Selective Coupling Mechanism for Vehicle Door Lock Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle door locking systems are complex due to the need for multiple parts and actuators to achieve various locking functionalities, such as child safety and double locking, which increases the number of components and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A control device with two locking control elements and a selective coupling member that allows both elements to be driven by a single motorization, using a single kinematic chain and return means like a torsion spring to achieve multiple locking configurations with reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking functionalities (child safety, double locking) are implemented with separate actuators for each function, then the desired locking configurations are achieved, but the number of parts and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functionalities (child safety, double locking) into a single actuator that controls two control elements through a selective coupling mechanism. The coupling member can connect to different control elements based on the desired locking configuration, allowing one actuator to perform functions that traditionally required multiple separate actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed with a selective coupling member that can universally connect to different control elements (first control element, second control element) depending on the required locking function. This multi-functional design allows the same actuator to implement child safety, double locking, and other locking configurations without requiring separate dedicated actuators for each function.
2Device complexity
If a single motor is used to operate multiple locking functions, then the number of parts is reduced, but the mechanism complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The selective coupling member acts as an intermediary between the single actuator and the control elements. It mediates the connection by selectively engaging with either the first or second control element based on the desired locking configuration. This intermediary mechanism simplifies control compared to managing multiple independent actuators, as the coupling member automatically routes the actuator's motion to the appropriate control element.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators are used for different locking functions, then each function can be independently controlled, but the cost and size of the system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple locking functions into a single actuator system with a selective coupling member that can engage different control elements. This consolidation reduces the overall system size and weight compared to using separate actuators for each locking function, while maintaining the ability to independently control different locking configurations through the coupling mechanism.
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
This solution simplifies the locking system by reducing the number of parts and motorization needed, allowing for efficient operation of multiple locking functions with fewer components, thereby enhancing reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
return means of the coupling member to comprise a torsion spring configured to exert a return force towards the second coupling position when the first control element is in the second control position
Data Source
Figure 1~1bis
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for controlling the locking of a vehicle door, comprising: first and second locking control elements (6) which can move between first and second control positions, and means for driving the control elements (6) between the first and second control positions thereof. The second control element (7) comprises a coupling member (10) that can also move between: a first coupling position, in which the coupling member kinematically interconnects the second control element (7) and a bearing member (5) of the driving means; and a second coupling position, in which the coupling member kinematically interconnects the second and first control elements and in which said coupling member authorises the first element (6) to be driven by the bearing member (5). The invention also comprises return means for returning the coupling member (10). The invention is suitable for motor vehicles.