Vehicle Closure Latch Assembly With Single-Motor Power Release and Child Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle closure latches with power-operated features, such as power release, double pull inside release, and child lock, require complex arrangements and additional actuators, and lack a reliable mechanism to operate during power interruptions.

Innovation Solution

A closure latch assembly with a single motor-powered actuator that moves between a home, release, and double pull lock positions, incorporating a ratchet and pawl mechanism, and an emergency mechanical release for power failure scenarios, allowing seamless operation and reduced complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power-operated actuators are added to provide power release, double pull inside release, and child lock functions, then the operational features and regulatory compliance are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational featuresVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power release actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: power release, double pull inside release, and child lock operations. The actuator can be positioned in different states (home position, release position, double pull lock position) to achieve different functions, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines previously separate mechanisms (power release actuator, child lock actuator, and inside release mechanism) into a single integrated power release actuator system. The actuator housing contains all control features, and the latch mechanism is mechanically linked to handle both single pull and double pull release operations through the same actuator.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If a single motor-powered actuator is used to reduce complexity, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability during power interruptions may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidreliability during power interruptions

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A mechanical release mechanism serves as an intermediary backup system that can operate independently of the electrical actuator. This mechanical system includes a release lever and associated linkages that can manually disengage the latch if electrical power is unavailable, ensuring the door can still be opened in emergency situations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a mechanical backup release mechanism that is prepared in advance to handle power failure scenarios. This cushioning mechanism ensures that if the primary electrical actuator fails due to power interruption, the secondary mechanical system is already in place to provide the necessary release function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex arrangements with supplemental actuators are used to provide double pull inside release and power child lock, then the operational requirements are met, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational requirementsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The power release actuator is designed as a universal component that handles multiple operational requirements (power release, double pull inside release, and child lock) through a single device. This eliminates the need to manufacture and assemble multiple separate actuators, reducing both manufacturing cost and assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple previously separate components into a single integrated actuator assembly. The actuator housing contains all necessary control features, and the mechanical linkages are designed to provide both single pull and double pull release functions through the same actuator mechanism, simplifying manufacturing and assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 provides a simplified, reliable, and efficient power-operated closure latch system that maintains functionality during power interruptions, ensuring safe and convenient door operation while reducing complexity and cost.

Implementation Method 1

A ratchet and pawl mechanism are provided in the closure latch assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRatchet mechanism: Ratchet

Data Source

PatentUS20250230690A1Closure latch assembly equipped with child lock mechanism and power release mechanism having directional controlling actuation of the child lock mechanism

Publication Date: 2025.07.17 MAGNA CLOSURES INC

AI summary

A closure latch assembly and system for a vehicle closure panel equipped with a latch mechanism having a latched position and an unlatched position and a power release mechanism moveable between home position, a release position and a double pull position and/or a child lock position, wherein a single motor is operable to move the power release mechanism between from the home position to the release position and from the home position to the double pull position and/or the child lock position.