status feedback to the vehicle's body control module (BCM) or partial latch controller for all release chain and locking chain components. This feedback allows the control system to know the door status, including whether the rear door is fully latched, locked, double-locked, or in child lock mode.

[0045] For more advanced side door latch applications, this disclosure enables the control system to send signals to activate additional features such as power release, tightening, and ice-breaking functions. These features can be crucial for ensuring that the latch control system accurately knows the latch status by monitoring the position of each release or locking lever component. This comprehensive feedback system significantly enhances the safety and convenience of the vehicle's door latch mechanism.

[0046] This disclosure is not limited to side door latch applications, but can be applied to other automotive latch products, such as lift latches, seat latches, hood latches, front trunk latches, tailgate latches, and power door latch systems.

[0047] One aspect of this disclosure is to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of detecting the position of all release or locking chain components in side latch applications.

[0048] This disclosure attempts to improve these methods and structures by utilizing inductive sensor technology. The method requires each rod to have a conductive metal point instead of a magnet. When the rod component reaches a specific position, the conductive metal point below the sensor coil triggers a voltage signal via an oscillator. The sensor then interprets this data and presents it as an analog or transmitted value to a control system, such as a smart bridge. This method offers several advantages, including reduced complexity, increased durability, and improved signal accuracy, thereby achieving our goal of advancing detection technology for side-door latch applications.

[0049] Example embodiments of latching assemblies constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure for use in a motor vehicle closing system will now be disclosed. Further examples of latching assemblies associated with a smart latch having integrated control electronics and an optional backup power source are illustrated and described. These example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, configurations, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, the example embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and none of the example embodiments should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0050] This disclosure relates to a motor vehicle including a passenger door, the passenger door being pivotally mounted to the vehicle body via an upper door hinge and a lower door hinge. As will be described in detail, the door includes a latching assembly capable of releasably latching a strike pin mounted on the vehicle body to hold the door in a closed position relative to the vehicle body.

[0051] Now refer to Figure 1 A first non-limiting example of a latch assembly 22 will be described to identify and define the disclosed concepts embodied therein. Typically, the latch assembly 22 includes a latch housing 40 having a metal frame plate defining a fish-mouth shaped striker entry channel into which the striker can travel, and a latching mechanism including a ratchet 60 for releasably engaging with the striker and a pawl 70 for releasably engaging with the ratchet 60.

[0052] The latch assembly 22 includes a power-operated latch release mechanism 46 having a power release motor 94 for rotating a power release gear 90, such that rotation of the power release gear 90 can act on a pawl 70 to disengage the pawl 70 from a ratchet 60, thereby releasing the strike pin and allowing the door to move away from the closed position. The power release motor 94 is shown as electrically connected to a latch controller 13, which may include power electronics and a microprocessor with associated memory for controlling the operation of the power release motor 94. An exemplary power release configuration of the latch assembly 22, and other aspects thereof, are shown and described in common U.S. Patent No. 11,072,948 entitled “Smart Latch,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] The latch assembly 22 can be configured as a “Smart latch” having integrated control and power electronics with or without backup power, and other aspects thereof, are shown and described in commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 9,353,556 entitled “Electrical vehicle latch”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] The latch assembly 22 may optionally include a power-operated tightening mechanism 52 configured to move the ratchet 60 toward a position where the pawl 70 can engage with the ratchet 70 to hold the door in a closed position. The power-operated tightening mechanism 52 is operable to rotate the ratchet 60 from a secondary pin-capture position to a primary pin-capture position where it is fully tightened. The power-operated tightening mechanism 52 may include a power-tightening actuator and a tightening lever 53 that converts the output of the tightening actuator into rotation of the ratchet 60 in the latching direction. The power-tightening actuator may include a power-tightening motor controlled by the latch controller 13. As shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 10,767,397, entitled “Single motor latch assembly with powercinch and power release having soft opening function,” the latch assembly 22 may be configured to have a tightening function and other aspects, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] The latch assembly 22 may optionally include an internal / external (IS / OS) latch release mechanism 54, which includes a release lever 73 operatively coupled to the internal / external (IS / OS) handle 11 via a Bowden cable, such that actuation of the internal / external handle 11 for moving the pawl 70 applies a tension 124 to the Bowden cable. The latch handle 11 may include a microswitch for detecting movement of the internal / external handle, wherein the microswitch is electrically connected to the latch controller 11 to trigger control of the power release motor 94.

[0056] The latch assembly 22 may also include a reset mechanism, typically shown as including a biased reset lever 111 mounted to the latch housing 40 via a reverse drive lever pivot to apply a reset force to the power release gear 90 and return the power release gear 90 to its original position after the electric motor 94 has been deactivated following a power release operation. As shown and described in the commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 11,072,948 entitled “Smart Latch,” the latch assembly 22 may be configured to have at least a reset mechanism and other aspects, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0057] The construction of latch assembly 22 may utilize aspects of the described latch assembly, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0058] The various components of the latch assembly 22, such as the pawl 70, ratchet 60, release lever 73, power release gear 90, reset lever 111, and tightening lever 53, may be made of metal to provide a metal target, and optionally may be encased in a plastic housing to enclose the metal. Optionally, the metal of the latching component may be fully exposed. Optionally, the metal of the latching component may be partially exposed. Optionally, the components of the latch assembly 22 may be plastic with a metal target fixed within plastic. The metal latching component may not be magnetized and may not have a magnet for outputting a magnetic field.

[0059] The latch assembly 22 also includes a support substrate 126, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), covering the respective latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90, and the support substrate 126 is configured to support sensors that sense the position of those components to determine the condition of the latch assembly 22. Illustratively, the printed circuit board 126 is disposed in a plane above the plane of the respective latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90. The substrate 126 or the printed circuit board may have a first side and an opposite second side.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 2The support base plate 126 is shown to include one or more sensors 141. These sensors 141 are illustratively configured as non-contact sensors to detect the position of at least one target, which may be a metallic target associated with each latching member 53, 60, 70, 73, 90. For example, the metallic target may be a metal portion of each latching member 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 that may include a portion of the metal body of each latching member 53, 60, 70, 73, 90, or a separate metal portion mounted to each latching member 53, 60, 70, 73, 90, for example, by overmolding, snap-fit, or other connection methods. For example, each latching member 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 may have a plastic body with metallic elements fixed in the plastic body during the molding process, adhered to the plastic body using an adhesive, or connected to the plastic body via a press-fit connection. The metal portions of each latching component 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 may not generate a magnetic field, meaning that the metal portions do not inherently generate a magnetic field as required by known Hall sensor magnets. Therefore, each latching component 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 is not provided with a magnet serving as a target for one or more sensors 141, as is currently known in Hall sensor arrangements.

[0061] In one possible implementation, one or more sensors 141 are inductive sensors. An inductive sensor is an electronic device that operates using the principle of electromagnetic induction to detect or measure nearby metallic targets. The sensor generates a magnetic field when an electric current flows through it, which propagates within and around the sensor; alternatively, when the magnetic field passing through the sensor changes, an electric current flows through the circuitry containing the sensor. This magnetic field can originate internally or externally. This effect can be used to detect metallic targets interacting with the magnetic field. Such interaction can cause interference when a metallic target, such as one provided by the possible configurations of the various latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90, moves through the field generated by the inductive sensor in the region adjacent to one or more sensors 141. The field generated by the inductive sensor can be a magnetic field or an electromagnetic field.

[0062] One or more sensors 141 include inductive sensors, each associated with one of the respective latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90. In another possible configuration, two or more sensors 141 may be associated with a single latching component. In yet another possible configuration, a single sensor 141 may be associated with two or more different latching components.

[0063] Now refer to Figure 3Inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 are arranged to detect the positions of latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. The positions of the latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90 can be detected by sensing changes in the magnetic field of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 as they enter and / or travel through and / or leave the magnetic field and / or remain in the magnetic field. In other words, the movement of the latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90 between, towards, or from operating positions will modify the resulting field.

[0064] Illustratively, the first inductive position sensor 142 is configured to detect the presence of the release lever 73 adjacent to it, as indicated by arrow 160, when the release lever 73 moves between operating positions from a non-release position (outside the detection range of the first inductive position sensor 142) to a release position (within the detection range of the first inductive position sensor 142) as part of an actuation movement (e.g., caused by the pulling of Bowden cable 124).

[0065] The second inductive position sensor 144 and the third inductive position sensor 146 can each be used to detect the operating position of the ratchet 60 between the open, closed, and neutral positions, as indicated by the arrow 164 between the circular areas 162, 166. For example, when the ratchet 60 is within the sensing range of the second inductive sensor 144, the second inductive sensor 144 can be used to detect that the ratchet 60 is in the closed position. When neither the second inductive sensor 144 nor the third inductive sensor 146 detects the ratchet 60, the control logic associated with the sensors can determine that the ratchet 60 is in the neutral position, outside the sensing range of both the second inductive sensor 144 and the third inductive position sensor 146. When the ratchet 60 is within the sensing range of the third inductive sensor 146 and the third inductive position sensor 146 detects the ratchet 60, the operating position of the ratchet 60 can be determined to be in the open position.

[0066] The fourth inductive position sensor 152 can detect that the tightening lever 53 is in its original operating position, as indicated by the circular area 170. The circular area 170 can also indicate to the control logic that the ratchet 60 has moved to the secondary operating position in order to trigger the start of the tightening operation, thereby moving the ratchet 60 from the secondary striker capture position toward the primary striker capture position during the actuation movement of the tightening lever 53 between the operating positions.

[0067] When the pawl 70 is within the detection range of the fifth inductive position sensor 154, the fifth inductive position sensor 154 can detect that the pawl 70 is in the ratchet holding position, as indicated by circle 172. When the fifth inductive position sensor 154 does not detect the position of the pawl 70, which has moved to the release operation position along the release direction indicated by arrow 173, the control logic can infer that the pawl 70 is being successfully moved by the power release gear 90 to release the ratchet 60 from engagement with the pawl 70.

[0068] The sixth inductive position sensor 156 can detect that the PR gear 90 is in the fully released position, as indicated by arrow 174, after the PR gear 90 has moved from its original operating position to outside the detection range of the sixth inductive position sensor 156.

[0069] However, these are merely examples, and any or all of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156 may be in different positions to detect one or more different parts of the latch assembly 22 and / or different positions of the latch parts 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 moving into or out of the detection range of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156 as described and shown in this disclosure. One or more sensors 141 may sense disturbances or changes in the magnetic field output by one or more sensors 141 due to the influence of the metal parts associated with the latch parts 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 on the magnetic field of the associated sensor 141. Illustratively, the portions of the latch parts 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 that affect the magnetic field generated by the sensor 141 are shown using a "+" sign, but such portions may be larger or smaller than those marked with a "+" sign. The influence of a metal component may be due to the metal component entering or leaving the magnetic field, or altering the magnetic field as the metal component moves within it. Control logic associated with one or more sensors 141 can be adapted to determine changes in the magnetic field through the interaction of latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 with the magnetic field. For example, one or more sensors 141 can detect disturbances in the generated field when latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 enter, move through, and / or leave the field generated by one or more sensors 141.

[0070] Now refer to Figure 3A schematic block diagram of a sensing system 128 for detecting the position of components in latch assembly 22 is shown. Sensing system 128 includes multiple electrical or electronic components that can be attached to or integrated within PCB 126 for sensing the position of latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90. Sensing system 128 includes sensor monitoring circuitry 130, which may include one or more integrated circuits for interfacing with and managing inductive position sensors. Sensing system 128 may be part of or separate from latch controller 13. Sensor monitoring circuitry 130 may include, for example, an LX34312 device from Microchip Technology. However, other devices may be used. Sensor monitoring circuit 130 defines a ground terminal GND, a first oscillator output terminal OSC1, a second oscillator output terminal OSC2, a first input terminal CL1, and a second input terminal CL2 for connection to inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156. Sensor monitoring circuit 130 can be connected to inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 arranged sequentially. Illustratively, the arrangement of inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 is shown in series in two loops L1 and L2. As illustrated, the first inductive position sensor 142, the second inductive position sensor 144, and the third inductive position sensor 146 are connected in series to form loop L1. The fourth inductive position sensor 152, the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 are connected in series to form loop L2. The first inductive position sensor 142 is connected to OSC1 and CL1, and the third inductive position sensor 146 is connected to GND. The fourth inductive position sensor 152 is connected to OSC2 and CL2, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 is connected to GND.

[0071] Other types of arrangement structures can be provided, such as parallel arrangement structures or combinations of parallel and series arrangement structures. In some embodiments, the sensor monitoring circuit 130 can be configured to determine the positions of latching components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 by distinguishing between multiple discrete detection operation positions based on the presence or absence of a metal target within the corresponding detection area.

[0072] The sensing system 128 also includes a first inductive position sensor 142, a second inductive position sensor 144, a third inductive position sensor 146, a fourth inductive position sensor 152, a fifth inductive position sensor 154, and a sixth inductive position sensor 156.

[0073] Each of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 may include two or more coils that can be implemented using conductive traces on PCB 126. Each of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 can output a sensor signal to the motion plane of latching members 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. Illustratively, the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 are configured to generate a magnetic field as an output sensor signal, whereby the magnetic field of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 is altered by the interaction of the metal of latching members 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90 with the magnetic field.

[0074] Each of the inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 may each include transmitting coils 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, and 156a and / or receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, and 156b. The transmitting coil 142a of the first inductive position sensor 142, the transmitting coil 144a of the second inductive position sensor 144, and the transmitting coil 146a of the third inductive position sensor 146 are each connected in series via a first transmitting conductor 132 between the first oscillator output terminal OSC1 of the sensor monitoring circuit 130 and the power supply terminal 150. A bias voltage Vin can be applied to the power supply terminal 150 via a power supply (not shown). The receiving coil 142b of the first inductive position sensor 142, the receiving coil 144b of the second inductive position sensor 144, and the receiving coil 146b of the third inductive position sensor 146 are each connected in series via a first receiving conductor 134 between a grounding conductor 136 connected to a ground terminal GND and a first input terminal CL1 of the sensor monitoring circuit 130. The sensor monitoring circuit 130 can be configured to generate an excitation signal at a first oscillator output terminal OSC1. In a possible configuration, the excitation signal can be an alternating signal, and specifically an alternating current signal.

[0075] The transmitting coil 152a of the fourth inductive position sensor 152, the transmitting coil 154a of the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the transmitting coil 156a of the sixth inductive position sensor 156 are each connected in series via the second transmitting conductor 140 between the second oscillator output terminal OSC2 and the power supply terminal 150 of the sensor monitoring circuit 130. The receiving coil 152b of the fourth inductive position sensor 152, the receiving coil 154b of the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the receiving coil 156b of the sixth inductive position sensor 156 are each connected in series via the second receiving conductor 138 between the grounding conductor 136 and the second input terminal CL2 of the sensor monitoring circuit 130.

[0076] The receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, and 156b are configured to sense changes in the generated magnetic field using, for example, magnetic induction. As a result, the current-carrying conductors of the receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, and 156b generate an induced current when subjected to a changing magnetic field (e.g., caused by the movement of the metal portions of latching members 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90). This induced current can be detected by the sensor monitoring circuit 130 via input terminals CL1 and CL2.

[0077] like Figure 3 As shown, inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 are connected together in sequence. The illustrated sequence may include sensor 142 as the first sensor, sensor 144 as the next sensor, and sensor 146 as the last sensor in the sequence. Each transmitting coil 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, 156a of the corresponding inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156 includes input nodes 142c, 144c, 146c, 152c, 154c, 156c and output nodes 142d, 144d, 146d, 152d, 154d, 156d connected together by the current-carrying conductors of the coils (e.g., input node 142c is connected to line 132, input node 144c is connected to output node 142d, input node 146c is connected to output node 144d, input node 152c is connected to line 140, input node 154c is connected to output node 152d, input node 156c is connected to output node 154d, and output nodes 146d, 156d are connected to a common power supply terminal 150). The input node 142c of the first sensor 142 is connected to the sensor monitoring circuit 130 to receive the excitation signal from the output terminal OSC1 of the first oscillator.

[0078] The series connection of the output nodes 142d, 144d, 146d, 152d, 154d of the preceding sensor 141 with the corresponding input nodes 144c, 146c, 152c, 154c, 156c of the next sensor 141 in the sequence will cause the excitation signal to be transmitted to each transmitting coil 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, 156a. The excitation signal traveling through each transmitting coil 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, 156a will correspondingly cause the generation of a field in the adjacent corresponding transmitting coil 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, 156a. The output nodes 146c, 156c of the last inductive position sensors 146, 156 in the sequence are connected to a voltage biasing section. A voltage bias is provided by connecting to power terminal 150, but it should be understood that a voltage bias can also be provided by connecting to ground terminal. The illustrative connections of the transmitting coils 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, and 156a together form the first circuit 131. Any interconnecting traces between the transmitting coils 142a, 144a, 146a, 152a, 154a, and 156a can be printed onto PCB 126 to form the first circuit 131. The first circuit 131 can be disposed on a first side of PCB 126.

[0079] Similarly, each receiving coil 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, 156b of the corresponding inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156b includes input nodes 142e, 144e, 146e, 152e, 154e, 156e and output nodes 142f, 144f, 146f, 152f, 154f, 156f connected together by the current-carrying conductors of the coils. The input node 142e of the first sensor 142 is connected to the first input terminal CL1. The series connection of the output nodes 142g, 144g, 146g, 152g, 154g of the preceding sensor 141 with the input nodes 144f, 146f, 152f, 154f, 156f of the following sensor 141 in the sequence will cause the current induced in the receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, 156b (via the changing magnetic field caused by the interaction of the metal part with the generated magnetic field) to be cumulatively combined, thereby detecting the voltage level at the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2. The output nodes 146f, 156f of the last inductive position sensors 146, 156 in the sequence are connected to a voltage bias section. The voltage bias section is provided by connecting to the ground terminal 136, but it should be understood that the voltage bias section can also be provided by connecting to the power supply terminal. The illustrative connections of receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, and 156b together form the second circuit 133. Any interconnecting traces between receiving coils 142b, 144b, 146b, 152b, 154b, and 156b can be printed onto PCB 126 to form the second circuit 133. The second circuit 133 can be disposed on a second side of PCB 126.

[0080] With latch assembly 22 in the open position, sensor monitoring circuit 130 can determine the positions of latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, 90 by detecting the voltage on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2 as sensor data, as illustrated in the table below, where 0 indicates that the target does not exist, and 1 indicates that the target exists in a given area adjacent to or otherwise associated with one of the corresponding inductive position sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156.

[0081]

[0082] When latch assembly 22 is in the open position, each of the third inductive position sensor 146, the fourth inductive position sensor 152, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 can be activated by the corresponding latch member adjacent to it among the latch members 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of the components can be sensed by sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 1.0 V and -1.25 V on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively. The sensor monitoring circuit 130 can use the detected different voltage levels to distinguish between multiple possible positions of the plurality of latch members 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90 relative to the plurality of non-contact sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156.

[0083] When latch assembly 22 is in the secondary position, each of the fourth inductive position sensor 152, the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 can be activated by the corresponding latch component adjacent to it among latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of components can be sensed by sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 0.0 V and -1.25 V on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively.

[0084] When the latch assembly 22 is between the subposition and the tightening start position, each of the fifth inductive position sensor 154 and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 can be activated by the corresponding latch component adjacent to it among the latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of the components can be sensed by the sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 0.0 V and -1.5 V on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively.

[0085] When the latch assembly 22 is between the master position and the fully extended position, each of the second inductive position sensor 144, the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 can be activated by the corresponding latch component adjacent to it among the latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of the components can be sensed by the sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 0.5 V and -1.5 V on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively.

[0086] When the latch assembly 22 is between the master position and the power release position, each of the first inductive position sensor 142, the second inductive position sensor 144, the fourth inductive position sensor 152, the fifth inductive position sensor 154, and the sixth inductive position sensor 156 can be activated by the corresponding latch component adjacent to it among the latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of the components can be sensed by the sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 0.75 V and -1.75 V on the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively.

[0087] When the latch assembly 22 is between the open position and the fully released position, each of the first inductive position sensor 142, the second inductive position sensor 144, and the fourth inductive position sensor 152 can be activated by the corresponding latch component adjacent to it among the latch components 53, 60, 70, 73, and 90. This particular arrangement of the components can be sensed by the sensor monitoring circuit 130 as voltages of 0.75 V and -0.25 V at the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2, respectively. The voltages at the first input terminal CL1 and the second input terminal CL2 can be the sum of the voltage drops across the plurality of non-contact sensors 142, 144, and 146 in loop L1 and the plurality of non-contact sensors 152, 154, and 156 in loop L2. The current induced in each coil of the coils of sensors 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 can cause a detectable voltage drop across the resistance provided by the current flowing through the coil.

[0088] The polarity and amplitude of the detected voltage can depend on the circuit orientation and bias, and the values ​​shown in the figure are exemplary.

[0089] The control system, such as latch controller 13, can receive the sensor data and can interpret the sensor data, for example, by using a lookup table stored in the memory of latch controller 13, to determine the position of the associated latching component, and more broadly, to determine, for example, latching state, such as locked state, unlocked state, released state, tightened state, overtravel state, secondary position state, primary position state.

[0090] This disclosure provides a latching assembly for a vehicle closure. The latching assembly includes: a latching mechanism having a plurality of latching members; a non-contact sensor configured to detect the position of at least one target; and sensor monitoring circuitry functionally communicating with the non-contact sensor. Each latching member is movable to define a plurality of operating positions of the latching mechanism. The sensor monitoring circuitry is configured to determine the position of at least one of the plurality of latching members based on the detected position of at least one metallic target.

[0091] In some embodiments, the multiple latching components include a rod having a body, wherein the body of the rod defines at least one metallic target. In possible configurations, the latching component is a rod having a metallic body. Alternatively or additionally, the metallic target may be another portion of the rod or another latching component and / or a component attached thereto, such as a baffle.

[0092] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuit is configured to perform a Boolean determination regarding the presence of metal within a given area associated with a non-contact sensor, for detecting the location of at least one metal target. For example, the sensor monitoring circuit may perform an on / off or presence / absence determination for each non-contact sensor in the non-contact sensor suite, such as the determinations described above and shown in Tables 1 and 2.

[0093] In some implementations, the non-contact sensor is an inductive proximity sensor having a transmitting coil and a receiving coil, and the inductive proximity sensor is operable to detect at least one metallic target in a given area adjacent to it.

[0094] In some implementations, the non-contact sensor may be an optical field sensor, such as an infrared sensor, or an LED sensor configured to emit a wave that may be absorbed or reflected by a latching component that is in or outside the optical field path, wherein such reflection or absorption may be detected by the non-contact sensor.

[0095] In some implementations, the non-contact sensor is one of a plurality of non-contact sensors, each of which communicates functionally with a sensor monitoring circuit, and each of the plurality of non-contact sensors is configured to detect the presence of a corresponding latching component among a plurality of latching components in a given area adjacent to it.

[0096] In some implementations, each of the plurality of non-contact sensors includes a receiving coil, and the receiving coils of the plurality of non-contact sensors are daisy-chained to a common input terminal of the sensor monitoring circuit.

[0097] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuit is configured to detect the voltage on a common input terminal, and thereby distinguish between multiple different possible arrangements of the multiple latching components relative to the multiple non-contact sensors. For example, the sensor monitoring circuit can distinguish between multiple different possible arrangements of the multiple latching components as described above and shown in Tables 1 and 2.

[0098] In some implementations, each of the plurality of non-contact sensors includes a receiving coil. The receiving coils of one group of the plurality of non-contact sensors are daisy-chained to a first common input terminal of the sensor monitoring circuit, and the receiving coils of another group of the plurality of non-contact sensors are daisy-chained to a second common input terminal of the sensor monitoring circuit. For example, the plurality of non-contact sensors can be as follows: Figure 3 The arrangement shown is as described above.

[0099] In some embodiments, the latch assembly further includes a printed circuit board (PCB), and the sensor monitoring circuitry and the non-contact sensor are each disposed on or formed within the PCB. For example, the sensor monitoring circuitry may be formed at least partially by an integrated circuit mounted on the PCB. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the inductive position sensors may be used as non-contact sensors and may include two or more coils that can be implemented using conductive traces on the PCB.

[0100] In some implementations, the printed circuit board extends in a plane covering multiple latching components, and the sensor monitoring circuitry includes one or more coils defined by conductors within the plane of the printed circuit board. For example, one or more inductive position sensors can be used as non-contact sensors and can include two or more coils that can be implemented using conductive traces on PCB 126.

[0101] In some embodiments, the plurality of latching components includes at least one of the following: a release lever, a pawl, a tightening lever, a ratchet, and a power release gear. For example, the plurality of latching components may include one or more of the following: a release lever 73, a pawl 70, a tightening lever 53, a ratchet 60, and / or a power release gear 90 of the latch release mechanism 54. In some embodiments, the plurality of latching components includes each of the following: a release lever, a pawl, a tightening lever, a ratchet, and a power release gear.

[0102] In some implementations, the non-contact sensor is one of a plurality of non-contact sensors, each of which communicates functionally with a sensor monitoring circuit, and each of the plurality of non-contact sensors is configured to detect the presence or absence of a corresponding latching component among a plurality of latching components in a given area adjacent to it.

[0103] In some embodiments, the sensor monitoring circuitry is also configured to transmit the status of the latch assembly to a remote electronic control unit based on the location of at least one latching component. For example, sensor monitoring circuitry 130 may be configured to provide status feedback on the status of the latch assembly to the vehicle's body control module (BCM), the status of which is defined by the location of one or more latching components. In some embodiments, the sensor monitoring circuitry is also configured to communicate with an electronic control unit local to the latch assembly housing 40. In some embodiments, the sensor monitoring circuitry may be integrated into a portion of the latch controller 13. The latch controller 13 may include various hardware and software components integrated into the latch assembly 22. For example, the latch controller 13 may be mounted on the baseboard 126 or on a separate printed circuit board housing within the latch assembly 22. Alternatively, the latch controller 13 may be remote. An example of a latch controller 13 native to latch assembly 22 is shown and described in co-owned patent publication No. US20250327345A1 entitled “Boosterless electronic latch circuit”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0104] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuit includes an integrated circuit defining an oscillator output terminal and an input terminal, and each of the oscillator output terminal and input terminal of the sensor monitoring circuit is connected to a corresponding coil of the non-contact sensor. For example, the sensor monitoring circuit can be arranged as follows: Figure 3 This is shown as part of the sensing system 128 described above.

[0105] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuitry may be associated with an actuator assembly that is linked to the latch assembly, such as a remote tightening actuator, a remote ice-breaking actuator, or a remote presentation actuator.

[0106] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuitry may be associated with a powered side door actuator for moving the closure relative to the vehicle body between an open position and a closed position.

[0107] In some implementations, the sensor monitoring circuitry may be associated with a window adjuster assembly used to move the window panel relative to the vehicle door between an open and closed position.

[0108] This disclosure also provides a vehicle that includes the subject matter latching assembly. In some embodiments, the closure is a passenger door of the vehicle. However, the subject matter latching assembly can have other applications, such as for a tailgate or liftgate of a motor vehicle, or for a hood or front trunk.

[0109] This disclosure also provides a latching assembly for a vehicle closure, the latching assembly comprising: a latching mechanism having a plurality of latching members; and sensor monitoring circuitry functionally communicating with a non-contact sensor. Each of the plurality of latching members is movable to define a plurality of operating positions of the latching mechanism. The plurality of latching members includes a release lever having a metallic body. A non-contact sensor is configured to detect the body of the release lever within a given area adjacent to the non-contact sensor.

[0110] In some implementations, the non-contact sensor is one of a plurality of non-contact sensors, each of which communicates functionally with a sensor monitoring circuit, and each of the plurality of non-contact sensors is configured to detect the presence of a corresponding latching component among a plurality of latching components in a corresponding region adjacent to it.

[0111] In some embodiments, the latch assembly further includes a printed circuit board, sensor monitoring circuitry, and non-contact sensors, each disposed on or formed within the printed circuit board, and the printed circuit board extends in a plane covering the plurality of latch components, wherein the sensor monitoring circuitry includes one or more coils defined by conductors within the plane of the printed circuit board.

[0112] The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Elements or features of a particular embodiment may also vary in many ways. Such variations are not considered to depart from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0113] The embodiments of the present invention can be understood with reference to the following numbered paragraphs:

[0114] 1. A latching assembly for a vehicle closure, the latching assembly comprising:

[0115] A latching mechanism having at least one latching component, each of which is movable to an operating position;

[0116] A non-contact sensor arrangement configured to detect the presence of at least one of the latching components relative to a given area adjacent to the latching component; and

[0117] A sensor monitoring circuit that communicates functionally with the non-contact sensor arrangement and is configured to determine the position of at least one of the latching components based on the detected presence.

[0118] 2. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement is configured to detect at least one metal portion of the latch component.

[0119] 3. The latch assembly according to paragraph 2, wherein at least one of the latch components includes a body, and wherein the body is formed of metal to define the metal portion.

[0120] 4. The latch assembly according to paragraph 2, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement is not configured to detect a magnet mounted on at least one latch component in the latch assembly.

[0121] 5. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes at least one non-contact sensor, each of the at least one non-contact sensor being configured to generate a field in the given region to detect the presence of at least one of the latch components, wherein each non-contact sensor is configured to detect interference with the field due to the interaction of at least one of the latch components with the field.

[0122] 6. The latch assembly according to paragraph 5, wherein at least one of the non-contact sensors comprises a plurality of non-contact sensors electrically connected to the sensor monitoring circuit, wherein the plurality of non-contact sensors are sequentially connected to each other.

[0123] 7. The latching assembly according to paragraph 6, wherein one of the non-contact sensors defines a first non-contact sensor in sequence, and the other non-contact sensor defines a last non-contact sensor in sequence.

[0124] 8. The latch assembly according to paragraph 7, wherein the sensor monitoring circuit is adapted to apply an excitation signal to the sensor arrangement structure to cause each non-contact sensor to generate the field.

[0125] 9. The latching assembly according to paragraph 8, wherein each non-contact sensor includes an input node and an output node, wherein at least one of the non-contact sensors has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to the output node of another non-contact sensor, and wherein at least one of the non-contact sensors has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to the sensor monitoring circuit to receive the excitation signal.

[0126] 10. The latch assembly according to paragraph 9, wherein the excitation signal is an alternating signal.

[0127] 11. The latch assembly according to paragraph 10, wherein the output node of the last non-contact sensor in sequence is connected to the voltage bias section.

[0128] 12. The latching assembly according to paragraph 7, wherein each non-contact sensor has a first coil configured to generate the field in response to receiving the excitation signal, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes a first circuit that interconnects a plurality of the first coils in a series arrangement.

[0129] 13. The latching assembly according to paragraph 12, wherein each non-contact sensor has a second coil configured to generate a current in response to being subjected to a generated field, the generated field being modified by at least one of the latching components interacting with the generated field, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes a second circuit that interconnects a plurality of the second coils in a series arrangement.

[0130] 14. The latch assembly according to paragraph 13, wherein the sensor monitoring circuit is configured to detect the voltage level of the second circuit generated by the plurality of second coils, thereby distinguishing between a plurality of different possible positions of at least one of the latch components relative to the plurality of non-contact sensors.

[0131] 15. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1 further includes a printed circuit board, wherein the sensor monitoring circuit and the sensor arrangement structure are each disposed on or formed within the printed circuit board.

[0132] 16. The latch assembly according to paragraph 15,

[0133] Each non-contact sensor has a first coil configured to generate a field in response to receiving an excitation signal from the sensor monitoring circuit. The non-contact sensor arrangement includes a first circuit that interconnects a plurality of the first coils in series.

[0134] Each non-contact sensor has a second coil configured to generate a current in response to a generated field, the generated field being modified by at least one of the latching components that interact with the generated field, wherein the non-contact sensor arrangement includes a second circuit that interconnects a plurality of the second coils in series.

[0135] The printed circuit board includes a first side and an opposite second side, wherein the first circuit is printed on the first side and the second circuit is printed on the second side.

[0136] 17. The latch assembly according to paragraph 15, wherein the printed circuit board extends in a plane covering the plurality of said latch components, and wherein the sensor monitoring circuit includes one or more coils defined by conductors within the plane of the printed circuit board.

[0137] 18. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1, wherein the plurality of latch components include at least one of the following: a release lever, a pawl, a tightening lever, a ratchet, and a power release gear.

[0138] 19. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1, wherein the sensor monitoring circuit is further configured to transmit the state of the latch assembly to the latch controller based on the determined position of at least one of the latch components.

[0139] 20. The latch assembly according to paragraph 1, wherein the closure is a passenger door of the vehicle.

Claims

1. A latch assembly (22) for a closure of a vehicle, the latch assembly (22) comprising: A latching mechanism having at least one latching component (53, 60, 70, 73, 90), each of which is movable to an operating position; A non-contact sensor arrangement (141) is configured to detect the presence of at least one of the latching components relative to a given area adjacent to the latching component; as well as A sensor monitoring circuit (130) is functionally in communication with the non-contact sensor arrangement and configured to determine the position of at least one of the latching components based on the detected presence.

2. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The non-contact sensor arrangement (141) is configured to detect the metal portion of at least one of the latching components (53, 60, 70, 73, 90).

3. The latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein, At least one of the latching components (53, 60, 70, 73, 90) includes a body, wherein the body is formed of metal to define the metal portion.

4. The latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The non-contact sensor arrangement (141) is not configured to detect magnets mounted on at least one of the latching components (53, 60, 70, 73, 90).

5. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The non-contact sensor arrangement (141) includes at least one non-contact sensor (142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156), each of the at least one non-contact sensor (142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156) being configured to generate a field in the given region to detect the presence of at least one latching member (53, 60, 70, 73, 90), wherein each non-contact sensor is configured to detect interference with the field due to the interaction between the latching member and the field.

6. The latch assembly according to claim 5, wherein, At least one of the non-contact sensors (142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156) includes a plurality of non-contact sensors electrically communicating with the sensor monitoring circuit (130), wherein the plurality of non-contact sensors are connected to each other in sequence.

7. The latch assembly of claim 6, wherein, The non-contact sensor is defined as the first non-contact sensor (142) in a non-contact sensor sequence, and the other non-contact sensor is defined as the last non-contact sensor (146, 156) in a non-contact sensor sequence.

8. The latch assembly of claim 7, wherein, The sensor monitoring circuit (130) is adapted to apply an excitation signal to the non-contact sensor arrangement (141) to cause each non-contact sensor to generate the field.

9. The latch assembly of claim 8, wherein, Each non-contact sensor (142, 144, 146, 152, 154, 156) includes an input node (142c, 144c, 146c, 152c, 154c, 156c) and an output node (142d, 144d, 146d, 152d, 154d, 156d), wherein at least one of the non-contact sensors has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to the output node of another non-contact sensor, and wherein at least one of the non-contact sensors has an input node of the non-contact sensor connected to the sensor monitoring circuit (130) to receive the excitation signal.

10. The latch assembly of claim 9, wherein, The excitation signal is an alternating signal.

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