Door Handle Declutching Mechanism With Mechanical Backup Release
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing declutching systems for motor vehicle door latches are complex and expensive, and fail to provide a reliable backup mechanism when the electrical system is inoperable, such as during a crash or battery drain.
Innovation Solution
A declutching system with a reversible deformable leg that switches between clutch and declutch positions based on torque threshold, allowing a backup mechanical actuator to open the door when electrical failure occurs, using a simplified design with fewer components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex declutching system with multiple members is used, then the door can be opened mechanically when electrical system fails, but the system becomes more expensive and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical actuator and mechanical declutching system into a single integrated unit. The electrical actuator directly drives the cam mechanism that operates the latch, eliminating the need for separate mechanical linkages and reducing the number of parts while maintaining both electrical and mechanical opening capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical actuator serves dual functions: it acts as the primary electrical opening mechanism and simultaneously serves as part of the mechanical opening system through its direct connection to the cam mechanism. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain reliability through mechanical backup without adding separate dedicated mechanical components
2Device complexity
If a simplified declutching system with fewer components is used, then the system becomes more compact and cost-effective, but may compromise the reliability of the backup mechanical mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical actuator is designed to automatically engage the cam mechanism without requiring separate declutching components. When electrical power is available, the actuator directly drives the cam; when power fails, the mechanical connection automatically engages, allowing the system to self-regulate between electrical and mechanical modes without additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a cam mechanism with curved surfaces that provide smooth transition between electrical and mechanical operation. The cam profile is designed to automatically transfer load from the electrical actuator to the mechanical latch release mechanism, ensuring reliable mechanical backup engagement through geometric design rather than complex control systems
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
Provides a compact, cost-effective solution that offers haptic feedback under normal conditions and ensures door opening through a mechanical backup in abnormal circumstances, maintaining functionality without additional parts.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one reversible deformable leg is deformed in the direction of the body and thereof enabling the rotationally displacement of the housing around the axle
Data Source
AI summary
A declutching system for handle arrangement of a motor vehicle includes: an axle whereon are arranged a housing and a declutching member. The declutching system presents two positions: a clutch position wherein the declutching member blocks the housing in rotation around the axle by cooperating with at least one cam of the housing, and a declutch position wherein the declutching member allows the housing to rotate around the axle. The declutching member includes a body to which extends at least one reversible deformable leg. In the clutched position, the at least one reversible deformable leg cooperates with the at least one cam of the housing and blocks into rotation the housing around the axle. In the declutched position, the at least one reversible deformable leg is deformed in the direction of the body and thereof enabling the rotationally displacement of the housing around the axle.