Dual-Direction Latch Assembly for Vehicle Rattle Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies in vehicles suffer from rattling noise due to the striker being fixed in one direction, leading to instability and noise during operation.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly design featuring a latch bracket, latch, pushing bar, pressing bar, link frame, and optional return springs, which allow for increased fixing force and reduced rattling noise by fixing the striker in both directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the striker is fixed in one direction only, then the latch assembly structure is simple, but rattling noise occurs and stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-direction fixing to multi-directional fixing by introducing the pressing bar that acts perpendicular to the latch bar's action. The latch bar fixes the striker in the vertical direction while the pressing bar fixes it in the horizontal direction, adding a dimensional aspect to the constraining mechanism and eliminating rattling noise through comprehensive multi-axis stabilization.
2Ease of manufacture
If the striker is fixed in one direction only, then the latch assembly is simpler to manufacture, but stability during operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single fixing function into two separate components: the latch bar for vertical fixing and the pressing bar for horizontal fixing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, while their combined action provides enhanced stability. The link frame connects these segmented components, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving superior operational stability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a latch assembly with dual-direction fixing is implemented, then rattling noise is reduced and stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latch bar and pressing bar into a coordinated system where both components work together through the link frame mechanism. The link frame acts as a connector that integrates the vertical and horizontal fixing actions, allowing the dual-direction fixing system to function as a unified mechanism rather than separate independent components, thereby managing complexity through functional integration.
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 design effectively reduces rattling noise and enhances stability by ensuring the striker is securely fixed in both directions, improving the operation of the latch assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring, the return spring being configured such that a first end of the return spring is coupled to the supporting plate portion and a second end of the return spring is coupled to the pressing bar, and configured to apply an elastic restoring force downward to the pressing bar
Implementation Method 2
a return spring, the return spring being configured such that a first end of the return spring is coupled to the latch bracket and a second end of the return spring is coupled to the latch, and configured to apply an elastic restoring force downward to the latch
Data Source
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AI summary
Proposed is a latch assembly with reduced rattling noise. The latch assembly includes a latch bracket mounted on a seatback frame, and includes a latch (120) having a rear side portion hinge-coupled to the latch bracket, having a front side portion bent downward, and having an end portion provided with a claw portion (122). Furthermore, the latch assembly includes a cable (160) connected to an upper surface of the latch, a pushing bar (130) positioned below the rear side portion of the latch, a pressing bar (140) horizontally positioned below the claw portion, and a link frame (150) connecting the pushing bar and the pressing bar to each other, the link frame being connected to the latch bracket, and the link frame being configured such that the pressing bar is moved upward when the pushing bar is pressed downward by the latch.