Motor Vehicle Lock Assisted Closing Torque Converter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assisted closing devices for motor vehicle door latches often reach limitations in providing sufficient force for greater assisted closing paths while ensuring safety and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle lock with a locking mechanism comprising a rotary latch, at least one pawl, an assisted closing device with an electric drive and a torque converter, where the assisted closing is achieved through a combination of frictional connection and form fit, allowing for adjustable torque and enhanced safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If assisted closing is achieved through frictional connection only, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to insufficient force for greater closing paths
Solution Approach 1:
The assisted closing process is segmented into two distinct phases: a first assisted closing movement using frictional connection for ease of operation, and a second assisted closing movement using form fit for reliability. This segmentation allows each phase to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection type dynamically transitions from frictional connection to form fit during the closing process. The system automatically switches between connection modes based on the closing phase, enabling the mechanism to adapt its characteristics to meet different operational requirements at different stages.
2Productivity
If assisted closing force is increased for greater closing paths, then productivity is improved, but object-affected harmful factors worsen due to operator trapping risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides beforehand cushioning by using frictional connection in the first closing phase, which inherently limits the maximum force that can be transmitted. This frictional interface acts as a safety mechanism that prevents excessive forces from developing, cushioning against the potential harmful effect of operator trapping while still enabling assisted closing over greater distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection parameters change between the two phases: frictional connection with limited force transmission in the first phase, and form fit with high force transmission in the second phase. This parameter change allows the system to achieve greater closing paths while controlling the force levels to prevent operator trapping.
3Reliability
If form fit is used throughout the entire closing process, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to excessive force requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The closing process is segmented into two phases with different connection types: frictional connection for the first phase to reduce required force and improve ease of operation, and form fit for the second phase to ensure reliable secure closure. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by applying each connection type where it is most beneficial.
Solution Approach 2:
Different connection qualities are applied locally to different phases of the closing process. The frictional connection provides low-force, easy-to-engage characteristics in the first phase, while the form fit provides high-force, secure characteristics in the second phase. Each local phase receives the quality it needs for optimal performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables safe and efficient assisted closing across greater distances without risking operator safety, as the frictional connection can be overridden to prevent trapping, and the form fit ensures secure closure.
Implementation Method 1
a variable torque is adjustable in the assisted closing device by means of the torque converter wherein the assisted closing is achieved at least in some regions by means of a frictional connection
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for a motor vehicle, comprising a locking mechanism composed of a rotary latch and at least one pawl, an assisted closing device, an electric drive, and a torque converter, wherein a variable torque is adjustable in the assisted closing device by means of the torque converter, and wherein the assisted closing is achieved at least in some regions by means of a frictional connection.