Integrated Latch Controller for Vehicle Door Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door modules in vehicles are complex and heavy due to the inclusion of multiple mechanical and electrical components, including latch assemblies and window regulators, which require separate controllers and wiring, increasing weight and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with an integrated electronic control circuit and latch controller that monitors and controls both the actuation group for latching/unlatching and a remote electric motor, eliminating the need for additional controllers and simplifying the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate controllers are used for latch assembly and window regulator, then operational control is achieved, but weight and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latch controller and window regulator controller into a single integrated control unit. The controller includes a microprocessor that executes unified control logic for both the latch actuation group and the window regulator motor, eliminating the need for separate controllers and reducing system complexity while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated controller serves multiple functions: it controls the latch actuation group for door locking/unlocking, monitors window regulator motor parameters (current, voltage, temperature), and regulates window glass movement. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple specialized controllers with one universal control unit
2Reliability
If multiple separate controllers and wiring harnesses are used, then component control is achieved, but weight of door module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple controllers into one integrated control unit, directly reducing the weight of electronic components. The unified controller eliminates redundant housing, power supply circuits, and communication interfaces that would exist in separate controller configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The single controller performs multiple control functions that previously required separate dedicated controllers, including latch control, window regulator monitoring, and motor protection. This consolidation significantly reduces the overall weight of the door module while maintaining full component control capability
3Measurement precision
If remote motor assembly is controlled separately, then motor monitoring is achieved, but electrical connections and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the window regulator controller functions within the latch controller assembly. The unified controller monitors motor current, voltage, and temperature parameters through integrated sensing circuits, eliminating the need for separate monitoring systems and reducing electrical connection complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated controller serves as an intermediary that consolidates multiple control and monitoring functions. It mediates between the power source, latch actuation group, and window regulator motor, providing centralized control and monitoring while reducing the number of electrical connections required
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly for a closure panel of a motor vehicle and corresponding method of operation are provided. The latch assembly includes a latch housing for attachment to the closure panel and contains an actuation group to latch and unlatch the closure panel. An electronic control circuit that has a latch controller is disposed within the latch housing and is coupled to the at least one actuation group. The electronic control circuit includes a motor voltage and current sensing circuit for sensing a motor current and a motor voltage of a remote electric motor disposed remotely from the latch housing. The latch controller monitors and controls the actuation group and determine at least one of a motor rotational position and a motor speed of the remote electric motor based on at least one of the motor current signal and the motor voltage signal and controls the remote electric motor accordingly.