Electrically Controlled Locking Arrangement for Commercial Vehicle Load Space Door
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing commercial vehicle load space door lock mechanisms require a second housing for electrical control, which is difficult to fit and set up, and the linkage between components is prone to abuse, compromising security.
Innovation Solution
An electrically-controlled locking arrangement where a small servomotor and cam mechanism are integrated within the lock mechanism's housing to control the locking dog, allowing the hook member to be moved to its open position via an electric actuator, eliminating the need for a separate housing and enhancing security by enabling controlled access through a wireless control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a second housing is provided for electrical control gear, then the lock mechanism can be controlled electrically, but the device complexity increases and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical control gear and lock mechanism components into a single integrated housing. The actuator is positioned within the same housing as the locking dog and hook member, eliminating the need for a separate second housing. This merging of components achieves electrical control functionality while reducing structural complexity and simplifying installation.
2Extent of automation
If a second housing is provided for electrical control gear, then the lock mechanism can be controlled electrically, but the ease of manufacture decreases due to difficult fitting and setup
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all control components within the existing lock mechanism housing, the patent eliminates the complex process of fitting and assembling a separate second housing. The actuator, locking dog, and hook member are all positioned within the same housing space, significantly simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process while maintaining full electrical control functionality.
3Extent of automation
If linkage between housings is provided, then electrical control can be achieved, but security is compromised due to susceptibility to abuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the actuator and locking dog within the same housing, eliminating external linkages between separate housings. This integration ensures that all critical components are contained within a single secure housing that cannot be accessed or tampered with from outside the vehicle, thereby maintaining security while achieving electrical control.
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 solution allows for secure, controlled operation of the lock mechanism without a second housing, simplifying installation and enhancing security by enabling controlled access through a wireless control unit, while maintaining the security benefits of a slamlock mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
An electric actuator in the form of a small servomotor has been fitted within the housing
Implementation Method 2
The actuator acts on a cam which is engageable with the locking dog
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically-controlled locking arrangement for a lock mechanism of a commercial vehicle load space door includes a housing and a hook member rotatably mounted within the housing for engagement with an external catch member. A handle is coupled to the hook member to effect movement between open and closed positions. A detent is provided either on the hook member itself or on a component coupled to the hook member, a locking dog being arranged for movement between a locked setting where the dog is in engagement with the detent and a free setting where the dog is clear of the detent, to allow operation of the handle to move the hook member to its open position. An electric actuator is mounted within the housing to drive the locking dog to its free setting allowing rotation of the hook member from its closed position to its open position.