Flush Door Handle Actuator With Position-Based Motor Shutoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door handles for vehicles protrude outward when not in use, which can be aesthetically unpleasing and may lead to mechanical issues due to exposure to the elements, and current actuator systems are costly and prone to stalling.
Innovation Solution
A flush door handle assembly with an integrated actuator that moves between a recessed and deployed position using a position-based shut-off circuit, eliminating the need for external limit switches and reducing mechanical wear by preventing motor stalling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the door handle protrudes outward when not in use, then it is easily graspable by users, but it becomes aesthetically unpleasing and vulnerable to mechanical issues from exposure to elements
Solution Approach 1:
The door handle transitions between two states: protruding outward when not in use for easy grasping, and retracting flush with the door surface when closed to protect from elements. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and protection from harmful environmental factors.
2Reliability
If traditional actuator systems with external limit switches are used, then position control is achieved, but the system becomes costly and prone to stalling
Solution Approach 1:
The limit switch functionality is integrated directly into the actuator assembly, eliminating external limit switches and reducing system complexity. This merging of functions maintains reliable position control while reducing component count and potential failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated position-based shut-off circuit provides feedback to the actuator motor, allowing it to automatically stop at predetermined positions without external limit switches. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable position control while simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Ease of operation
If the handle portion remains protruding, then it is always accessible, but mechanical wear increases and operational costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The handle dynamically retracts to a flush position when not in use, minimizing exposure to environmental elements and reducing mechanical wear on moving parts. When needed, it protrudes for accessibility. This dynamic behavior extends the service life of the handle mechanism while maintaining operational accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular exterior door handle assembly includes a base portion disposed at a door handle region of a vehicle door. A handle portion is movable relative to the base portion between a recessed position and a deployed position. An actuator includes a motor that is electrically operable to move the handle portion between the recessed position and the deployed position. The actuator includes a position indicating element that indicates at least one position of an output shaft of the motor. Responsive to an input signal, the actuator moves the handle portion between the recessed position and the deployed position. While the actuator moves the handle portion, the position indicating element indicates that the output shaft arrives at one of the at least one positions and the actuator depowers the motor.