Actuation Device Locking Mechanism for Fuel Tank Flap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuation devices for fuel tank flaps in automobiles require high resilient forces to prevent unintentional opening, which reduces comfort and may produce noise, and do not allow for simple preparatory measures before opening, such as pressure reduction in hybrid vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An actuation device with a first and second actuation part that engage in a locking position, allowing relative movement, and a sensor device to detect this movement, enabling secure locking without high resilient forces and allowing for preparatory measures like pressure reduction before opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring is used to pretension the fuel tank flap into the closed position with high resilient force to prevent unintentional opening, then the reliability of preventing unintentional opening is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates and noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation device is divided into two separate actuation parts: a first actuation part secured to the flap and a second actuation part secured to the component. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single high-force spring system, allowing the locking function to be achieved through the engagement geometry of the two parts instead of relying solely on high resilient force.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static high-force spring pretensioning system to a dynamic engagement system where the actuation parts move relative to each other. The locking element and locking reception engage during the movement process, allowing the system to maintain reliability through positional locking rather than continuous high-force pretensioning.
2Reliability
If high resilient forces are applied to secure the flap in the closed position, then the reliability of preventing unintentional opening is improved, but harmful noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the actuation into two parts that engage through a locking mechanism, the system replaces the continuous high-force spring contact with a discrete engagement process. The locking element engages with the locking reception in a controlled manner during movement, significantly reducing impact noise compared to high-force spring pretensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the purely mechanical spring-force-based securing system with a engagement-based locking system. Instead of relying on high resilient force to prevent opening, the system uses the geometric engagement of the locking element and locking reception to maintain the closed position, reducing mechanical noise.
3Reliability
If the actuation parts are rigidly connected to prevent any relative movement, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the ability to detect movement for preparatory measures is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to allow controlled relative movement between the actuation parts during the engagement process. The locking element can move within the locking reception to detect preparatory measures (such as pressure reduction in hybrid vehicles) while still providing secure locking when engaged. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides secure locking when engaged, allows detection of preparatory measures through controlled movement, and enables the system to adapt to different vehicle types (including hybrid vehicles requiring pressure reduction). This multi-functionality is achieved through the designed movement capability within the engagement geometry.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an actuation device for a flap mounted moveably on a component between a closed position and an opened position, in particular for a flap mounted moveably on a housing of an automobile, comprising: a first actuation part and a second actuation part which are designed to engage with one another in a movement direction, locking means with a locking reception provided on the first or second actuation part and a locking element provided on the other of the first or second actuation part, wherein the locking element engages in the locking reception during engagement of the actuation parts and thus holds the actuation parts together in a locking position, wherein the locking reception has sufficient size so that in the locking position a relative movement between the locking element and the locking reception in the movement direction of the actuation parts and thereby a corresponding relative movement of the actuation parts in their movement direction with regard to one another is possible, and a sensor device which is designed to detect a relative movement between the locking element and the locking reception in the movement direction in the locking position.