Compact Door Latch Assembly With PCB-Mounted Courtesy Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing door latch devices for vehicles obstruct the trajectory of window glass due to their size and the presence of harnesses connecting circuit boards and switches, hindering miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
A door latch device with a door lock ECU communicably connected to a vehicle body ECU, featuring a printed wiring board with terminals connected to a meshing switch, eliminating the need for a harness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a harness is used to connect the circuit board and switches, then the electrical connections are reliable, but the device size increases and miniaturization is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the circuit board and switches into a single integrated assembly where the switches are mounted directly on the circuit board. This eliminates the need for a separate harness to connect them, thereby reducing device volume while maintaining electrical connection reliability through the integrated design.
2Volume of moving object
If the door latch device is made compact to avoid obstructing window glass trajectory, then the device fits better in the door, but the complexity of wiring increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the switches directly onto the circuit board, the patent eliminates the need for separate wiring harnesses that would add complexity. The compact design is achieved through this integration, allowing the device to fit in the door without obstructing the window glass trajectory while simplifying the overall wiring structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A door latch device includes a latch mechanism, a motor, an electric release mechanism, a manual release mechanism, a lock mechanism, a courtesy switch, and a door lock ECU and the door lock ECU is communicably connected to a vehicle body ECU provided on a main body side of a vehicle. The door lock ECU includes a printed wiring board and each terminal of the courtesy switch is connected to the printed wiring board.