Power Latch Assembly with Shared Kinematic Chain
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current closure latch assemblies for motor vehicles with power release functionality require separate kinematic chains for power-operated and manually-operated latch release mechanisms, leading to increased packaging space and operational complexity, as well as higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A closure latch assembly utilizing a common kinematic chain with a dual-stage cable-actuated configuration connecting a door handle to an actuation rod, which activates both the power-operated and mechanically-operated latch release mechanisms, including a split actuation rod device with segments attached to the door handle and key cylinder, allowing for shared actuation of the latch release mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate kinematic chains are used for power-operated and manually-operated latch release mechanisms, then reliability of latch release is improved, but packaging space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power-operated latch release mechanism and manually-operated latch release mechanism into a single integrated kinematic chain. The actuator rod serves as a common mechanical linkage that transmits actuation force from either the electric actuator or the door handle to the latch mechanism, eliminating the need for separate kinematic chains while maintaining functional reliability of both power and manual release operations
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator rod is designed as a universal component that can be actuated by multiple sources (electric actuator for power release, door handle for manual release). This multi-functional design allows the same kinematic chain to serve both power-operated and manually-operated release functions, reducing overall system complexity while preserving the reliability benefits of having both release mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate kinematic chains are used for power-operated and manually-operated latch release mechanisms, then operational independence is improved, but packaging space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate kinematic chains into a single shared actuator rod that accommodates both power-operated and manually-operated actuation paths. This consolidation significantly reduces the packaging space required for the latch assembly while maintaining the adaptability to respond to both electric actuator signals and manual door handle operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate kinematic chains are used for power-operated and manually-operated latch release mechanisms, then functional independence is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple latch release mechanisms into a single integrated system using a common actuator rod, which reduces the total number of parts and assembly operations required. This merging approach lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant components and simplifying the assembly process, while still providing the versatile functionality of both power-operated and manually-operated release modes
Data Source
AI summary
A closure latch assembly for a motor vehicle closure panel includes a common kinematic chain of components for a latch release mechanism utilizing a first range of handle travel to initiate a power release of a latch mechanism and further utilizing a second range of handle travel to initiate a mechanical release of the latch mechanism. An actuation rod may include a magnet that, when moved out of range of a sensor, signals to initiate the power release. In the event that the power release does not occur, further movement of the actuation rod forces the mechanical release. In both the power release and mechanical release, a pawl is rotated from a ratchet holding position to a ratchet release position. The actuation rod may have a first segment connected to a door handle and a second segment connected to a key cylinder, where either segment may provide the mechanical release.