Power Locks: Description and Operation

INTRODUCTION
The Viper utilizes a new Electronic Entry Module (EEM). The EEM provides Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) functions as well as opening or unlatching of the doors. The Viper utilizes electronic opening of the doors based on inputs from the switches on the inside or the outside of the vehicle. It also allows for the rolling lock feature.

Electronic Locking refers to a system whereby the lock/unlock state is electronic rather than mechanical. The EEM determines the lock/unlock state of the module. Activating the lock/unlock switch located on each inside door handle assembly toggles the lock/unlock state.

SYSTEM OPERATION
Auto-Lock/Auto-Unlock
Once the vehicle is started and driven to a speed of 8 to 13 Km/h (5 to 8 mph) the doors will automatically lock, therefore, the LED will be extinguished at this time. There is no defeat of the Auto-lock feature. The only difference from other automatic locking systems is that specific throttle angle is not required for the locks to actuate. It is strictly a speed based system. The vehicle will automatically lock if the vehicle speed is greater than 8 to 13 Km/h (5 to 8 mph) or if CCD communication is lost with Ignition key in the run position. The vehicle will automatically unlock if the key is in the ignition with the Driver's door open or if an inside handle is actuated while the vehicle is not in motion. The vehicle is entered by pushing the outside door handle. This will activate an electrical switch which is received by the EEM. If the vehicle is unlocked, the EEM will power unlatch the respective door. Similarly, exiting the vehicle occurs by pulling the inside door handle. If the conditions are acceptable, the respective door will unlatch.

Power Door Locks/Electric Latches
The Viper is using electric door latches to accomplish opening and closing of the vehicle doors and electronics to accomplish the lock function that was typically performed with linkage inside the door. The system utilizes electric latches and switches both inside and outside the vehicle. These switches are inputs to the EEM and if the conditions are correct, the EEM will unlatch the doors. The lock function is simply the ignoring of the switch inputs that would normally open the doors. There is no mechanical lock linkage inside the door. This results in fewer moving parts and problems associated with packaging the linkage mechanisms. The outside door handle and inside door handles control micro switches that are the inputs to the EEM module. Located below the inside door switches are the lock switches with LED indicators. The LED lock indicator informs the driver and passenger of the lock status of the doors. If the light is off, the doors are locked. If there is no activity for approximately one minute (input to the EEM module) and the key is in the ON or OFF position, the LED will be turned off to reduce battery draw.

Mechanical Release
Each respective door can be unlatched mechanically by pulling the manual release pull handle located on the B-pillar area of the door. This can be accessed through the liftgate area.