Door Latch Dual-Switch Detection for Single-Motor Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing door latch device for vehicles has issues with the lock mechanism remaining in a locked state for long periods, leading to potential rust and malfunction, and requires multiple motor rotations to switch between locked and unlocked states, with unreliable operation detection due to single-point position switches.
Innovation Solution
A door latch device with dual position switches that detect the operation of the lock mechanism's state securely by reading the position twice, allowing for single motor operation to switch between locked and unlocked states without generating unnecessary noise, and ensuring continuous operation even if one switch fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lock mechanism is maintained in the locked state for long periods, then security is improved, but the mechanism components rust and malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by causing the lock mechanism to automatically switch between locked and unlocked states at predetermined intervals through the cam wheel's rotation. This periodic movement prevents components from remaining stationary in the locked state for extended periods, thereby preventing rust and malfunction while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If multiple motor rotations are used to switch between locked and unlocked states, then reliable state switching is achieved, but operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam wheel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it switches the lock mechanism between locked and unlocked states, releases the latch mechanism, and enables single-motor operation. By integrating these functions into a single component, the patent achieves reliable state switching without requiring multiple separate motor rotations, thereby reducing operation time and complexity.
3Device complexity
If a single position switch is used to detect lock mechanism operation, then device complexity is reduced, but detection reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the position detection function into multiple independent position switches (first and second position switches) that detect different aspects of the cam wheel's rotation. This segmentation ensures that if one switch fails, the other can still provide detection, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
4Extent of automation
If the lock mechanism is switched exclusively by electric release mechanism, then automation is improved, but vulnerability to electrical system failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing a manual release mechanism as a pre-prepared backup system. In the event of electrical system failure or motor malfunction, the manual release mechanism can be activated to switch the lock mechanism between locked and unlocked states, ensuring continuous functionality and reliability.
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
The dual position switch configuration enhances the reliability of lock mechanism operation detection and allows for smooth switching between locked and unlocked states using a single motor, preventing rust and ensuring continuous functionality without noise or operational disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
The cam wheel is held at a reference position by energizing force of a neutral return spring
Data Source
AI summary
A door latch device includes: a first position switch and a second position switch, each including a first contact hole, a second contact hole, and a common contact hole; a common pin configured to be electrically conducted to the common contact hole of the first position switch and the first contact hole of the second position switch by being inserted therein; a first signal pin configured to be electrically conducted to the first contact hole of the first position switch by being inserted therein; and a second signal pin configured to be electrically conducted to the common contact of the second position switch by being inserted therein, wherein the first position switch and the second position switch are configured to perform a switch operation at a same timing of an operation of a predetermined operation detection target.