Flush-Mounted Vehicle Door Handle with Sensor-Actuated Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle door handles protrude from the door, interfering with styling and aerodynamics, and lack efficient keyless entry and security features.
Innovation Solution
A flush-mounted door handle system integrated with an electronic latch release, using sensors and a powered latch that shifts configurations based on user input, incorporating a keyless entry system with a touch-sensitive keypad and visual indicators for secure operation without moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional protruding door handles are used, then the door can be opened easily, but the vehicle styling and aerodynamics are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The door handle is merged with the door surface by integrating a sensor and powered latch mechanism directly into the door body. The sensor is mounted flush with the door outer surface, and the powered latch is integrated within the door structure, eliminating the need for protruding mechanical handle components while maintaining door opening functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical protruding handle system is replaced with an electronic sensor-based system. A sensor detects user input (touch or proximity), and a powered latch mechanism electronically actuates to release the door, substituting mechanical handle movement with electronic sensing and powered actuation.
2Shape
If a flush-mounted design is used, then vehicle styling and aerodynamics are improved, but the door handle becomes less visible and harder to locate
Solution Approach 1:
A visual indicator on the door surface changes appearance or illuminates to indicate the location of the hidden sensor and confirm operational status. This allows the flush-mounted design to maintain aesthetic appearance while providing visible cues to users about where to interact with the door opening system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through an indicator that communicates the sensor's location and operational state to the user. This feedback mechanism compensates for the reduced visibility of the handle itself, guiding users to the correct interaction point on the flush surface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a powered latch with sensor is used, then keyless entry functionality is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor serves multiple functions: detecting user proximity, detecting user touch input, and triggering the powered latch mechanism. The powered latch itself performs both the latching and unlatching functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite adding electronic capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor automatically detects user presence and intent without requiring manual activation, and the powered latch automatically actuates based on sensor input. The system serves itself by converting user interaction (touch or proximity) directly into latch actuation without requiring separate control mechanisms or user knowledge of system operations.
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 system provides a sleek, aerodynamic design, reduces complexity and assembly costs, and enhances vehicle security and user convenience through keyless entry functionality and hidden keypad operation.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is selected from the group consisting of proximity sensors or touch sensors
Implementation Method 2
a proximity (e.g. capacitive) or a touch sensitive pad (e.g. piezoelectric or other pressure/force detection sensor)
Implementation Method 3
The visual indicator may comprise a light, a marking or the like on the surface of the door
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic door latch includes a sensor mounted inside of an outer surface of the door. The sensor may be a proximity sensor, a touch sensor or other suitable sensor configured to determine if a user's hand is present. The door latch release system further includes a powered latch that selectively retains the door latch in a closed position. The system may include a handle formed by a flange or other structure extending across a portion of a recess or pocket in the door. The system may include a receiver that utilizes a signal from a security transmitter (e.g. keyless entry fob).