Integrated Powered Door Latch for Thin-Wall Camper Doors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive and RV door locks are too bulky and cumbersome for thin walls due to separate components and require wiring or dedicated batteries, making them unsuitable for collapsible structures like collapsible rooftop campers, and lack manual operation from inside for safety.
Innovation Solution
A compact powered door latch with all electronics on the frame side, combining latch and deadbolt functions into a single bolt, operated by solenoid, key, or lever, and recessed handles to fit thin walls without protrusions, using a single bolt mechanism for electronic and manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate components (interior handle, exterior handle, latch, motor) are used in different locations, then the door lock system can be manually and electronically operated, but the system becomes bulky and cumbersome for thin walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the interior handle, exterior handle, latch, and motor into a single integrated door lock assembly. This merging of previously separate components into one compact unit reduces the overall volume and eliminates the need for multiple discrete parts distributed across the door structure, directly resolving the contradiction between operational capability and system size.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated door lock assembly performs multiple functions (manual operation via interior/exterior handles, electronic operation via motor, latching) within a single component structure. This multi-functionality allows the compact assembly to replace what would traditionally require separate components, achieving both operational versatility and size reduction.
2Extent of automation
If wiring and batteries are required on the door side, then electronic operation is enabled, but the system becomes too heavy and cumbersome for thin camper walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the heavy battery component from the door-side assembly and relocates it to the vehicle's main battery system. The door lock assembly retains only the necessary motor and control electronics, which can draw power from the vehicle's existing electrical system. This extraction of the battery significantly reduces the weight and complexity of the door-mounted components while preserving electronic operation capability.
3Reliability
If two bolts (latch bolt and deadbolt) are used, then security is improved, but the system becomes too bulky for thin walls less than 1 inch thick
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latch bolt and deadbolt functions into a single multi-functional bolt mechanism. This single bolt can perform both latching and locking operations, eliminating the need for two separate bolts and their associated mechanisms. The consolidation maintains security functionality while reducing the overall volume of the latch assembly to accommodate thin wall installations.
4Ease of operation
If handles and levers protrude significantly from the door surface, then manual operation is easier, but the latch becomes unsuitable for folding panels and thin walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the interior and exterior handles to be recessed into the door surface rather than protruding outward. The handles are nested within the door thickness, allowing them to be operated manually while maintaining a flush or near-flush profile with the door surface. This nesting approach enables ease of operation without compromising the flat profile needed for folding panels and thin wall applications.
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
The design allows for a lightweight, compact, and aesthetically pleasing door latch that can be electronically or manually operated, suitable for thin walls, eliminating the need for door-side wiring or batteries, and ensuring safety with manual operation from inside.
Implementation Method 1
The solenoid may be used to retract or extend the bolt for electronic locking and unlocking
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a door latch comprising a frame piece and door piece. The frame piece may include a lever comprising a lever connector; an actuator comprising an actuator connector; a cylinder comprising an arm; and a catch configured to be moved by the lever connector, the actuator connector and the arm. The door piece may include a bolt configured to laterally slide between the frame piece and the door piece, thereby transitioning the door latch between an unlatched position and a latched position.