Vehicle Park Lock Mechanism for Torque Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle locking mechanisms face challenges in balancing positioning inaccuracies and dissipating dynamic torque loads, leading to shock loads and alignment issues during the locking process, which are not effectively addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
A compact locking mechanism with a degree of freedom of movement for the form-fitting element relative to the axial stroke allows for balancing positioning inaccuracies and dissipating torque loads by interacting with a stop outside the form-fitting region, reducing impact loads and optimizing installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the form-fitting element is rigidly fixed in the axial stroke direction, then positioning precision between the form-fitting element and recess is improved, but dynamic torque loads cause shock loads and damage to the locking actuator
Solution Approach 1:
The form-fitting element is designed with a degree of freedom of movement transverse to the axial stroke direction, allowing it to deflect elastically during the locking process. This dynamic capability enables the element to absorb torque peaks and shock loads while maintaining positioning precision through controlled deflection rather than rigid fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffness parameter of the form-fitting element is optimized to provide sufficient rigidity for positioning accuracy while allowing controlled flexibility to absorb dynamic loads. The element's geometric parameters are designed to balance between being rigid enough for precise engagement and flexible enough to dissipate torque peaks without causing shock loads.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the form-fitting element has a degree of freedom of movement transverse to axial stroke, then dynamic torque loads are dissipated, but positioning inaccuracies between form-fitting element and recess increase
Solution Approach 1:
The degree of freedom of movement is designed to activate only under specific conditions (during locking process and after locking) when torque peaks occur. During normal positioning, the element maintains its axial alignment, but during dynamic loading, it can deflect transverse to absorb shocks, thus resolving the contradiction between positioning accuracy and torque dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The form-fitting element is pre-designed with elastic deflection capabilities and stop elements that provide beforehand cushioning against torque peaks. This allows the element to absorb dynamic loads before they can cause damage, while maintaining positioning accuracy during the actual locking engagement.
3Volume of moving object
If the stop is positioned close to the form-fitting region, then installation space is optimized, but the stop cannot effectively absorb torque loads
Solution Approach 1:
The stop element is positioned in a different spatial dimension (transverse to the axial stroke direction) rather than along the axial direction. This allows the stop to be located close to the form-fitting region for space optimization while still providing effective torque load absorption through its transverse positioning and rotational capability.
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
This solution effectively balances positioning inaccuracies and dissipates dynamic torque loads, reducing shock loads and edge pressures, while optimizing installation space and energy efficiency in the locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
the form-fitting element is deflectable or movable during a locking process and after the end of the locking process
Implementation Method 2
The stop absorbs torque loads of this type, or residual torque loads, which are possibly not entirely or not completely dissipated via this degree of freedom of movement
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a locking mechanism for a vehicle. Between a locking actuator and a rotatable, lockable element with a recess, into which an actuable form-fitting element FE of the locking actuator can be moved in portions in a form-fitting manner in an axial stroke movement in order to lock the element.