Electromechanical Switching Element for Vehicle Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuating devices for movable parts, such as vehicle fuel caps, are costly and heavy due to the use of separate sensors and actuators with complex cabling, and the push-push mechanisms are prone to errors and have a large volume.
Innovation Solution
An actuating device utilizing a sensor-actuator module with an electromechanical switching element that can switch between sensing and actuating modes, reducing mechanical components and incorporating an electronic unit for control, allowing for a cost-effective and weight-saving design with improved reliability and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sensors and actuators are used with complex cabling, then sensing and actuating functions can be achieved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate sensors and actuators into a single integrated sensor-actuator module. The electromechanical switching element integrates both sensing capability (detecting actuator position) and actuating capability (moving the movable part), eliminating the need for separate components and complex cabling between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical switching element serves multiple functions: it acts as a sensor to detect when the actuator is pressed, functions as an actuator to move the movable part, and provides mechanical coupling between the actuator and movable part. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and system complexity.
2Reliability
If push-push mechanisms with cardioid mechanisms are used, then locking and unlocking functions are achieved, but volume and mass increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex cardioid mechanism from the push-push mechanism, replacing it with a simpler direct mechanical connection through the electromechanical switching element. This removal of unnecessary mechanical complexity significantly reduces the volume of the actuating mechanism while maintaining the locking and unlocking functions.
3Reliability
If complex push-push elements are used, then locking mechanism functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensing function, actuating function, and mechanical coupling function into a single electromechanical switching element. This integration simplifies manufacturing as fewer separate components need to be produced and assembled, reducing both manufacturing cost and assembly complexity while maintaining full locking mechanism functionality.
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 results in a prolonged actuator lifetime, reduced component count, and a simplified structural design that is both cost-effective and weight-saving, while ensuring reliable operation and user access to the movable part.
Implementation Method 1
the electromechanical switching element can be brought from a first mode into a second mode by the actuator, so that in the first mode the electromechanical switching element senses an actuation by the actuator
Implementation Method 2
in the second mode the electromechanical switching element releases the actuator, and the actuator can be moved toward the movable part
Data Source
AI summary
An actuating device for a movable part, in particular a cover of a vehicle body opening, including at least one actuator and at least one electromechanical switching element. The electromechanical switching element is changeable between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the electromechanical switching element senses an actuation by the actuator and in the second mode, the electromechanical switching element releases the actuator such that the actuator can be moved toward the movable part. The electromechanical switching element has an electroactive polymer and/or a piezoelectric element.