Automotive Glovebox Latch Mechanism with Rack and Pinion Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive glovebox opening and closing mechanisms often have complex structures or are ineffective, failing to provide a reliable and easy-to-manufacture solution.
Innovation Solution
A rack and pinion mechanism with a push button, latch, and locking unit, where a rack bar connected to the push button and a pinion converts linear motion into rotational motion to unlock the latch, and a locking plug with a semi-circular cross-section constrains the link's operation when locked, ensuring secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rack and pinion mechanism is used to convert linear motion to rotational motion for unlocking the latch, then the opening and closing operation becomes more reliable and easier to manufacture, but the device complexity increases compared to simpler mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a unified rack and pinion mechanism that simultaneously converts linear motion to rotational motion and controls the latch unlocking operation. This integration of motion conversion and locking control into a single mechanism improves reliability while managing complexity through functional consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack bar serves as an intermediary element that translates the linear pushing motion from the push button into rotational motion of the pinion, which then actuates the latch. This intermediary mechanism provides reliable motion transformation while keeping the overall structure manageable through clear functional separation.
2Reliability
If a locking unit with a locking plug and locking rod is added to constrain push button operation, then the security and locking reliability improve, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking plug features a semi-circular cross-section that asymmetrically engages with the locking rod. This asymmetric design provides effective constraint in the locked position while allowing straightforward key operation for unlocking, achieving high security through simple geometric form that is easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is segmented into distinct components: the locking plug with semi-circular end, the locking rod, and the key-operated mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with simple geometries and assembled into a reliable locking system, balancing security requirements with manufacturing ease.
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 apparatus allows for easy and reliable opening and closing of the glovebox while being simple to manufacture, ensuring secure locking and easy operation with a key-activated locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a rack bar connected to the push button and extending inward, a pinion engaged with the rack bar
Implementation Method 2
The rack bar may be biased outward
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for opening and closing a door of a glovebox mounted in an instrument panel. The apparatus includes a latch mounted to either the door or the instrument panel, a push button mounted to the other one of the door or the instrument panel, a rack bar connected to the push button and extending inward, a pinion engaged with the rack bar, and a link having a rack gear engaged with the pinion. The link is movable to lock and unlock the latch.