Locking Unit with Integrated Disk for Direct Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking units for motor vehicle flaps are complex, prone to failure, and require high mechanical loads due to indirect operative connections and multi-part constructions, leading to increased wear and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A simplified locking unit utilizing a locking disk with an elongated hole to securely hold the driver, ensuring a direct and reliable operative connection between the actuating device and locking element, allowing for a compact and robust configuration with fewer parts and reduced mechanical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-part actuating device with double mechanism is used to actuate the locking element, then the locking unit can achieve complex locking functions, but the device complexity increases and the construction becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is divided into functionally independent components: a locking disk for actuating the locking element, a driver for direct force transmission, and a guide element for guiding the driver. This segmentation allows each component to have a simple, dedicated function while collectively achieving complex locking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking disk integrates multiple functions: it serves as both the actuating element and the guide for the driver, combining the functions of actuation and guidance into a single component. This merging simplifies the overall construction by eliminating the need for separate double mechanism components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a double mechanism with gearwheels is used to provide indirect operative connection between locking element and drive, then complex locking sequences can be achieved, but the reliability decreases due to damage or foreign body penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The vulnerable gearwheel mechanism is completely removed from the system. Instead of using a double mechanism with gearwheels, the patent employs a direct force transmission path where the driver acts directly on the locking disk, eliminating the risk of gearwheel damage or foreign body interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking disk serves as an intermediary element that directly transmits force from the driver to the locking element. This intermediate component provides a simple, robust force transmission path without the complexity and reliability issues of gearwheel-based double mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If a U-shaped receptacle and guide element are used to produce operative connection between actuating device and locking element, then the locking element can be actuated, but the device complexity increases and the construction becomes multi-part
Solution Approach 1:
The locking disk combines the functions of the U-shaped receptacle and guide element into a single integrated component. The recess in the locking disk serves both to receive the driver and to guide its movement, eliminating the need for separate U-shaped receptacle and guide element components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking disk is a universal component that performs multiple functions: it acts as the actuating element, provides guidance for the driver, and transmits force to the locking element. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of parts while maintaining ease of operation.
4Reliability
If a pin is used to engage around the journal in the locking element, then the locking element can be secured, but the space requirements increase in the direction defined by the pin
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a pin that engages around the journal in one dimension, the driver acts directly on the locking disk in a different dimensional approach. The driver is received in a recess of the locking disk and acts directly on it, eliminating the need for lateral pin engagement and reducing space requirements in the direction previously occupied by the pin.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking unit for a first flap, a second flap and a carrier, comprising a locking element which can be housed in a displaceable manner on the first flap and which comprises a tappet, and a driveable actuation device which is used to displace the locking element. In a first position, said locking element couples the first flap to the second flap in order to form a unit, and in a second position, the first flap is released from the second flap, and in an intermediate position, the first flap and the second flap are fixed together in the carrier. An active connection between the tappet of the locking element and the actuation element can be formed in said intermediate position.