Power door latch method and apparatus
US5746459A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 1996 |
| Grant date | May 5, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 31, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/699
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A power door latch that eliminates the need to slam a door and that also allows the required two stage lock to engage. The OEM striker once engaged is driven toward the door frame in a linear motion, by a reversible electric motor that drives an acme screw within the drive housing. Adjustable limit switches detect full closure and full open to activate and deactivate the motor. A mechanical delay is incorporated within the drive housing to allow the engagement of the two stage lock mechanism. The power door latch can be used with any OEM striker in most vehicles. Additionally, the power door latch can be manually engaged in the event of a power failure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.