Vehicle Latch Hook Dual Support Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch devices for vehicles lack the capability to securely hold a rod-shaped striker under strong forces and are prone to catching on the housing, leading to operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A latch device with a hook-shaped portion featuring dual support surfaces and a protruding portion that engages with the rod-shaped striker, reducing the likelihood of catching and enhancing holding capacity, combined with a soft cover to reduce noise and a reinforcing plate for added rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single support surface is used in the hook-shaped portion, then the structure is simple, but the holding capability under strong forces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is segmented into two distinct surfaces: a first support surface and a second support surface. The first support surface supports the rod-shaped portion in the normal locked state, while the second support surface engages when strong forces are applied, preventing separation of the latch device from the striker. This segmentation allows the structure to handle both normal and extreme loading conditions effectively.
2Reliability
If the latch structure is made more robust to prevent catching on housing, then the holding capability is improved, but the smoothness of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the latch structure are given different qualities: the hook-shaped portion has a specific curvature and surface finish optimized for smooth engagement with the rod-shaped portion, while the protruding portion is designed with features that prevent catching on the housing. This local optimization ensures both smooth operation and reliable engagement without compromising either aspect.
3Ease of manufacture
If the latch structure is simplified, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the capability to resist strong separating forces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The solution adds a dimensional element by introducing a protruding portion that extends from the hook-shaped portion. This protruding portion engages with a corresponding feature on the rod-shaped portion, creating a mechanical interlock that resists strong separating forces. The addition of this dimensional feature does not significantly complicate the manufacturing process while dramatically improving the force resistance capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A latch device for a vehicle which locks or unlocks by engaging with or disengaging from a rod-shaped portion includes a housing and a latch 30 rotatably supported by the housing, the latch including a hook-shaped portion 33 engageable with the rod-shaped portion to form a locked state. The hook-shaped portion 33 includes a first support surface 38A opposed to the rod-shaped portion in the locked state, a protruding portion 37 located in a position closer to a distal end of the hook-shaped portion than the first support surface 38A and configured to protrude relative to the first support surface 38A, and a second support surface 38B provided on the protruding portion 37 and configured to be opposed to the rod-shaped portion. The first support surface 38A and the second support surface 38B are configured to face in different directions, and to thereby be concurrently contactable with the rod-shaped portion.