Asymmetrical Hinge Counterbalance Mechanism for Vehicle Closure Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle closure panel systems, such as lift gates, have bulky form factors that occupy valuable cargo space, require additional support systems, and impose high manual effort requirements due to counterbalance mechanisms and temperature fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A hinge-based counterbalance mechanism using a pair of torsion elements positioned in a non-overlapping manner, which connects the closure panel to the vehicle body through mechanical couplings, providing counterbalance torque without external struts, allowing for efficient opening and closing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional struts with springs are used for power operation, then counterbalance torque is provided, but the system becomes bulky and occupies valuable cargo space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hinge mechanism and counterbalance system into a single integrated assembly. The torsion rod is mounted directly on the hinge body, and the piston rod connects to the hinge arm, merging previously separate components (strut, spring, hinge) into one compact unit that provides both positioning and counterbalance functions without occupying additional cargo space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the counterbalance mechanism within the hinge structure. The torsion rod is positioned inside or alongside the hinge body, and the piston rod is integrated into the hinge arm assembly, creating a nested configuration where components are arranged concentrically or in overlapping spaces, significantly reducing the overall volume required
2Reliability
If additional lift support systems such as gas struts are used, then counterbalance is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hinge mechanism and counterbalance system into a single integrated assembly. The torsion rod is mounted directly on the hinge body, and the piston rod connects to the hinge arm, merging previously separate components (strut, spring, hinge) into one compact unit that provides both positioning and counterbalance functions
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly performs multiple functions: it provides the mechanical connection between gate and body, enables rotational movement, and generates counterbalance torque through the torsion rod. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate gas struts or spring mechanisms
3Device complexity
If manual opening and closing is performed without counterbalance assistance, then system simplicity is maintained, but operator effort increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion rod automatically generates counterbalance torque as the hinge rotates, providing assistance during gate operation without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The mechanism self-regulates based on the gate position, reducing operator effort while maintaining mechanical simplicity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the size and weight of the counterbalance system, minimizes manual effort, and maintains operational efficiency across varying temperatures, while optimizing cargo space and access size.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of torsion elements each having a free end coupled to a respective gear and a fixed end coupled to either of the body side portion or the body, the fixed end inhibited from rotating relative to the free end and the free end able to rotate about a torsion axis of the torsion element
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge based counterbalance mechanism for operating a hinge of a closure panel of a vehicle to assist in opening and closing of the closure panel between a closed position and an open position, the hinge based counterbalance mechanism including: a pair of hinges each having a body side portion for connecting to a body of the vehicle and a panel side portion for connecting to the closure panel, the body side portion and the panel side portion coupled to one another by a respective mechanical coupling; a pair of torsion elements each having a free end coupled to a respective gear and a fixed end coupled to either of the body side portion or the body, the fixed end inhibited from rotating relative to the free end and the free end able to rotate about a torsion axis of the torsion element; wherein the pair of torsion elements are positioned relative to one another in a non-overlapping manner.