Abstract
KEYWORDS:
meachanisms, kinematics, mobility, automotive, latches.
ABSTRACT:
The paper presents a structural kinematical comparative study, in terms of degrees of mobility, for mechanisms utilized as automotive latches for hoods, deck lids and lift gate doors. The study is based on the general mechanical construction of basic main types of such mechanisms utilized as automotive secondary latches. These systems are represented, or approximated, with mechanisms with articulated bars, cams and gears. Mobility calculations for such type of mechanisms involves both the determination and the investigation of all involved kinematical elements and the nature of their mobile restraints (called kinematical couples). Two main groups of secondary automotive latches were identified and studied: hood latches (for engine compartment hood) and back door latches (for trunk/deck lid or lugagge compartment door). Each group of latches is individualized via structural, kinematical and static studies.