Soft Close Hatch Latch Retrofit Cam Hook Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automobile hatch closing mechanisms are not easily adaptable to various latch designs and are difficult to retrofit, especially in electric vehicles with forward-facing storage compartments, and there is a need for a simple, versatile solution that can work with different types of hatches and latches without irreversible modifications.
Innovation Solution
A cam surface-guided hook plate mechanism driven by a crank arm, where the crank arm drives one point of the hook in a circular path to pull the hatch closed and then swings clear of the striker to allow opening, using simple controls and compatible with various latch designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing hatch closing mechanisms are used, then the closing function is provided, but the adaptability to various latch designs is poor and retrofitting is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The closing mechanism is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple latch designs. The cam surface and hook plate assembly can be adjusted or reconfigured to work with different striker geometries and latch mechanisms, making the system adaptable to various applications without requiring complete redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing mechanism is divided into separate functional components: the motor assembly, crank arm, hook plate, and cam surface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and easily replaced or adapted for different latch configurations, facilitating retrofitting while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing hatch closing mechanisms are used, then the closing function is provided, but the ease of retrofitting is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism includes pre-configured mounting interfaces and adjustment features that are prepared in advance for easy installation. The cam surface and hook plate are pre-assembled as a unit that can be quickly mounted to the existing latch structure, reducing retrofitting complexity and installation time.
3Ease of operation
If a motor-driven crank arm mechanism is used, then controlled closure is achieved, but the interference with stock latch or striker during opening may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The hook plate is designed to dynamically change its position relative to the striker during operation. During closing, the hook plate engages the striker for controlled closure. During opening, the mechanism allows the hook plate to disengage or swing clear of the striker path, eliminating interference while maintaining smooth closure operation.
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
This solution provides a versatile, easily adaptable hatch closing mechanism that can be used with multiple latch designs, allowing for smooth, controlled closure and opening without interfering with the stock latch or striker, and can be easily retrofitted, enhancing user convenience and applicability across various vehicle types.
Implementation Method 1
a cam surface to guide a hook plate along a path
Implementation Method 2
a crank arm—with a cam surface for guiding the path of the hook. The crank arm drives one point of the hook in a circular path
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment a retrofittable soft-close device is configured to close an automobile hatch. Once a cycle is initiated a hook plate may pull a striker towards a latched position.