Motor Vehicle Lock Position Detection Using Single Sensing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle lock systems are structurally complex and expensive, with reliability issues due to the use of multiple sensing elements or sensors, which complicates the detection of critical lock positions such as the main closed position and sham lock scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle lock system utilizing a single sensing element and sensor to generate multiple signals based on the locking mechanism's position, allowing for the detection of pre-ratchet, main ratchet, over-travel, and intermediate positions, with the sensing element connected to the locking mechanism and the sensor fixed, enabling precise position determination without the need for multiple sensing elements or sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple influencing magnets or sensing elements are used to detect lock positions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing element from the locking mechanism body and makes it a separate, movable component that follows the catch. This allows the sensing element to be positioned optimally for detection while being actuated by the locking mechanism's motion, achieving precise position detection without requiring multiple complex sensor arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the sensing element remain stationary and detecting the catch's position directly, the patent inverts the approach by making the sensing element movable and following the catch. This inversion allows the sensor to detect the catch's position indirectly through the sensing element's movement, simplifying the overall arrangement while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Reliability
If multiple influencing magnets are used to detect main closed position, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single sensing element serves multiple functions: it detects the main closed position, identifies sham lock conditions, and determines the catch's position throughout its movement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate sensing elements or magnets, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining or improving reliability through comprehensive detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If the sensing element follows the locking mechanism, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensing element with the catch assembly, making the sensing element move together with the catch as a single integrated unit. This merging allows the sensing element to naturally follow the locking mechanism's motion, achieving precise position detection without requiring separate complex actuation mechanisms for the sensing element itself.
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
This design simplifies the structure while enhancing functional reliability, ensuring accurate detection of lock positions and preventing unintended door opening, thereby improving safety and reducing complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing element generates a magnetic field in the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle lock which is equipped with a locking mechanism consisting substantially of a catch and a pawl. Also provided is a sensor arrangement associated with the locking mechanism comprising a fixed sensor and a sensing element that influences signals of the sensor and follows the locking mechanism, or vice versa. The sensor generates at least two different signals associated with the presence and absence of the sensing element in the region of influence of the sensor. According to the invention, the single sensing element also produces at least one additional third signal of the single sensor in accordance with its position in relation to the sensor.