Vehicle Sliding Panel Latch Integrating Guide and Catch

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sliding panel latch systems in vehicles lack sufficient retaining force, occupy unnecessary space, and do not provide optimal structural configurations for maximizing storage or functional options, while also failing to meet safety standards like FMVSS 201.

Innovation Solution

A latch system featuring a track with guide members and a catch mechanism, including a biasing member like a spring, which allows the panel to be securely latched without additional structural members, providing a positive engagement and meeting safety standards by requiring a controlled release effort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a detent or latch system is provided to retain the sliding panel in a desired position, then the panel can be secured in position, but the latch system occupies space in the vehicle and requires additional bulkhead or structural members

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatching forceVSAvoidspace occupied by latch system

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The latch system is integrated directly into the guide member structure, combining the guiding function and latching function into a single component. The catch mechanism is formed as part of the guide member, eliminating the need for separate bulkhead or structural members, thus reducing the volume occupied by the latch system while maintaining reliable latching force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The guide member serves multiple functions: it guides the panel movement along the track and simultaneously provides the latching function through the integrated catch mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structural members, reducing space occupation while ensuring reliable panel retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If a latch system is provided to secure the panel, then the panel can be retained in position, but the existing systems do not provide sufficient latching or retaining force

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatching forceVSAvoidlatch system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The biasing member is pre-loaded to maintain the catch in a positioned state that engages with the panel. This preliminary action ensures that the latching force is always available and sufficient to secure the panel, while the simple spring mechanism provides this force without complex structural requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The ramp surface of the catch is configured with a specific curvature and angle that allows the panel to engage smoothly while maximizing the latching force. The curved geometry of the ramp surface converts the panel's movement into effective latching action, providing sufficient retaining force with a simple catch structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Reliability

If existing latch systems are used, then the panel can be retained, but they do not meet safety standards like FMVSS 201 and do not provide controlled release effort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety standard complianceVSAvoidrelease effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The catch mechanism is designed with a ramp surface that requires a specific release effort to disengage, ensuring that the panel cannot be accidentally opened while allowing intentional opening when sufficient force is applied. This dynamic design meets safety standards by providing controlled release characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The geometry of the ramp surface and the positioning of the catch are optimized to provide the exact release effort required by safety standards. By adjusting parameters such as the ramp angle and catch position, the system achieves both safety compliance and controlled operability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution enables a compact, efficient, and secure latching mechanism that maximizes storage options and meets safety standards by providing a controlled release effort, ensuring the panel is securely retained without excessive bulkhead or structural members.

Implementation Method 1

A latch system includes a catch and a biasing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS7823949B2Latch system for sliding panel in vehicle

Publication Date: 2010.11.02 YANFENG CZECHIA AUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR SYST SRO

AI summary

A vehicle trim component is disclosed. The vehicle trim component includes a base with a track. A panel movable between a first position and a second position and having at least one guide member at its lateral edge that engages the track as the panel is moved between the first position and the second position. A latch system including a catch and a biasing member. The guide member engages the catch when the panel is in the first position.