Dual-Motion Door Hinge Structure for Independent Pillarless Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In pillarless vehicle doors, the fixed order of operation for front and rear doors restricts independent operation, and existing hinge structures cannot facilitate individual operation of doors without reinforcing the door and vehicle body.
Innovation Solution
A door connection structure that enables dual motion operation of sliding and swing motions without electrical configuration, utilizing a door guide, door hinge arm, first and second catchers, and their respective springs to allow independent operation of doors regardless of pillar presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a general hinge structure is applied to pillarless doors, then the door can be opened and closed, but individual operation of front and rear doors becomes impossible and the door and vehicle body require reinforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system is divided into separate front and rear hinge assemblies, each capable of independent operation. The front door hinge and rear door hinge are structurally independent, allowing the front door to operate without the rear door and vice versa, eliminating the need for reinforcement structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure incorporates dynamic elements including springs and catchers that allow flexible operation modes. The spring-loaded catchers enable the door to transition between locked and unlocked states dynamically, facilitating individual operation without requiring additional reinforcement.
2Ease of operation
If electrical operation configuration is used to enable dual motion door operation, then independent door operation is achieved, but system complexity and dependency on electrical power increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system uses self-contained mechanical components including springs and catchers that automatically perform the functions of locking, unlocking, and guiding door motion. The spring-loaded catchers automatically engage and disengage based on door position, eliminating the need for electrical actuators or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electrical actuation systems with a purely mechanical solution. The dual motion (sliding and swinging) is achieved through mechanical guide rails, hinge arms, and spring-loaded catchers rather than electric motors or electronic control mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pillarless door design is implemented, then vehicle aesthetics and space are improved, but the fixed order of operation for front and rear doors restricts functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system is designed to accommodate multiple operation modes (sliding and swinging) within a single structural framework. The universal hinge assembly can handle both motion types without requiring additional pillars or structural modifications, maintaining the pillarless aesthetic while enabling flexible door operation sequences.
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
Enables independent operation of front and rear doors by dual motion without electrical operation, applicable to pillarless vehicle bodies, ensuring functionality even without battery power.
Implementation Method 1
a first catcher spring for elasticity supporting the first catcher in a direction opposite to a swing direction of the door when the door is opened
Implementation Method 2
a second catcher spring that elastically supports the second catcher in the swing direction when the door is opened
Data Source
AI summary
A door connection structure includes a door guide for guiding a door in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle body, a door hinge arm mounted on the vehicle body, and including a hinge rotation shaft and a door rotation shaft, the door hinge arm rotating around the hinge rotation shaft when the door is sliding, a door hinge rotatably mounted around the door rotation shaft and connected to the door, a first catcher rotatably mounted on the door hinge arm and of which a center striker guide is formed thereto, and a center striker which is inserted into the center striker guide to rotate the first catcher and limits rotation of the first catcher when the door swings so that the door swings around the door rotation shaft.