Vehicle Latch Switch Configuration for Cinching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle latches require complex circuitry with multiple interconnected electrical traces, making them costly and inefficient, particularly in applications like tailgates that need two latches for secure closure.
Innovation Solution
A simplified latch assembly using two switches connected by a common electrical trace, which reduces circuit complexity and costs, and includes a controller to initiate a cinching sequence based on switch states, allowing the catch and pawl to move between open, secondary, and primary positions for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex circuitry with multiple interconnected electrical traces is used in vehicle latches, then the latch can provide multiple functions (power closing, manual closing, power release, manual release, cinching), but the cost and complexity of the latch system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly uses a single electrical trace that serves multiple functions by connecting to different switches at different positions. This common trace enables power delivery to both the first switch (for catch actuation) and the second switch (for pawl actuation), as well as receiving signals from both switches, thereby providing multiple functions through a unified electrical pathway rather than separate interconnected traces
2Reliability
If multiple interconnected electrical traces are used in latch assembly, then reliable signal transmission can be achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple electrical trace functions into a single common electrical trace. This common trace combines power delivery and signal reception functions, connecting both the first switch and the second switch through one unified pathway. This reduction from multiple interconnected traces to a single trace simplifies manufacturing and reduces component count while maintaining the necessary electrical connectivity for reliable operation
3Ease of manufacture
If a simplified latch assembly with fewer components is used, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the ability to provide multiple functions (power closing, cinching, locking) may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The simplified latch assembly maintains full functional capability through the multi-functional common electrical trace that enables power delivery to both switches and reception of signals from both switches. The controller interprets different switch states to execute different functions including power closing, manual closing, power release, manual release, and cinching operations, thereby preserving functional versatility despite the simplified electrical architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly configured to be fixed to a vehicle body of the vehicle or a closure of the vehicle. The latch assembly including a catch, a pawl, a controller and circuitry electrically connected to the controller. The circuitry including a first switch and a second switch. The first switch operable between a closed state, in which the first switch is configured to send first signals to the controller, and an open state. The second switch operable between a closed state, in which the second switch is configured to send second signals to the controller, and an open state. The controller configured to, responsive to receiving the first signals and not receiving the second signals, initiate a cinching sequence, in which the catch is configured to move from the secondary position to a primary position indicative of a second closed position.