Vehicle door unfolding device with functions of keeping open and assisting in closing

[0034] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the apparatus and methods is presented herein, by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] see now figure 1 , reference numeral 10 generally designates the door assembly. The door assembly 10 can be installed as a driver's side door, a passenger's side door or a rear passenger door. Additionally, although reference is made herein to the door 11 included in the assembly 10, the door assembly 10 may be installed as a vehicle tailgate assembly such as a liftgate, trunk, or tailgate. The lock assembly 12 is operatively engaged to the door 11 to hold the door (or liftgate, trunk, tailgate, etc.) in a closed position and release the door to allow a user to move the door 11 to an open position. The vehicle lock assembly 12 is an electromechanical latch assembly in some embodiments, thereby providing opening assistance to the user.

[0036] In the embodiments described herein...