Flush Vehicle Door Handle Assembly for Aerodynamic Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle door handles protrude outward when not in use, compromising vehicle aesthetics and aerodynamics, and require manual extension, which can be inconvenient in certain situations.
Innovation Solution
A flush door handle assembly with a retractable design that uses an electromechanical actuator to extend the handle outward upon receiving a signal, allowing for easy grasping and manual operation when needed, and automatically returning to a flush position when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the door handle protrudes outward when not in use, then it is easily accessible and functional for manual operation, but it compromises vehicle aesthetics and aerodynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The door handle is designed to change its position dynamically between a retracted state (flush with door surface) and an extended state (protruding for grasping). This dynamic transformation allows the handle to optimize aerodynamics when not in use while providing easy accessibility when needed, resolving the contradiction between shape and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle portion is nested within or flush with the door panel when not in use, similar to how a doll is placed inside another. This nesting approach allows the handle to maintain a streamlined aerodynamic profile while still being functional, as it can extend outward when required for door operation.
2Shape
If the door handle is retracted flush with the door surface, then aerodynamics and aesthetics are improved, but manual extension becomes inconvenient in certain situations
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical extension action is replaced with an automated electromechanical actuator system. The actuator automatically extends the handle when triggered by a key fob or passive entry system, eliminating the need for manual manipulation and resolving the contradiction between aerodynamic profile and ease of deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is automatically extended in advance before the user needs to open the door, triggered by proximity detection or key fob signal. This preliminary action ensures the handle is already in the grasping position when the user approaches, eliminating any inconvenience associated with manual extension.
3Ease of operation
If an electromechanical actuator is added to automate handle extension, then user convenience is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical actuator serves multiple functions: it extends the handle for automated operation, and can also be integrated with the door latch mechanism to provide electronic door unlocking. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing enhanced convenience and integrating multiple features into a single system.
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
Provides a visually appealing, aerodynamic door handle that is easily accessible and functional, enhancing user convenience and vehicle design aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator with a motor that is electrically operable in response to a trigger or input signal. In response to the input signal, the motor operates and the actuator engages the crank to impart pivotal movement of the crank
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular exterior door handle assembly includes a base portion and a handle portion having a base end and a swing end opposite the base end. The handle portion is movable relative to the base portion between a retracted position and a deployed position. An actuator includes a motor that is electrically operable in a deploying direction to move the handle portion toward the deployed position and is electrically operable in a retracting direction opposite the deploying direction. The motor operates in the deploying direction and imparts pivotal movement of a connecting link to move the handle portion toward the deployed position. With the handle portion at the deployed position, electrical operation of the motor of the actuator in the retracting direction imparts retracting movement of a reset element that engages a bellcrank and/or the connecting link to retract the handle portion toward the retracted position.