Dual-Function Fastener for Vehicle Lock Cylinder Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock cylinder devices require multiple cumbersome fasteners for assembly, consuming space and complicating the handling process, especially when attaching a hood to a carrier from the inside of a door.

Innovation Solution

A dual-function fastener secures the hood to the carrier and holds a preassembled lock cylinder unit in place, using a threaded screw with a shank and head that engages aligned holes in both components, allowing for simplified assembly from the inside of the door.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple fasteners are used to attach the hood and lock cylinder to the carrier, then the attachment is secure, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and space-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidassembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated fastener. The fastener includes a fastening element that attaches the hood to the carrier and a retaining element that holds the lock cylinder in place, eliminating the need for separate fasteners for each component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastener is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs multiple tasks: securing the hood to the carrier, holding the lock cylinder in position, and providing a retaining function. This universal fastener replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized fasteners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple fasteners are used for assembly, then each component can be securely fixed, but the space required for placement and handling increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent fixationVSAvoidassembly space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening and retaining functions are merged into a single fastener assembly, reducing the number of discrete components that need to be placed and handled during assembly. This consolidation reduces the spatial requirements for the assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The universal fastener performs multiple functions in a single component, reducing the overall volume and space required for multiple specialized fasteners. The integrated design allows all fastening and retaining operations to be performed through one compact assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2076643B1Device for actuating a lock in the door or flap of a vehicle
Publication Date: 2010.07.28 HUF HÜLSBECK & FÜRST GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2076643B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2076643B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A construction unit (35) comprising a support (30) and a locking cylinder (20) is present in the device and is secured from the inner door side (11) behind the outer door lining (15). Those parts of the locking cylinder which project on the outer door side are covered by a cap which is secured on the inner door side (11) by securing means. In order to simplify the handling and to save space, it is proposed to use the securing means for the cap at the same time in order to also secure the construction unit (35) on the inner door side (11).