Dual Pull Latch Assembly Preventing Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle latches are prone to unintended or accidental release, which can reduce visibility or cause damage during vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
A double cable pull assembly and double pull latch assembly that require multiple actions to release, utilizing a pull rod, selector lever, linkage, and release mechanism to ensure secure engagement and release of vehicle panels, preventing accidental release by requiring a user to perform at least two actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single cable pull mechanism is used to release the latch, then the operation is simple and quick, but the latch may be accidentally released during vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is segmented into multiple independent components: a pull rod, a selector lever with multiple positions, and a linkage system. Each component performs a specific function in the multi-step release sequence, allowing the system to require multiple actions for release while maintaining clear operational separation between steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector lever is designed with pre-defined positions (first position, second position, and intermediate position) that must be sequentially engaged. The linkage is pre-configured with features that guide the selector lever through a specific sequence of movements, ensuring that the release only occurs after deliberate completion of all required actions.
2Reliability
If a multi-action release mechanism is implemented to prevent accidental release, then latch security is improved, but the operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The selector lever is designed to be dynamically positionable, allowing the user to move it between different positions (first, second, and intermediate) during the release sequence. This dynamic positioning enables the system to adapt the release process to user actions while maintaining the required multi-step sequence for security.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage acts as an intermediary mechanism between the selector lever and the release latch. It translates the selector lever's positional changes into controlled movements of the release arm, mediating the transition between different release states and ensuring that only the complete sequence of actions results in latch release.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the selector lever can be positioned in multiple locations, then the release control is enhanced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The selector lever and linkage are designed with specific local features at defined positions rather than requiring complex continuous mechanisms. The linkage includes discrete features (such as a first feature and second feature) that engage with the selector lever at specific locations, allowing for standardized manufacturing of individual components with localized functional characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A double pull latch assembly and method of unlatching a panel. The double pull latch assembly includes a pull rod, a selector lever, and a linkage, wherein the selector lever is selectively disposed in a first feature or second feature of the linkage. In another embodiment, the double pull latch assembly includes a release arm, a lever, and a hold open lever to hold the lever in the intermediate position.