Single-Motor Trunk Latch Module with Worm Gear Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power trunk latch systems require two motors to lock and unlock a vehicle trunk, leading to increased size and complexity, making them difficult to mount in a vehicle body effectively.
Innovation Solution
A trunk latch module utilizing a single motor with a base plate, main gear, claw, link assembly, and guide lever, combined with a worm and worm gear to transmit power, allowing for locking and unlocking operations, and incorporating sensors for automatic locking and emergency unlocking functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two motors are used to lock and unlock the trunk, then the locking and unlocking function is achieved, but the volume of the power trunk latch excessively increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate motors into a single motor system. The first motor is coupled to the first gear mechanism for locking, and the same motor drives the second gear mechanism for unlocking through a shared transmission path. This merging eliminates the need for a second motor while maintaining both locking and unlocking capabilities, thereby reducing the overall volume of the power trunk latch assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The single motor in the patent performs multiple functions: it drives the first gear mechanism for locking, drives the second gear mechanism for unlocking, and can operate in different rotational directions to achieve different functions. This multi-functionality allows one motor to replace what would traditionally require two separate motors, reducing volume while maintaining full functionality.
2Reliability
If two motors are used to lock and unlock the trunk, then the locking and unlocking function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two motor systems into one unified motor-gear mechanism. The single motor is connected to both the first gear mechanism (for locking) and the second gear mechanism (for unlocking) through a shared transmission path. This consolidation reduces the number of independent components, simplifies the control system, and lowers device complexity while maintaining both locking and unlocking functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the gear mechanisms into distinct first and second gear mechanisms that can be independently controlled, but both are driven by a single motor. This segmentation allows for simplified control logic where the motor rotates in different directions to engage different gear mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity compared to having two separate motors with independent control systems.
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 enables efficient locking and unlocking of a vehicle trunk using a single motor, reducing the module's size and complexity, facilitating easier installation in a vehicle body while providing reliable locking and emergency unlocking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The motor may be combined with the main gear through a worm and a worm gear to transmit the power of the motor.
Data Source
AI summary
A trunk latch module for a vehicle may include a base plate, a first locking groove for insertion of a striker into the first locking groove, a main gear rotatably combined with the base plate at a position above the first locking groove, the main gear being supplied with power of a motor, a claw rotatably combined with the base plate, with a second locking groove provided at a first end of the claw, and with a stop protrusion provided on an outer surface of a second end of the claw, a link assembly combined with the main gear, the link assembly transmitting power to the claw by operating in conjunction with rotation of the main gear, a claw-locking assembly locking or releasing the claw by using power transmitted from the link assembly, and a guide lever guiding rotation directions of the link assembly and the claw-locking assembly.