Vehicle Tailgate Latch Apparatus with Integrated Cinching Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch apparatuses for vehicle tailgates are bulky and complex due to the need for multiple latches and a complicated structure to ensure complete closure, which increases size and weight.
Innovation Solution
A simplified latch apparatus with a base, latch lever, release unit, and cinching unit powered by a driving motor, featuring a latch groove, fixing protrusions, and a sensor-controlled mechanism to transition from a first locking state to a second locking state for complete closure, reducing overall size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plurality of latches and a complicated cinching structure are used to ensure complete closure of the trunk, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the device complexity and size are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the first locking state (latch groove receiving striker) and second locking state (fixing protrusion engaging with fixing groove) into a single integrated latch lever mechanism. The latch lever simultaneously performs both locking functions through its sequential structure, eliminating the need for separate latches and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable complete closure
Solution Approach 2:
The latch lever is designed as a multi-functional component that can operate in two distinct locking states. It serves both as a primary latch (first locking state) and as a cinching mechanism (second locking state), allowing a single component to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate mechanisms
2Reliability
If a plurality of latches and a complicated cinching structure are used to ensure complete closure of the trunk, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the weight is increased
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the first and second locking functions into a single latch lever assembly, the total mass of metal components is significantly reduced. The integrated design eliminates redundant structural elements and fasteners that would be required for separate latches, thereby reducing the overall weight of the latch apparatus while maintaining dual locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the traditional multi-latch system. By using a simplified sequential engagement mechanism where the latch lever directly transitions between two locking states, redundant parts are removed, resulting in a lighter overall structure
3Device complexity
If a simplified cinching structure with a single latch lever is used, then the device complexity and size are reduced, but the reliability of complete closure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latch lever is designed with dynamic sequential engagement capability, allowing it to transition through two distinct locking states during the closing process. The first locking state provides initial securing, while the second locking state provides enhanced cinching, ensuring reliable complete closure through a dynamic multi-stage process rather than a static single-state mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The latch lever performs preliminary locking in the first locking state (latch groove receiving striker) before completing the full cinching action in the second locking state (fixing protrusion engaging with fixing groove). This preliminary action ensures that the trunk is securely held during the transition, maintaining reliability throughout the closing sequence
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 apparatus effectively ensures complete closure of the tailgate while minimizing size and weight by simplifying the cinching structure, allowing for efficient operation and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a base supporting a driving motor for supplying power
Implementation Method 2
a latch lever rotatably disposed close to the insertion groove of the base being pushed to rotate when the striker is inserted into the insertion groove, and covering the striker inserted in the insertion groove
Implementation Method 3
a release unit disposed close to the latch lever on the base, transmitting power from the driving motor, fixing the position of the latch lever rotating to cover the striker, and allowing the latch lever to rotate when the driving motor is operated
Implementation Method 4
a cinching unit disposed close to the release unit on the base, being operated by the power from the driving motor, and further rotating the latch lever to restrict the striker inserted in the insertion groove when the driving motor is operated with the latch lever covering the striker
Data Source
AI summary
A latch apparatus of a tailgate for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base supporting a driving motor for supplying power and having an insertion groove for inserting a striker. A latch lever is rotatably disposed close to the insertion groove of the base. The latch lever is pushed to rotate when the striker is inserted into the insertion groove, and covers the striker inserted in the insertion groove. A release unit is disposed close to the latch lever on the base. The release unit is configured to transmit power from the driving motor, fix a position of the latch lever rotating to cover the striker, and allow the latch lever to rotate when the driving motor is operated. A cinching unit, operated by the power from the driving motor, is disposed close to the release unit on the base.