Power Latch Assembly Manual Release Reset Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power-actuated closure latch assemblies in motor vehicles face issues with power interruption, preventing the closure panel from being opened or closed, as the pawl cannot move to the ratchet release position without power and cannot be reset to maintain capture positions without electrical actuation.

Innovation Solution

A mechanically actuatable release and reset feature is integrated into the power closure latch assembly, allowing manual operation from within the vehicle cabin, using a backup actuation lever and gear mechanism to mimic the action of the power release motor, enabling the pawl to be released and reset without power, allowing the closure panel to be opened and closed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a power-actuated release mechanism is used to move the pawl to the ratchet release position, then the closure panel can be opened with a single action, but the system becomes inoperative during power interruption

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclosure panel opening operationVSAvoidsystem operation during power interruption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The release mechanism is divided into two independent parts: a power-actuated component for normal operation and a manual backup component for power interruption scenarios. The manual backup component includes a manually rotatable tool receptacle that can independently drive the gear member to move the pawl, ensuring the system remains operational even when power is lost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The manual backup mechanism is pre-configured within the actuator assembly, with the tool receptacle and drive shaft already in position to engage with the gear member. When power interruption occurs, the user can immediately use the pre-positioned manual mechanism without needing to assemble or activate additional components, enabling rapid response during emergencies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Extent of automation

If only power-actuated components are used for pawl movement, then automation is maximized, but mechanical backup capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepawl actuationVSAvoidoperation under power interruption conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the power-actuated mechanism and the manual backup mechanism into a single integrated actuator assembly. The manual tool receptacle and drive shaft are incorporated within the same housing as the power motor, and both mechanisms share common components such as the gear member and pawl. This merging allows the system to maintain high automation under normal conditions while providing mechanical backup capability when power is lost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11280120B2Latch assembly for motor vehicle closure system having power release mechanism with mechanical release and reset feature

Publication Date: 2022.03.22 MAGNA CLOSURES INC

AI summary

A power closure latch assembly with a manually actuatable release and reset feature is provided. The release feature allows the latch assembly to be mechanically released from within a cabin of the vehicle such that a vehicle closure panel can be opened, while the reset feature allows the latch assembly to be manually and mechanically reset from within the cabin of the vehicle to allow the vehicle closure panel to be closed and latched.