Movable Latch Bolt for Vehicle Roof Opening Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle roof opening locking devices require users to manually open bolts for latching, are aesthetically limited, and cannot lock in the open position due to the absence of linking elements between guide arms.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a movable latch system, featuring a bolt that pivots automatically with the movement of the roof opening, allowing for secure locking in both closed and open positions using a single fixed striker on the vehicle, and reducing manual intervention through convex edges and assistance cylinders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional locking device with a fixed bolt is used, then the locking mechanism is simple in structure, but it requires manual intervention to open the bolt for latching and cannot lock in the open position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the bolt movable rather than fixed. The bolt is mounted on a base fixed to the sash and can pivot around an axis to automatically follow the trajectory of strikers. This dynamic configuration allows the bolt to engage with strikers in both closed and open positions without manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through the automatic pivoting mechanism. The bolt automatically follows the striker's trajectory and engages with it without requiring user action. The convex edges on the bolt and corresponding trajectories ensure automatic alignment and engagement, allowing the locking device to service itself throughout the motion range.
2Reliability
If additional fixed strikers are installed to enable locking in open position, then the locking capability is improved, but the number of parts and structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single movable bolt that can engage with strikers in multiple positions (both closed and open). The bolt's ability to pivot and follow different trajectories allows one component to perform multiple locking functions, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for different positions and reducing the total number of parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic pivoting bolt can adapt its position and orientation to engage with strikers at different locations and angles. This single dynamic component replaces what would traditionally require multiple fixed components, achieving multi-position locking capability while minimizing the quantity of parts.
3Extent of automation
If the bolt is made movable to follow striker trajectory, then automatic locking is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes by defining specific geometric parameters for the convex edges and trajectories. The convex edges are shaped with specific angles and curvatures that correspond to the striker trajectories, allowing the movable bolt to automatically follow the path. By carefully designing these geometric parameters, the system achieves automatic locking while maintaining feasible manufacturing precision requirements.
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
Enables easy, efficient, and aesthetically improved locking and unlocking of the roof opening with reduced manual effort and parts, ensuring safety in both closed and open positions without the need for additional fixed strikers.
Implementation Method 1
the bolt comprising a first convex edge so as to form a angle adapted with the first trajectory of the movable striker so that the force of the movable striker on the first edge allows the pivoting of the bolt around said axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for locking an opening panel (16) for a motor vehicle (10), the opening panel being provided with an opening mechanism so that it can be moved between a closed position in which the opening panel closes off an opening (18) in the roof (12) of the vehicle, and an open position in which the opening panel at least partially uncovers the opening, the opening mechanism for opening the opening panel comprising at least one link rod (22) a first end of which is articulated to the vehicle about a first fixed transverse axis (C) and the second end of which is articulated to the mobile opening panel about a second transverse axis (B), the opening panel also being mounted such that it can pivot about a third transverse axis (A) able to move longitudinally with respect to the roof, the locking device comprising a latch (26) formed of a base (28) fixed to the opening panel and having a throat (30) able to accept a first striker (32) in the closed position and a second striker (38) in the open position. According to the invention, at least one of the strikers is mounted such that it can move relative to the latch and relative to the vehicle. The invention also relates to a latch designed for such a locking device.