Keyless Vehicle Door Latch Powered Backup Unlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motor vehicle door lock systems are complex and costly due to the need for exterior lock cylinders and mechanical key-based unlocking mechanisms, which can fail if the remote fob malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A keyless door latch system with a powered lock that uses first and second electrical power supplies and a wireless remote fob with dual user inputs to unlock the door, eliminating the need for a lock cylinder and key, by providing a backup power source and communication system to ensure access even if the primary power supply fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical lock cylinder and key system is used, then the door can be unlocked even if the remote fob malfunctions, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical lock cylinder and key system with an electrically-powered lock mechanism. The lock is actuated by a motor or actuator that responds to signals from a remote fob or keyless entry system, eliminating the need for mechanical keys and cylinders while maintaining the ability to unlock the door through electronic means.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote fob or keyless entry system is designed to provide multiple functions: it can lock and unlock the door, activate the alarm system, and potentially other vehicle control functions. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanical and electronic systems into a unified electronic control system.
2Reliability
If a mechanical lock cylinder and key system is used, then the door can be unlocked even if the remote fob malfunctions, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical lock cylinder and key system with an electrically-powered lock mechanism. The lock is actuated by a motor or actuator that responds to signals from a remote fob or keyless entry system, eliminating the need for mechanical keys and cylinders while maintaining the ability to unlock the door through electronic means.
3Reliability
If a backup power supply is added to the door lock system, then the door can be unlocked even if the primary power supply fails, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a backup power supply mechanism that is预先 prepared to take over if the primary power supply fails. This could include a secondary battery, capacitor bank, or alternative power source that automatically activates when the primary power is depleted or malfunctioning, ensuring the lock mechanism remains operational.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors the power supply status and automatically switches between power sources based on the available power parameters. When the primary power supply voltage or current falls below threshold levels, the system transitions to using the backup power source, maintaining the electrical parameters required for the lock mechanism to function.
Data Source
AI summary
A keyless door latch system for doors of motor vehicles includes a backup electrical power supply to unlock the door latch in the event the primary power supply fails, thereby eliminating the need for a lock cylinder. The latch system includes a user input device having first and second user input features. The door latch system is configured to supply electrical power from the primary electrical power supply to unlock the latch upon actuation of the first user input feature, and to supply electrical power from the backup electrical power supply to unlock the latch upon actuation of the second user input feature. The user input device may comprise a wireless portable device that generates first and second wireless signals upon actuation of the first and second user input features, respectively.