Vehicle Door Lock Relocation to Mirror Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door assemblies in vehicles often require the lock mechanism to be integrated into the outer panel, which can compromise aesthetics, increase the panel's mass and size, and limit packaging options for windows, while also risking accidental unlocking due to external forces.
Innovation Solution
The lock apparatus is positioned closer to the mirror apparatus than the outer handle, allowing it to be integrated into the mirror's structure, thus removing it from the outer panel and enhancing aesthetics, reducing panel thickness, and providing additional packaging space for windows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lock mechanism is integrated into the outer panel, then the door can be locked securely, but the aesthetics are compromised and the panel's mass and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is extracted from the outer panel and relocated to the mirror assembly. This separation removes the bulky lock components from the visible door surface, improving aesthetics while maintaining secure locking functionality through the mirror's integrated lock mechanism.
2Reliability
If the lock mechanism is integrated into the outer panel, then the door can be locked securely, but the panel's mass and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is extracted from the outer panel and relocated to the mirror assembly. This separation removes the bulky lock components from the visible door surface, improving aesthetics while maintaining secure locking functionality through the mirror's integrated lock mechanism.
3Reliability
If the lock mechanism is integrated into the outer panel, then the door can be locked securely, but packaging options for windows are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is extracted from the outer panel and relocated to the mirror assembly. This separation removes the bulky lock components from the visible door surface, improving aesthetics while maintaining secure locking functionality through the mirror's integrated lock mechanism.
4Ease of operation
If the lock mechanism is positioned on the outer panel, then key-based locking can be implemented, but accidental unlocking due to external forces is risked
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror assembly serves as an intermediary structure that houses the lock mechanism away from the outer panel. This intermediate positioning protects the lock from direct external forces while maintaining key-based operation capability, reducing the risk of accidental unlocking.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle and a door assembly each include an inner panel and an outer panel coupled to each other to define a door. A first handle is attached to the outer panel. A mirror apparatus is supported by the door and spaced apart from the first handle. A lock apparatus is supported by at least one of the door and the mirror apparatus. The lock apparatus is disposed closer to the mirror apparatus than the first handle.