Retractable Latch Bolt for Automotive Storage Compartment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latch assemblies for automotive storage compartments face issues with increased closing force, initial impact noise, and parts deformation due to extended latch bolts hitting fixed parts during closure, which are not effectively addressed by existing solutions.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a hollow latch casing and an elongated latch bolt, biased by a spring member, which moves between extended and retracted positions to securely engage an anchor pocket, reducing closing force and noise by retaining the latch bolt within the casing until the lid is closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the latch bolt remains extended during open hatch condition, then the latch assembly structure is simple, but the closing force increases and impact noise occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The latch bolt is designed to be dynamically repositionable between extended and retracted states. A retractor mechanism with spring bias automatically moves the latch bolt from an extended position (when hatch is open) to a retracted position (when hatch is closed), allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational state rather than remaining statically extended
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor mechanism performs preliminary action by automatically retracting the latch bolt before the hatch fully closes. This preliminary retraction prevents the latch bolt from contacting the anchor pocket/striker with excessive force during closure, eliminating impact noise and reducing closing force requirements
2Device complexity
If the latch bolt remains extended during open hatch condition, then the latch assembly structure is simple, but impact noise and parts deformation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The latch bolt transitions from a static extended position to a dynamic system that automatically retracts. The spring-biased retractor mechanism ensures the latch bolt is pulled back into the latch casing when the hatch is open, preventing harmful contact during closure operations and eliminating impact noise and deformation risks
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful extended position of the latch bolt is extracted or removed from the operational sequence. The retractor mechanism effectively takes out the problematic extended state by automatically retracting the latch bolt, separating the latching function from the harmful contact condition
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 solution decreases closing force, minimizes initial impact noise, and prevents parts deformation by ensuring the latch bolt is retracted when the compartment is open and extends only when the lid is closed, enhancing the quiet and efficient operation of storage compartment lids.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member disposed within the cavity in the hollow latch casing... The spring member has a bolt spring end engaging the elongated latch bolt and a casing spring end engaging the hollow latch casing
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly (10) for a storage compartment in an automobile is disclosed. The latch assembly (10) includes a latch module (12 1), including a latch bolt (24), and a striker (14 1). The latch bolt (24) is moveable between an extended latched position, in which the bolt (24) axis is coaxial with a longitudinal axis (Xc) of the latch casing (22), and a retracted unlatched position, in which the bolt (24) is withdrawn into, and its axis is oblique with respect to, the latch casing (22). When in the oblique position, the latch bolt (24) is retained in the unlatched position within the latch casing (22). A spring member (26) within the latch casing (22) biases the latch bolt (24) to both extend axially from the latch casing (22), and pivotally toward the inner retaining surface of the latch casing (22). Upon closure, the bolt (24) is moved, via contact with the striker (14 1), from the withdrawn oblique retained position, and returns via spring bias to the latched extended position.