Seatback Latch Assembly Using Dual-Direction Striker Constraint
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing latch assembly in vehicles experiences rattle noise due to the striker being fixed in only one direction, leading to instability and noise during operation.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly design featuring a latch bracket, hinge bracket, pressing bar, link unit, and return springs that allow the striker to be fixed in both directions, reducing rattle noise through a mechanism that stabilizes the striker with a combination of upward and downward forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the striker is fixed in only one direction by the latch, then the structure is simple, but rattle noise occurs and stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly uses a cable connected to the rotation bracket that can be pulled to rotate the latch upward, dynamically changing the striker's position from locked to unlocked state, allowing controlled movement while maintaining stability in the locked position
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing bar acts as an intermediary component between the latch and striker, providing additional downward pressing force on the striker to enhance stability and eliminate rattle noise while the latch provides upward fixing force
2Device complexity
If the striker is fixed in only one direction, then the number of components is reduced, but rattle noise occurs during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring provides dynamic elastic restoring force that continuously presses the pressing bar downward against the striker, eliminating rattle noise while allowing the system to return to its locked position after being unlocked
Solution Approach 2:
The link unit serves as a mechanical intermediary that transmits the cable's pulling force to rotate the latch, while the return spring acts as another intermediary providing continuous downward force through the pressing bar to eliminate noise
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 increases the fixing force on the striker, significantly reducing rattle noise and enhancing operational stability.
Implementation Method 1
a first end of the return spring is coupled to the supporting plate portion and a second end of the return spring is coupled to the second link bar, and configured to apply an elastic restoring force upward to the pressing bar
Implementation Method 2
a first end of the return spring is coupled to the latch bracket and a second end of the return spring is coupled to the latch, and configured to apply an elastic restoring force downward to the latch
Implementation Method 3
a latch having a rear side portion hinge-coupled to the latch bracket, having a front side portion bent downward, and having an end portion provided with a claw portion
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed is a latch assembly with reduced rattle noise. The latch assembly includes a latch bracket mounted on a seatback frame, and includes a latch having a rear side portion hinge-coupled to the latch bracket, having a front side portion bent downward, and having an end portion provided with a claw portion. Furthermore, the latch assembly includes a cable connected to an upper surface of the latch, a hinge bracket coupled to the rear side portion of the latch, a pressing bar horizontally positioned below the claw portion, and a link unit connecting the hinge bracket and the pressing bar to each other, the link unit being connected to the latch bracket, and the link unit being configured such that the pressing bar is moved upward when the latch is rotated downward.