Common Sensor Detects Latch Positions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power-assisted door latch systems for vehicles face complexity in component configurations and large assembly footprints, along with challenges in reliable position detection, especially for multiple latch geometries, which complicates sensor calibration and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A position detection system for vehicle closure panels that includes a housing with a pivotally mounted ratchet and pawl, where a single position sensor detects both the primary and secondary positions of the ratchet, simplifying the detection process and reducing the need for multiple sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple position sensors are used to detect different latch positions, then position detection reliability is improved, but device complexity and assembly footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a single position sensor that can detect multiple latch positions (primary and secondary positions) through different switching states. The sensor is configured to detect different positions of the ratchet mechanism, allowing one sensor to perform multiple detection functions that would traditionally require multiple sensors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of multiple position sensors into a single sensor system. By combining the detection capabilities for primary position, secondary position, and transition states into one sensor, the system reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall sensor configuration while still providing comprehensive position monitoring
2Reliability
If multiple position sensors are used to detect different latch positions, then position detection coverage is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single position sensor is designed with multi-functional capability to detect various latch positions and states. This universal sensor replaces multiple specialized sensors, directly reducing component costs and manufacturing expenses while maintaining comprehensive position detection coverage across all operational states
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are configured for different latch geometries, then detection accuracy is improved, but calibration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal position sensor that can adapt to different latch geometries and detect multiple positions without requiring separate calibration procedures for each configuration. The sensor's design allows it to maintain detection accuracy across various latch types while eliminating the complex calibration process that would be necessary with multiple specialized sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A latch for a closure panel of a vehicle comprising: a housing; a ratchet pivotally mounted the housing for moving between an open position and a primary position; a pawl pivotally mounted on the housing, the pawl biased towards the ratchet for holding the ratchet in a secondary position and in the primary position, the secondary position located between the open position and the primary position; and a position sensor for detecting a first position of the ratchet when at the primary position as well as a second position when the ratchet is at the secondary position.