Modular Latch Actuator with Gear-Driven Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching mechanisms lack a seamless integration of manual and electrical actuation methods, leading to complexity and potential security vulnerabilities in releasing the latch, especially in scenarios requiring both manual and electrical operation.
Innovation Solution
A modular latch assembly with a separate actuator unit that includes a drive and gear system, allowing for both manual operation through a release lever and electrical actuation via a motor, enabling the latch to transition between closed and open conditions efficiently and securely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a latch assembly integrates both manual and electrical actuation methods, then the versatility and reliability of the latching mechanism is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed with a universal release mechanism that can be actuated by either manual force through the release lever or electrical force through the motor-driven actuator. The catch jaw and release pawl components are configured to respond to either actuation method, allowing the same mechanical structure to serve multiple functions and be controlled through different input methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed as a separate, modular unit that can be independently attached to or removed from the latch assembly. This segmentation allows the electrical actuation components to be added or replaced without modifying the core latch mechanism, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Ease of manufacture
If the actuator is designed as a separate unit, then the ease of installation and replacement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed as a self-contained modular unit with its own housing, drive mechanism, and gear system that interfaces with the latch assembly through standardized connection points. This segmentation enables independent manufacturing, testing, and replacement of the actuator without affecting the latch assembly, significantly improving installation ease and maintenance procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator components are nested within a compact housing structure that integrates the motor, gear system, and release member in a space-efficient arrangement. This nesting approach allows the separate actuator unit to maintain a compact form factor, reducing the overall space requirements while preserving the benefits of modularity and ease of installation.
3Ease of operation
If the release member moves linearly to enable catch jaw movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release member serves as an intermediary component that translates the linear motion from the actuator into rotational or pivotal movement of the catch jaw. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the operation by providing a direct linear actuation interface while managing the complexity of converting motion types through well-defined mechanical linkages between the release member and catch jaw.
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 provides a reliable and secure mechanism for latching and unlatching, allowing for easy installation and replacement of actuators, reducing complexity and enhancing security by enabling both manual and electrical operation without the need for extensive disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
The gear system is configured to move a release member. The release member is operative to move in a first direction in response to operation of the drive.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator (24, 528, 606) is configured to cause a latch assembly (22, 322, 422, 522, 526, 604) to be changed from a closed condition in which an item is latched, to an open condition in which the item is unlatched. A catch jaw (30, 530) is operative in a first position to engage a member (106) connected to the item when the latch assembly is in the closed condition. The catch jaw in a second position enables the member to disengage from the catch jaw when the latch assembly is in the open condition. The actuator assembly includes a drive (152, 526, 608) and a gear system (157, 563, 610). The gear system is operative to move a release member (174, 538, 612). The release member is configured to be in operative connection with the catch jaw such that the movement of the release member causes the catch jaw to be enabled to move to the second position.