Vehicle Closure Backup Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle service port closure systems lack a reliable mechanism for manual operation in case of power loss, and they do not securely maintain the door in a closed position without electrical energization.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle body closure system that includes a powered closure device with a motor and rotary output for electrical operation, combined with a backup manual release mechanism that maintains the door's drive connection, allowing for secure closure and emergency opening without breaking the connection between the powered device and the door, using an intermediate linkage that toggles over-center to lock the door in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a powered closure device is used to close the door, then the door can be securely closed with compression seal, but the system cannot be operated manually in case of power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is segmented into two independent subsystems: a powered closure device for normal operation and a separate backup release mechanism for emergency manual operation. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions between different operational parameters by switching between powered mode (electrical energization) and manual mode (mechanical operation). The backup release mechanism changes the operational parameter from electrical to mechanical, enabling operation under different conditions.
2Reliability
If the door is locked closed automatically by the drive connection, then the door remains securely closed, but the door cannot be opened manually without breaking the drive connection
Solution Approach 1:
The backup release mechanism acts as an intermediary device that interfaces with the existing drive connection without breaking it. It provides a mechanical advantage to overcome the locked position created by the drive connection, enabling manual opening while maintaining the integrity of the powered closure system.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup release mechanism is pre-positioned and pre-configured within the drive connection pathway. It remains dormant during normal powered operation but is ready to be activated immediately when manual operation is needed, providing a safety cushion against power loss scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a backup release mechanism is added to enable manual operation, then the system can be operated without power, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backup release mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as the primary manual opening mechanism, provides a backup for power loss scenarios, and integrates with the existing drive connection structure. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing enhanced system reliability and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup release mechanism is merged with the existing drive connection structure rather than being a completely separate system. It utilizes available space and structural elements within the closure system, reducing the overall complexity increase that would result from a fully independent manual release system.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle body closure system for a service port or storage compartment formed in the body. The closure system includes a door coupled to the vehicle body for movement between open and closed positions. A seal between the body and door requires compression for closure. A powered closure device including a motor and rotary output is operable for electrical energization in a powered mode of the closure system to release the door from the closed position, and the powered closure device also provides a powered mode for closing the door. A backup release mechanism is operable in a manual mode of the closure system, without energizing the powered closure device, to release the door. The door is locked closed automatically by a drive connection through which the powered closure device moves the door. The drive connection is maintained and not interrupted when releasing the door via the backup release mechanism.