Vehicle Flap Drive Device with Telescopic Coupling for Pedestrian Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive devices for vehicle flaps face delays or blocking issues during pedestrian protection deployment due to the coupling of separate actuators, which can lead to incomplete deployment of the vehicle flap in collision scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A drive device with a coupling device featuring a displaceable second coupling element relative to the first coupling element, allowing for increased distance and clearance, ensuring the vehicle flap is not braked or blocked during deployment, and an internal mechanism remains unaffected by external forces, with a guide element guiding the second coupling element along a defined path for precise movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the first actuator is coupled to the vehicle flap via a rigid connection, then the normal opening and closing function is stable, but the deployment movement is blocked or delayed during pedestrian protection activation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic telescopic connection that allows relative movement between the first actuator and the vehicle flap. The telescopic coupling elements enable the connection length to vary, providing rigidity during normal operation and flexibility during emergency deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device acts as an intermediary element between the first actuator and the vehicle flap, mediating the force transmission. It includes the first coupling element connected to the first actuator and the second coupling element connected to the vehicle flap, with a telescopic connection that allows controlled movement.
2Strength
If the first actuator is firmly connected to the vehicle flap, then the actuator provides stable support, but the internal mechanism is exposed to excessive external forces during sudden deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device serves as a protective intermediary that isolates the first actuator's internal mechanism from excessive external forces during sudden deployment. The telescopic connection absorbs and distributes these forces, preventing them from being directly transmitted to the actuator's internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic coupling elements are designed to provide cushioning effect before the full deployment force is transmitted. The ability of the coupling device to move and absorb energy protects the actuator's internal mechanism from shock loads during emergency deployment.
3Speed
If a telescopic coupling device is introduced to allow movement, then clearance is provided for rapid deployment, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is segmented into discrete components: a first coupling element, a second coupling element, and telescopic connection elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity and ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic coupling elements are nested within each other, with one coupling element containing or surrounding the other. This nested structure provides the telescopic movement capability while maintaining a compact form factor and minimizing the overall space required for the coupling device.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device for a vehicle flap, and includes a first actuator for opening and closing the vehicle flap. The first actuator has a first end. The drive device also includes a first connection element for connecting the first end of the first actuator to one of the vehicle door and the vehicle body, and a coupling device having at least one first coupling member for coupling the first connection element to the first actuator. The coupling device comprises a second coupling element which is displaceable relative to the first coupling element between a first end position and a second end position.