Dual-Latch Closure Panel Mechanism for Side-Access Vehicle Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current closure panel systems in vehicles are bulky, limiting cargo space, requiring additional support mechanisms, and making it difficult to access storage compartments from non-traditional angles, especially in electric vehicles where frunks are becoming more prevalent.
Innovation Solution
A latching mechanism with two latches, one on each side of the vehicle, that allows the closure panel to be opened and closed while maintaining one latch in a latched state and the other in an unlatched state, facilitated by a control system with power release actuators and wireless or wired signal connections, enabling convenient access from either side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional single-latch systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the manual effort required to open and close the panel increases and access from non-traditional angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is divided into multiple independent latch units (first latch and second latch) positioned at different locations on the closure panel. Each latch can be operated independently, allowing the panel to be accessed from different sides while distributing the mechanical load, thereby reducing the manual effort required compared to a single centralized latch system.
2Ease of operation
If additional lift support systems are added to reduce manual effort, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single complex power actuated lift support system, the invention segments the support function across multiple simpler latch units. Each latch unit provides localized support and can be independently actuated, achieving the overall support function without requiring a bulky centralized lift system, thereby maintaining ease of operation while reducing device complexity and space requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the closure panel is designed for traditional front access only, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to accommodate frunk access and side loading is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is segmented into multiple independently controllable units positioned at different sides of the vehicle. This segmentation enables selective actuation of individual latches based on the access direction (front, rear, or side), providing versatile access flexibility for both traditional trunk and modern frunk configurations without requiring a completely redesigned latch system.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-latch system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can accommodate traditional front access, rear access for frunk configurations, and side loading scenarios. The same latch units can be selectively engaged or disengaged based on the access direction, making the system universally applicable to different vehicle configurations and access patterns without requiring separate specialized systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A latching mechanism for facilitating opening and closing of a closure panel of a vehicle, comprising: a first latch mounted in a first location, the first location positioned on a first side of the vehicle, the first latch coupling the closure panel to the body of the vehicle when engaged with a corresponding first mating latch component; a second latch mounted in a second location, the second location positioned on a second side of the vehicle, the second latch coupling the closure panel to the body of the vehicle when engaged with a corresponding second mating latch component; wherein one of the first latch and the second latch is maintained in a latched state and the other of the first latch and the second latch is in an unlatched state when the closure panel is moved between an open position and a closed position.