Self-aligning Latching Actuator Plunger and Slot Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current latching actuators and receptacles in motor vehicles are sensitive to positional variations, manufacturing tolerances, and wear, leading to functional impairments and require tuning, which affects their reliability and longevity.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning latching assembly with a plunger and hinge design, where the plunger has arms with semi-spherical and angled surfaces, and a slot with a clearance, allowing for rotational movement and minimizing friction and wear by utilizing point contacts and accommodating manufacturing variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional latching actuator and receptacle design is used, then the latching function is achieved, but the system is sensitive to positional variations and manufacturing tolerances, requiring tuning and reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the plunger and slot interface. The plunger has a rectangular cross-section that fits within a rectangular slot with intentional clearance, allowing positional variations and manufacturing tolerances without requiring precise alignment or tuning.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching interface is designed to be self-aligning and self-adjusting. The plunger automatically finds its correct position within the slot through the clearance design, eliminating the need for external tuning or adjustment mechanisms during assembly or operation.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a traditional latching interface is used, then the latching function is achieved, but wear and friction increase due to lack of self-alignment capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end of the plunger is rounded rather than sharp-edged, and the slot has rounded corners. This curvature distribution allows for smoother engagement and reduced stress concentration, minimizing wear and friction during repeated latching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces clearance between the plunger and slot walls, changing the dimensional parameters from tight-fit to loose-fit. This clearance allows the plunger to self-align during engagement, reducing friction and wear on the latching interface components.
Data Source
AI summary
A latching assembly includes a hinge defining a slot, the slot having a slot length and a slot width, wherein the slot length is greater than the slot width, and a latching actuator having a housing and a plunger partially disposed in the housing, the plunger configured to translate and rotate relative to the housing, the plunger having a distal end with a plunger end length and a plunger end width, wherein the plunger end length is greater than the plunger end width, the plunger configured to be inserted into the slot. The plunger end length is greater than the slot width and the plunger end length is less than the slot length by a clearance amount.