Auxiliary Lock Drive Coupling Element for Bowden Cable Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing auxiliary closing drive for motor vehicle locks is complex to install and transport due to the need to avoid mechanical torsional stresses in Bowden cables, making assembly difficult and impairing the drive's function.
Innovation Solution
The coupling element is designed to be accessible for Bowden cable assembly during manufacturing, allowing for a non-detachable coupling through motorized adjustment, which simplifies installation and avoids torsional stresses by allowing rotary movement between the coupling element and the Bowden cable core.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the Bowden cable is firmly connected to the coupling element during commissioning, then the auxiliary closing drive can be installed together with the Bowden cable, but mechanical torsional stresses occur in the Bowden cable making assembly difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is made adjustable between a coupling position (where the Bowden cable can be connected) and an operating position (where it is inaccessible). This dynamic repositioning allows the system to adapt during assembly to avoid torsional stresses, while maintaining secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling process is separated into distinct phases: assembly phase where the coupling element is accessible for Bowden cable connection, and operation phase where it is inaccessible. This segmentation allows optimal handling during assembly while ensuring security during use.
2Ease of operation
If the coupling element is always accessible from the outside, then Bowden cable assembly is simplified, but the coupling can be inadvertently released during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element transitions from an accessible state during assembly to an inaccessible state during operation. This dynamic change ensures that the Bowden cable can be easily assembled when needed, but cannot be accidentally released during normal vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is pre-positioned in an accessible state during the assembly process, allowing easy connection of the Bowden cable. After assembly is complete, the element is moved to its operating position where it becomes inaccessible, preventing inadvertent release.
3Reliability
If the coupling element is made inaccessible during operation, then secure coupling is ensured, but assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element's accessibility is dynamically controlled - accessible during assembly, inaccessible during operation. This single dynamic feature provides both ease of assembly and secure operation without requiring multiple complex components or procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an auxiliary locking drive for a motor vehicle lock with a drive housing, wherein the auxiliary locking drive can be coupled to the motor vehicle lock via a Bowden cable with Bowden cable core and Bowden cable sheath, wherein a drive motor with a downstream feed gear for generating drive movements and a coupling element for transmitting the drive movements are provided. It is proposed that the coupling element, in particular by means of the drive motor, can be brought into at least one coupling position in which it is accessible from the outside for the purpose of coupling the Bowden cable to the coupling element, and is otherwise inaccessible from the outside for the purpose of coupling the Bowden cable to the coupling element.