Vehicle Handle Assembly with Load Cell Switch for Powered Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle closure assemblies, such as doors, rely on mechanical latches for operation, which require user effort and lack automated actuation, posing challenges when actuators fail or the vehicle is on an incline.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle handle assembly with a switch mounted to a handle core, secured to a powered closure assembly, transitions states upon user grasp, triggering actuators to move the closure assembly between open and closed positions, incorporating load cell switches and a RADAR sensor for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical latches are used for closure assembly operation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring user effort and lacking automated actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical latch system with an automated actuator system. The actuator, controlled by a switch mounted on the handle core, automatically moves the closure assembly between open and closed positions without requiring manual manipulation of mechanical latches. This substitution of mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems directly improves ease of operation while accepting increased device complexity.
2Reliability
If automated actuators are used for closure assembly movement, then the reliability is improved by enabling operation when mechanical latches fail or on inclines, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an actuator system that can reliably move the closure assembly regardless of gravitational effects on inclines or mechanical latch failures. The actuator provides powered assistance that ensures reliable operation in conditions where pure mechanical systems would fail, directly improving reliability while necessitating the added complexity of the electromechanical actuation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switch as an intermediary component between the user and the actuator system. The switch, mounted on the handle core, detects user input and triggers the actuator to move the closure assembly. This intermediary enables reliable automated operation while providing a simple user interface that masks the underlying system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a switch is mounted on the handle core to trigger automated movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The switch serves as an intermediary component that translates simple user actions (grasping or pressing the handle) into automated actuator commands. By mounting the switch directly on the handle core, the patent creates a straightforward user interface that improves ease of operation while the switch itself absorbs much of the control system complexity, keeping the user interaction simple despite the underlying automated system.
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
Enables automated and efficient movement of powered closure assemblies, ensuring operation even when mechanical latches fail or on inclines, with integrated sensors for improved safety and user interaction.
Implementation Method 1
The switch is a load cell switch
Implementation Method 2
a RADAR sensor assembly within the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle handle assembly includes, among other things, an attachment bracket secured to a powered closure assembly of a vehicle, a handle core that is mounted to the attachment bracket, and a switch mounted to the handle core. The switch is configured to transition from a first state to a second state in response to a user grasping the handle core. The powered closure assembly can move between a first position and a different, second position in response to a transition of the switch.