Vehicle Flap Latch Linkage for Ice-Resistant Opening and Closing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle flaps, such as those covering charging cradles or gas tank ports, are difficult to open and close in extreme weather conditions due to ice or snow buildup, requiring manual effort and tools, and actuators like DE 10 2013 109 961 A1 do not adequately assist in smooth operation.
Innovation Solution
A latching element with a connecting link and latch actuator system, including a guide structure and gear drive, provides controlled opening and closing forces, enhanced by a push-to-open mechanism and emergency release, ensuring smooth operation even in adverse conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a seal is provided on the flap to protect the charging cradle, then the protection and shielding function is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to ice or snow buildup making contact with the seal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a latch mechanism with a connecting link as an intermediary component between the flap and the body. The latch engages with the connecting link to secure the flap in the closed position, eliminating the need for direct manual contact with the seal. The latch actuator serves as another intermediary that mechanically assists the user in opening and closing the flap by applying controlled forces through the connecting link, thereby maintaining protection function while improving ease of operation in adverse weather conditions
2Ease of operation
If an actuator is employed to mechanically assist the user to operate the flap, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latch mechanism and the connecting link into an integrated assembly that works together as a unified system. The latch is rotatably mounted on the body and connects to the flap via the connecting link, forming a cohesive mechanical assistance system. This merged design allows the actuator to provide mechanical assistance through a single integrated pathway rather than requiring separate independent mechanisms, thereby improving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the connecting link when the flap is closed, providing self-latching functionality. The connecting link is configured with a guide structure that automatically guides the latch into the engaged position during the closing motion. This self-service characteristic eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems to maintain the closed position, thereby improving ease of operation while keeping the device complexity relatively low
3Stability of the object's composition
If the latch is built symmetrically with two latching elements, then the stability of the closed position is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric design in the connecting link and latch configuration. The connecting link is configured with a specific geometry that allows it to engage with the latch in a controlled manner. The guide structure on the connecting link is asymmetrically shaped to match the corresponding engagement surface on the latch, creating a stable closed position through asymmetric geometric compatibility rather than symmetric duplication. This approach maintains stability while avoiding the complexity of symmetric dual-latching elements
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 system ensures reliable and tool-free operation of vehicle flaps under various weather conditions, with enhanced force application and manual override, protecting components from environmental influences.
Implementation Method 1
the latch is built symmetrically relative to a central plane, wherein two latching elements are provided, each of which symmetrically engages by means of the latching end with the guide structure on one side
Implementation Method 2
The latch actuator is preferably configured as an electric motor, wherein a gear drive is provided to transmit the rotational speed of a motor shaft of the latch actuator to an output shaft that is rigidly joined to the latch
Implementation Method 3
The appertaining latching end is preferably configured so as to be hook-shaped. In this context, an essential aspect for the latching are the functional surfaces created perpendicular to the rotational axis since they transmit the forces
Data Source
AI summary
An opening and closing device (2) for a motor vehicle has a rotatably mounted flap (10), at least one latching element (84) and a latch (34) with a connecting link (42). The appertaining latching element (84) is arranged on an end of the flap (10) that faces away from a pivot bearing. A latch actuator (50) is provided to rotate the latch (34), while the connecting link (42) has a guide structure (92) for a latching end (86) of the appertaining latching element (84).