Motor Vehicle Lock Servo Drive Housing Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle door latches with electric motor drives and sensors face issues with secure sensor positioning and protection, especially during the return movement of the catch, leading to potential hard stops and insecure sensor arrangement.
Innovation Solution
The sensor is integrated into the drive housing with the Bowden cable thrust bearing, and a lid is clipped in to secure the sensor, forming a compact and stable unit that absorbs forces and protects the sensor, ensuring precise and secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensor is arranged alongside the drive housing and protected via an adhered flap, then the sensor can detect the catch position, but the flap can open under force and the sensor securing is not guaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is integrated directly into the drive housing, merging the sensor mounting function with the drive housing structure. This eliminates the need for separate protection flaps and mounting mechanisms, providing reliable sensor securing while simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive housing serves multiple functions: it houses the drive mechanism, provides structural support, and integrates the sensor mounting. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated sensor protection components.
2Reliability
If the drive housing is made compact and stable to absorb forces, then the sensor accommodation is improved, but the installation and access for sensor replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The drive housing is divided into a fixed portion and a removable lid portion. The lid can be detached to provide access to the sensor for installation or replacement, while the main housing remains compact and stable for force absorption during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid transitions from a closed state during operation (providing stability) to an open state during maintenance (providing access). This dynamic configuration allows the same structure to serve opposing requirements at different times.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a motor-vehicle lock, in particular a motor-vehicle door lock. In order to provide a reliable assembly and a reliable operation for said lock, the drive housing 6 of the servo closing function 2 is designed to function simultaneously as a Bowden cable bearing 8 and as a receiving chamber or shaft 14 for the micro-switch 15. The drive housing 6 has a robust, compact design and allows the micro-switch 15 to be sited securely in the drive housing 6 always in the same place. This also remains the case as the securing cover 10 is fixed in the drive housing 6 by means of a clip 11.