Self-Contained Door Hinge Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of removing and reattaching removable door assemblies on off-road sport utility vehicles is cumbersome and often requires tools and assistance, making it difficult for one person to operate regardless of physical stature.
Innovation Solution
A door hinge assembly with a first hinge member mounted to the vehicle and a second hinge member on the removable door, featuring a locking mechanism and release tab system that allows intuitive removal and reattachment without tools, including an electrical interface and self-centering pins for alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional door hinge assemblies are used for removable door assemblies, then the door can be securely mounted to the vehicle, but the removal and reattachment process becomes cumbersome and requires tools and assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The door hinge assembly is designed to be self-servicing through the resilient release tab that automatically engages and disengages the locking member. The system uses the door's own weight and motion to facilitate removal and reattachment without requiring external tools or assistance from multiple people.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly incorporates dynamic elements including the resilient release tab that can flex between engaged and disengaged states, and the pivotable locking member that moves between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design allows the system to transition between secure mounting and easy removal states.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented in the door hinge assembly, then the door remains firmly attached during operation, but the release mechanism becomes more complex and less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is designed by inverting the traditional approach: instead of requiring active manipulation to engage the lock, the system automatically engages the locking member when the door is in the open position, and requires only simple downward motion on the release tab to disengage. This inversion makes the system both reliable and intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The release function is extracted into a separate, dedicated release tab component that is distinct from the main door structure. This extracted release tab provides a clear, intuitive interface for the user while the rest of the hinge assembly maintains its secure locking function.
3Ease of operation
If the door hinge assembly allows easy removal by one person, then solo operation is enabled, but the mechanism may become overly complex requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the door hinge assembly: the resilient release tab combines the release lever function with the locking engagement function, while the electrical connector integrates the electrical disconnection function with the mechanical separation process. This merging reduces the need for separate components while enabling solo operation.
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
Enables easy and tool-free removal and reattachment of removable door assemblies, facilitating solo operation and reducing physical strain, while maintaining electrical connectivity and mechanical support.
Implementation Method 1
The release tab is resiliently urged to a locked position when the removable door assembly is rotated between the closed position and the nominal fully open position
Data Source
AI summary
A door hinge assembly comprises a first hinge member mounted to a motor vehicle and a second hinge member mounted to the removable door assembly rotatable between a closed position and a nominal fully open position. A locking member retains the second hinge member relative the first hinge member when the removable door assembly is rotated between the closed position and the nominal fully open position. A release block and a release tab is alternatively provided on either of the first or second hinge member. The release tab is resiliently urged to a locked position when the removable door assembly is rotated between the closed position and the nominal fully open position. The release tab is displaced to an unlocked position by the release block when the removable door assembly is rotated to an extended open position, whereupon the first hinge member may be separated from the second hinge member.