Vehicle Closure Panel Actuation Below Vision Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching systems for vehicle closure panels add unnecessary weight and expense, making them inefficient for electrified vehicles that require additional cargo space.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle compartment system with a tub and a movable closure panel, actuating assembly including a strut and linkage, which automatically raises and slides the panel below the vehicle's down vision line for access, reducing weight and cost while maintaining accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional latching systems are used for closure panels, then the closure panel can be latched and unlatched, but the vehicle weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional latching mechanism entirely from the closure panel system. Instead of using mechanical latches and linkages, the closure panel is designed to be held closed by its own weight and geometry, with the panel simply dropping into place when opened. This extraction of the latching function eliminates the associated weight and cost while maintaining the essential latching and unlatching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure panel serves its own latching function through its design. The panel's weight and geometric configuration create a self-latching effect where the panel naturally remains closed without additional mechanical components. When opened, the panel self-unlatches by simply being lifted, eliminating the need for separate latching mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the closure panel is positioned for easy access, then accessibility is improved, but the driver's vision is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the closure panel opening trajectory in a different spatial dimension relative to the driver's line of sight. The panel opens upward and outward in an arc that clears the driver's forward vision path, allowing easy access while preventing vision obstruction. This dimensional repositioning of the opening motion resolves the conflict between accessibility and driver visibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle compartment system includes a tub establishing a storage compartment and a closure panel movable between a closed position and an open position for accessing the storage compartment. The closure panel is maintained below a vehicle down vision line in the open position. The closure panel may be raised from the closed position to a position above the storage compartment and then may be automatically slid rearward to the open position.