Collapsible Latch Module Bracket for Narrow Door Apertures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Lighter vehicle designs with smaller door configurations present challenges in efficiently inserting and installing door latch modules due to insufficient space for assembly.

Innovation Solution

A latch module assembly featuring a channel with a tab and catch mechanism that allows the bracket and handle assembly to move between a collapsed and installed position, enabling the latch module to be compressed for insertion through smaller openings and expanded for secure attachment, facilitating easier assembly within vehicle doors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the door latch module is designed with a standard size for secure installation, then the installation reliability is improved, but the device cannot be inserted through smaller openings in lighter vehicle designs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation reliabilityVSAvoidlatch module width

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket is designed to be movable between a collapsed position (reducing width for insertion) and an installed position (providing full functionality). This dynamic transformation allows the latch module to adapt its dimensions based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between installation reliability and insertability through smaller openings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The handle assembly is positioned within the bracket structure in a nested arrangement. When the bracket collapses, the handle assembly is contained within the reduced profile, allowing the entire latch module to pass through smaller openings while maintaining all functional components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If the bracket is collapsed to reduce width for insertion, then the ease of insertion is improved, but the structural stability during installation may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of insertionVSAvoidstructural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The channel is first secured to the door in a stable position, providing a fixed reference structure. Then the bracket is collapsed and inserted through the opening, and only after proper positioning is the bracket extended to its installed position and secured to the channel. This preliminary securing of the channel ensures structural stability is maintained throughout the installation process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The channel acts as an intermediary structure that is first secured to the door, providing a stable mounting platform. The bracket then connects to this stable channel structure, allowing the bracket to be collapsed for insertion while knowing it will attach to a already-secured stable structure, thus maintaining overall structural stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11577586B2Collapsible side door latch module

Publication Date: 2023.02.14 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC

AI summary

A discloses latch module assembly includes a channel and a bracket supported on the channel. The bracket supports a handle assembly and is movable between a collapsed position and an installed position to enable assembly through small openings within a door. A method of installing a door latch module assembly is also disclosed.