Frunk Latch Assembly With Bi-Directional Two-Stage Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power actuated double pull-type latches for vehicle closure panels require twice the duty cycle of single pull-type latches, leading to reduced useful life and potential noise generation due to the dual power reset actuations.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional power release mechanism for vehicle closure latches that allows a single power actuator to perform two distinct functions by reversing the polarity of the motor signal, minimizing the duty cycle and reducing the need for a return spring, thus extending the actuator's lifespan and reducing noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power actuated double pull-type latch is used, then the latch can be reliably released in two stages, but the duty cycle of the power actuator is doubled reducing its useful life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by having the power actuator drive the release lever in both directions (first direction for first stage release, second opposite direction for second stage release) rather than using a return spring to automatically reset the lever. This eliminates the need for the actuator to perform a power reset actuation back to home position, reducing the duty cycle while maintaining reliable two-stage latch release functionality
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a return spring is used to reset the release lever, then the actuator duty cycle is reduced, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the return spring from the system entirely. Instead of using a mechanical spring to reset the release lever, the system uses the power actuator driven in opposite directions to control the release lever position. This removes the noise source associated with spring operation while extending actuator lifespan through reduced duty cycle
3Reliability
If the power actuator is actuated twice in separate actuations, then the latch can transition through both latched states, but the actuator duty cycle is doubled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by having the power actuator drive the release lever in the first direction to achieve first stage release, then immediately drive it in the second opposite direction to achieve second stage release. This eliminates idle reset time between actuations and maintains continuous productive operation, reducing overall duty cycle while ensuring reliable transitions through both latched states
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 bi-directional power release mechanism reduces the duty cycle of the power actuator, prolongs its lifespan, and minimizes noise generation by enabling efficient two-stage latch operation with a single actuator direction change.
Implementation Method 1
a power actuator; A first powered actuation of the power actuator drives the release lever from a home position to a deployed position... A second powered actuation of the power actuator drives the release lever from the deployed position to the home position
Data Source
AI summary
A closure latch assembly for a vehicle closure panel having a dual stage power release mechanism with a release lever configured for movement in a first direction and an opposite second direction. A first actuation of an actuator causes a first stage actuation, whereat the release lever is moved in the first direction to move closure latch assembly from a fully latched state to a partially latched state. A second actuation of the actuator causes a second stage actuation, whereat the release lever is moved in the second direction to move closure latch assembly from the partially latched state to an open state.