Frunk Latch and Air Vent Release for High-Speed Air Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle latch systems for front and rear trunks (frunks) are complex and costly, and they prevent access to air from outside the trunk when the vehicle is traveling above a certain speed, posing a risk to trapped individuals.
Innovation Solution
A latch system with a ratchet and pawl mechanism that allows a person inside the trunk to access air from outside by actuating an air vent valve, while preventing unlatching during high-speed travel, and is designed to be economical in manufacture and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a double position latch system is used to allow air access while trapped in the trunk, then air access is enabled, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is divided into two independent functional components: a standard single-position latch mechanism for hood securing/release, and a separate air vent valve system for air access. This segmentation allows the air vent function to be added without complicating the core latch mechanism, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining air access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An air vent valve is introduced as an intermediary component between the trunk compartment and the external environment. This valve provides a controlled air passage that does not require modifying the latch mechanism itself, thereby enabling air access while keeping the latch system simple and cost-effective.
2Reliability
If a double position latch system is used to allow air access while trapped in the trunk, then air access is enabled, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the air vent function from the latch mechanism, each component can be manufactured independently using standard processes. The air vent valve can be produced as a separate assembly, avoiding the need for complex integrated latch designs, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The air vent valve is designed as a simple, cost-effective component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. This approach uses a relatively simple valve mechanism rather than a complex latch modification, reducing overall manufacturing cost while achieving the air access function.
3Reliability
If the latch is prevented from unlatching during high-speed travel, then safety is improved, but air access is blocked when trapped
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the latch control function from the air vent control function. The latch remains restricted during high-speed travel for safety, while the air vent valve can be independently actuated by an interior switch to provide air access. This segmentation allows both safety and air access requirements to be satisfied simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
An interior actuation switch serves as an intermediary control device that enables the air vent valve to be opened from inside the trunk without affecting the latch mechanism. This allows trapped individuals to access air even when the vehicle is traveling at high speeds, while the latch remains secure for safety.
4Device complexity
If a standard single position latch is used, then the device is simple and economical, but air access is not provided when trapped
Solution Approach 1:
An air vent valve with an interior actuation switch is introduced as an intermediary system that provides air access without modifying the simple single-position latch mechanism. This addition maintains the simplicity and economy of the original latch while enabling the critical air access function for trapped individuals.
Solution Approach 2:
The air vent valve system serves multiple functions: it provides air access when trapped, can be actuated from inside the trunk, and operates independently of the latch system. This multi-functionality is achieved through a relatively simple valve mechanism controlled by an interior switch, maintaining overall system simplicity while adding essential capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A latch system for a hood of a compartment of a motor vehicle includes a latch and a ventilation system including an air vent valve moveable between closed and open positions within an air passage extending between the compartment and an external environment. An actuation member of the latch system is configured to be disposed in the compartment for communication with the air vent valve and the latch, for actuation by a person. Actuation of the actuation member when the motor vehicle is traveling in excess of a predetermined speed causes the air vent valve to move to the open position to allow air from the external environment to flow into the compartment, with the latch remaining in the latched position. Actuation of the actuation member when the motor vehicle is traveling below the predetermined speed moves the latch from the latched position to the unlatched position.