Vehicle Door Opening Structure with Selective Locking and Ramp Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle door systems lack flexibility and convenience, particularly in Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs), as they require separate space for door ramps and do not allow for diverse door opening configurations suitable for various environments and user needs.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle door opening structure featuring a first door unit and a second door unit that can be selectively locked and unlocked, allowing the second door to function as a ramp by being rotated open to provide a sloped surface, enabling independent or simultaneous operation with the first door.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate door ramp storage space is provided on the underfloor, then the ramp function can be achieved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The second door unit is integrated with the door ramp function, merging two separate functions (door opening and ramp provision) into a single component. This eliminates the need for a separate ramp storage space on the underfloor, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second door unit serves multiple functions: it can be opened together with the first door for normal access, or independently rotated to provide a ramp surface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated ramp storage space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second door is configured to rotate open independently, then ramp function is provided, but the door opening mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit dynamically adjusts between locked and unlocked states based on operational needs. When unlocked, the second door can rotate independently for ramp function; when locked, it opens with the first door. This dynamic control enables multiple opening types without requiring permanently complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit acts as an intermediary mechanism that controls the relationship between the first and second door units. It enables selective coupling or decoupling of the doors, allowing flexible opening configurations without permanently complex mechanical linkages.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the first and second door units are selectively locked together, then coordinated opening is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit automatically locks or unlocks the door units based on predetermined conditions or control signals. This self-service mechanism reduces the operational burden on users, as they do not need to manually manage complex locking procedures while still achieving stable door unit configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment vehicle door opening structure includes a first door unit positioned at a side of a vehicle and including a first door, a second door unit including a second door positioned adjacent to the first door, a locking device configured to selectively lock the first door unit and the second door unit together, and a controller configured to fix the locking device so that the first door unit and the second door unit are configured to be opened together or to release the locking device so that the first door unit and the second door unit are configured to be opened independently.