Automotive Door Lock Actuator Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power release double-locking latches in vehicles face challenges in reducing the number of parts while maintaining operational efficiency, making them less economical and less sleek compared to conventional manual latches.
Innovation Solution
A door lock system with a ratchet and pawl mechanism, an electro-mechanical exterior latch release mechanism, and a controller that uses a pressure-sensitive switch to automate the locking and unlocking process, eliminating the need for an exterior lever and reducing the number of components by integrating the latch release mechanism with the door handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a conventional manual latch design is used, then the latch structure is simple and economical, but the latch cannot provide power release functionality and double-locking capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the exterior latch release mechanism with the door handle assembly by integrating the actuator, linkage, and release mechanism into a single unified structure. This merging eliminates separate exterior release components while maintaining both manual and power release capabilities, thereby reducing the overall number of parts despite adding automation functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The door handle assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the manual exterior release mechanism and the mounting structure for the power release actuator. The linkage system universally connects both manual and powered actuation methods to the same latch release point, allowing a single component to handle both operational modes without requiring separate release mechanisms
2Extent of automation
If a power release mechanism is added to the latch, then the latch provides electronic control capability, but the latch becomes more complex and less economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical exterior door handle lever with an electro-mechanical actuator system. The actuator converts electrical signals into mechanical motion to trigger the latch release, eliminating the need for a separate exterior handle mechanism while providing electronic control capability. This substitution reduces manufacturing complexity by consolidating components rather than adding to them
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the electrical system and the mechanical latch mechanism. The controller processes electrical signals and activates the appropriate actuator, serving as a mediator that enables electronic control without requiring complex direct integration between electrical components and the mechanical latch, thereby simplifying the overall manufacturing process
3Device complexity
If the latch mechanism is made more compact to reduce parts, then the latch becomes more sleek, but the operational reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the actuator, linkage, and release mechanism are housed within the existing door handle assembly boundaries. The components are arranged concentrically and in nested configurations that maximize space utilization while maintaining adequate clearance and mechanical advantage, ensuring reliable operation within a compact form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements such as spring-loaded return mechanisms and movable linkages that adapt to operational forces. The linkage system includes flexible connection points and spring-assisted components that maintain proper mechanical engagement under varying load conditions, ensuring reliable operation despite the compact arrangement of parts
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 solution provides a more economical and sleek design by automating the locking and unlocking process, reducing the number of parts, and enhancing operational efficiency while ensuring secure double-locking functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a motor assembly mounted in the housing for selectively driving the first sector gear
Implementation Method 2
a pawl biased to engage the ratchet in the latched position
Implementation Method 3
a pressure sensitive switch, electrically connected to the controller, which is mounted on, in or proximate to an outside door handle
Data Source
AI summary
A power-release door lock system for an automotive door having a latch, including a ratchet (18) and pawl (20), and an electro-mechanical exterior latch release mechanism (220) for actuating the pawl to release the ratchet. The system includes a controller (210) and a pressure sensitive switch (216) mounted to an outside door handle (214) of the automotive door and electrically connected to the controller. The controller is programmed to disable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a predetermined “lock” signal and enable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a pre-determined “unlock” signal, in which case the controller energizes the exterior latch release mechanism to release the ratchet in the event the pressure sensitive switch is actuated. The system eliminates the need for an exterior lock assembly and its attendant inside lock button or rod.