Multifunction Coupling Lever for Vehicle Lock Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle latch systems require a large number of components and complex constructions to achieve multiple functions, such as anti-theft, central locking, and child lock, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional coupling lever with an operating lever that can open the locking mechanism through an opening movement, prevented by anti-theft, central locking, and child lock devices, utilizing a compact design with few components, including an internal and external operating lever, and an electrical drive for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components are used to achieve anti-theft, central locking, and child lock functions, then each function can be reliably implemented, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines anti-theft lock, central locking, and child lock functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The locking bolt serves multiple functions simultaneously: it can be actuated by key (anti-theft), remote control (central locking), or internally (child lock), eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bolt is designed as a universal component that performs multiple security functions. A single locking bolt with multiple actuation points can be controlled by different inputs (key, remote, internal lever), making it a multi-functional element that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining all required security capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of components are used to realize multiple functions, then each function can be independently controlled, but the construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple security functions into a single locking bolt assembly, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and installed. This integration directly reduces construction costs while maintaining all required functions through shared mechanical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
By designing a universal locking bolt that can be actuated by multiple inputs (key, remote control, internal lever), the system achieves high adaptability and versatility without requiring separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing manufacturing and assembly costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate locking mechanisms are used for different functions, then each function can be independently operated, but the construction becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking mechanisms into a single compact assembly. The locking bolt, catch, and pawl are integrated into one another, with multiple actuation points positioned closely together, creating a space-efficient design that maintains operational independence for each function without increasing overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are nested within each other in a compact arrangement. The locking bolt is positioned within the catch structure, and the pawl is integrated with the bolt, creating a nested configuration that minimizes the volume occupied by the locking mechanism while allowing all functions to operate independently.
4Ease of operation
If an internal operating lever is used for opening from inside, then convenient operation from interior is achieved, but unauthorized opening from inside is possible without security prevention
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic control of the locking bolt's actuation points. The internal operating lever can only actuate the locking bolt when specific conditions are met (e.g., when the child lock is deactivated). The system dynamically adjusts which actuation points are accessible based on the security state, allowing convenient internal operation only when authorized while preventing unauthorized opening when security is active.
Solution Approach 2:
Different actuation points of the locking bolt have different local qualities or accessibility conditions. The internal operating lever can access certain actuation points only under specific conditions (when child lock is off), while other actuation points remain inaccessible or inactive when security features are activated, creating localized functional differences that provide both convenience and security.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device for a lock of a motor vehicle, said actuation device allowing a plurality of functions without requiring a large number of parts and/or a complex and/or voluminous structure. This is achieved in that the actuation device according to the claims for opening a locking mechanism of a motor vehicle lock comprises an anti-theft device, a central locking device, and a childproof lock device. A multifunction coupling lever is provided which is capable of opening a locking mechanism of a motor vehicle lock by means of an opening movement. The opening movement of the multifunction coupling lever can be prevented by the anti-theft device, the central locking device, and the childproof lock device. Thus, an actuation device is provided which is capable of performing a plurality of functions while comprising few components. Because only a few components are required, the structural complexity can be low.