Linearly actuating multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle
AssigneeLear Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
InventorsRobin Mihekun Miller, Monte L. Falcoff
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Abstract
A linearly actuating multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle includes a single electromagnetic device which linearly operates a pair of mechanical devices. In another aspect of the present invention, a plunger of a solenoid is selectively moved between various longitudinal positions in order to directly and linearly move a portion of a first mechanical device interfacing with a window assembly and move a portion of a second mechanical device, such as a door lock or latch.
Claims17
A multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle, said apparatus comprising:
- a single electromagnetic device having at least one magnetic field generating member and a movable internal member, said at least one magnetic field generating member being energizable to magnetically move said internal member in a first linear direction;
- a portion of a door engaging mechanical device moving between engaging and disengaging orientations in response to movement of said internal member in said first linear direction;
- and
- a portion of a second mechanical device moving in response to movement of said internal member in a second linear direction, said mechanical devices being separated from each other;
- whereby said portions of said mechanical devices are selectively operated by actuation of said single electromagnetic device in said linear directions.
A multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle, said apparatus comprising:
- a rear door of said automotive vehicle;
- a rear window assembly pivotably mounted to said rear door;
- a solenoid;
- a first mechanical device mounted on said rear door, a portion of said first mechanical device moving in response to linear actuation of said solenoid in a first direction;
- and
- a second mechanical device interfacing with said rear window assembly, a portion of said second mechanical device moving in response to linear actuation of said solenoid in a second direction.
A method of operating a multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle having a rear door, a rear window assembly, a first device, a second device and an electromagnetic actuator, said method comprising the steps of:
- (a) electrically energizing said electromagnetic actuator to cause a magnetic field;
- (b) linearly moving an internal member of said electromagnetic actuator in a first direction in response to step (a);
- (c) linearly moving said internal member of said electromagnetic actuator in a second direction opposite said first direction;
- (d) contacting said rear window assembly with said first device;
- (e) moving a portion of said first device in response to linear movement of said internal member;
- and
- (f) moving a portion of said second device in response to linear movement of said internal member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.