Solutions
The easiest way to fix the
problem with the design of the trunk latch for a Mitsubishi Eclipse is
to install a stronger latch spring that would have enough force/tension
to hold up the trunk after pulling the remote release lever. To fix
this problem, I would create a prop mechanism that is powered by the loaded
spring. It would be released by the pull on the mechanism to open
the trunk. The prop would reside on the right hand side of the bottom
mechanism and it would be approximately 1 ½ to 2 inches long.
When the trunk is opened, the bottom mechanism will rotate counter clockwise
forcing the prop to rest between the trunk lid and the mechanism.
The prop will have to be reinforced to allow the situation that I am trying
to solve to not happen. Also, a larger slit will have to be cut along
the rear part of the vehicle to allow for the prop to be used effectively.
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Another
way to use a prop to solve the problem would be to use the prop, but not
let it reside on the bottom hinge. If you took the prop and put it
to the right of the hinge, and created an activator (a embossed slit) on
the hinge so that when it rotates counter clockwise, it would hit/trigger
the prop to pop up and hold the trunk so that it wouldn’t lock again.
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This would have to be a spring-loaded prop that after being actuated by the rotation of the bottom hinge would have enough stability to handle the weight of the trunk.
Another
different design to take into consideration is to have compressed air in
the rods that support the lifting of the trunk. The rods act like
pistons that provide enough force to hold the trunk up after being popped
open by the remote release. They are located on the bottom side of the
trunk lid, and are connected to the rear body panel of the car inside the
trunk (see link below). If the rods were able to release their power
when the trunk is first popped open, and not just at the top
of the open position of the trunk (you can see two rods supporting
the trunk in the picture), they would be able to assist with the extra
weight that isn’t compensated for in the latch spring.
