Motor Vehicle Latch Lever Arrangement Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing motor vehicle latch operating arrangements, particularly in pick-up trucks, are complex and prone to malfunctions due to the interaction of multiple levers and drive trains, leading to difficulties in achieving a simple and reliable assembly.
Innovation Solution
A structurally simplified operating arrangement where the drive train works on a locking lever to block the operating lever when in the 'locked' position, ensuring that the handle cannot open the motor vehicle latches, using a ratchet connection and blockade contours for secure interlocking, and a base plate for mounting the levers and drive train.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex lever arrangement with multiple drive trains is used to operate motor vehicle latches, then the latches can be reliably locked and unlocked, but the device complexity increases and malfunctions become more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lever functions into a single integrated lever arrangement. The operating lever directly acts upon the latch lever without requiring separate drive trains for each latch, merging the locking and unlocking functions into one coordinated mechanism that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever arrangement serves multiple functions: it operates both latches simultaneously, provides both locking and unlocking actions, and coordinates the operation of multiple transmission means through a unified mechanism, eliminating the need for separate specialized components for each function
2Reliability
If multiple levers and drive trains are used in the operating arrangement, then the latches can be securely controlled, but the manufacturing and assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components into a unified lever arrangement that operates both latches through a single coordinated mechanism. This integration reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, while the direct connection between the operating lever and latch levers ensures secure control with fewer potential failure points
3Device complexity
If a simplified lever arrangement with direct connection is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of latch operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a latch lever as an intermediary component between the operating lever and the latch mechanism. This intermediary ensures reliable force transmission and proper mechanical engagement, maintaining operational reliability while keeping the overall arrangement simple by using a direct connection without complex drive trains
Solution Approach 2:
The blockade contours with curved surfaces ensure reliable mechanical interlocking between the operating lever and latch lever. The curved geometry provides smooth engagement and disengagement while maintaining secure locking, ensuring reliable operation with the simplified direct-connection architecture
Data Source
AI summary
An operating arrangement for at least one motor vehicle latch, in particular a flap operating arrangement for two motor vehicle flap latches placed at a distance from one another and provided with a drive train. Furthermore, a lever arrangement interacting with the drive train is provided. Moreover, there is provided at least one transmission attached to the lever arrangement to act upon the at least one motor vehicle latch. The lever arrangement has an operating lever to act upon the transmission and a locking lever that blocks the operating lever at least when in a “locked” position, wherein the drive train works upon the locking lever.