Sunshade assembly
By designing a low-profile sunshade assembly, the interference problem between the sunshade and the sunroof assembly seals and glass attachment devices was solved, achieving full coverage of the sunshade and convenient maintenance of the glass device, thus improving the vehicle's interior environment and safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423125472.8
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-03-25
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-18
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-14
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-18
AI Technical Summary
Interference between the drive slide of the existing sunshade assembly and the seals and glass attachments of the vehicle sunroof assembly prevents the sunshade from fully covering the sunroof area, affecting passenger comfort and driver visibility. At the same time, the high profile of the guide rails hinders the repair and replacement of the glass attachments.
A sunshade assembly, including a support rod and a drive slide, has a height profile of less than 10 mm and is located entirely below the seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly to avoid interference with the seal. Furthermore, the guide rail is designed to be lower than the height of the glass attachment access area to ensure complete coverage of the sunshade assembly and convenient maintenance of the glass device.
It achieves full coverage of the sunshade, improving passenger comfort and driver visibility, while simplifying the maintenance process of the glass attachment device and reducing manufacturing and assembly complexity.
Smart Images
Figure CN223546136U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The subject matter described in this article generally relates to sunshade components, and more specifically to sunshade components having a height profile that facilitates complete coverage of the sunroof area of a vehicle by means of the sunshade. Background Technology
[0002] Vehicles may be equipped with sunroof assemblies. A sunroof assembly comprises a transparent panel formed on the roof of the vehicle. Sunroof assemblies and variations thereof allow sunlight to enter the vehicle, thus providing natural light to the occupants of the vehicle cabin. Sunroof assemblies also allow occupants to observe the vehicle's surroundings, particularly the sky and the environment above the vehicle.
[0003] In the example, the sunroof is fixed in the closed position. That is, the sunroof assembly can replace a portion of the vehicle's roof panel and is rigidly and statically attached to the vehicle's roof panel. In another example, the sunroof can be opened and closed. In one particular example, the sunroof can be opened about a pivot point or hinge. In another example, the sunroof can be fully opened, for example, by translating forward or backward relative to the vehicle in the longitudinal direction. Thus, when a button is pushed, an occupant can selectively open the sunroof to allow fresh, cool air to enter and / or to ventilate the cabin. When desired, such as when an occupant wants to leave the vehicle or in inclement weather, an occupant can selectively close the sunroof. In either case, the sunroof assembly may include a motor mechanism for opening and closing the sunroof based on user input (e.g., pushing a button) or based on any other criterion. In the example of a sliding sunroof, the sunroof assembly may include guide rails to move the sunroof between 1) an open or extended position and 2) a closed or retracted position. Utility Model Content
[0004] In one implementation, the example system relates to a way of improving the operation and function of a vehicle sunshade. Specifically, the example system provides a sunshade assembly that facilitates full coverage rather than partial coverage of the sunroof opening. Furthermore, the example sunshade assembly does not trigger the removal of material from the sunshade guide rails to allow access to sunroof attachment devices such as louver screws.
[0005] In one embodiment, a sunshade assembly is disclosed. The sunshade assembly includes a support rod spanning the width of a vehicle sunroof. The support rod includes: 1) a sunshade gripping portion for holding the edge of the sunshade; and 2) slots formed at both ends of the support rod. The sunshade assembly also includes a pair of drive slips for driving the support rod. The drive slips are positioned within cavities of the support rod and include compliant clamps for holding the drive slips within the slots. The support rod and drive slips have a height profile positioned below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly.
[0006] In one embodiment, a sunshade assembly is disclosed. The sunshade assembly includes a support rod spanning the width of a vehicle sunroof. The support rod includes: 1) a sunshade gripping portion for holding the leading edge of the sunshade; and 2) slots formed at both ends of the support rod. The sunshade assembly also includes a pair of drive slips for driving the support rod. The drive slips are positioned within cavities of the support rod and include compliant clamps for holding the drive slips within the slots. The support rod and drive slips 1) have a height profile of less than ten millimeters (mm), and 2) are positioned below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly.
[0007] In one embodiment, a sunshade assembly is disclosed. The sunshade assembly includes a support rod spanning the width of a vehicle sunroof. The support rod includes: 1) a sunshade gripping portion for holding the leading edge of a sunshade; and 2) slots formed at both ends of the support rod. The sunshade assembly also includes a pair of drive slides for driving the support rod. The drive slides are positioned within cavities of the support rod and include compliant clamps for holding the drive slides within the slots. The support rod and drive slides 1) have a height profile of less than ten mm, and 2) are positioned below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly. The sunshade assembly also includes guide rails on both sides of the support rod for supporting movement of the drive slides. The guide rails have a height profile positioned below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly. Attached Figure Description
[0008] The accompanying drawings, incorporated in and constituting a part of this specification, illustrate various systems, methods, and other embodiments of this disclosure. It will be understood that the element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) illustrated in the drawings represent one embodiment of a boundary. In some embodiments, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some embodiments, an element shown as an internal component of another element may be implemented as an external component, and vice versa. Furthermore, the elements may not be drawn to scale.
[0009] Figure 1 An example of a vehicle is illustrated, which includes a sunroof assembly with a sunshade component having a reduced height profile.
[0010] Figure 2A and Figure 2B The illustration shows an isometric view of the support rod and drive slide of a sunshade assembly with a reduced height profile.
[0011] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The illustration shows a partially cut-away three-dimensional cross-section of a sunroof assembly, which has a sunshade component with a reduced height profile installed therein.
[0012] Figure 4 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sunshade assembly with a reduced height profile.
[0013] Figure 5 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sunroof assembly including a sunshade component with a reduced height profile.
[0014] Figures 6A to 6F The illustration shows the installation of the drive sliding sheet in the support rod of a sunshade assembly with a reduced height profile. Detailed Implementation
[0015] This document discloses systems and other implementations associated with improving sunshade operation. As previously described, some vehicles include sunroofs, which consist of transparent panels in the roof of the vehicle. These transparent panels allow natural light into the cabin and provide occupants with additional visibility of the outside world. However, natural light can sometimes be distracting. For example, direct sunlight into the driver's eyes can make it difficult for the driver to see and focus on the road ahead, other drivers on the road, and other objects (both moving and static) near the vehicle. Reduced visibility increases the danger of operating the vehicle. Furthermore, direct sunlight glare on human-machine interfaces (HMIs), such as infotainment displays or other displays, can make the information presented thereon difficult to see. Bright, direct sunlight can also be a nuisance to vehicle occupants.
[0016] Therefore, the vehicle can be equipped with sunshades inside the cabin to reduce the amount of sunlight entering the vehicle. The sunshades can be retractable to 1) allow all sunlight to enter through the sunroof panel or 2) block at least a portion of the sunlight through the sunroof panel. When extended, the sunshade can completely block light passing through the sunroof panel, or partially block natural light so that some sunlight can still pass through the sunshade panel, albeit to a lesser extent. In either case, the sunshade allows the driver to block sunlight that would otherwise make it difficult for them to see their surroundings and / or the HMI.
[0017] Sunshade assemblies typically include a support spanning the width of the sunroof panel (in the lateral direction across the vehicle). A motor and guide rail system operate to retract or otherwise extend the sunshade relative to the sunroof in the longitudinal direction. As a specific example, when retracted, the sunshade may be rolled longitudinally behind the sunroof panel. When extended, the sunshade may extend along the length of the sunroof panel.
[0018] While sun visors enhance the driver experience and safety of motor vehicle operation, additional development can improve their operation and functionality. For example, guide rails defining the movement of the sun visor could be positioned below a seal surrounding the periphery of the sunroof assembly, preventing water or other debris from entering the vehicle through the sunroof assembly. However, if the drive slip (i.e., the mechanical device attached to the sun visor that imparts motion generated by the actuator to retract and extend the sun visor) is too high, the sun visor may not be able to slide below the seal. That is, the top surface of the sun visor may be higher than the bottom surface of the seal (in the vertical or z-direction), preventing the sun visor from extending across the entire length of the sunroof area (along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle). In other words, due to potential interference between the drive slip of the sun visor assembly and the seal between the vehicle body / sunroof glass, the sun visor may not be able to fully extend across the sunroof assembly. This could result in areas of the sunroof not being blocked by the sun visor. Therefore, even when the sun visor is fully extended, the sun strip may still be able to pass through the sun visor and potentially negatively impact occupant comfort, driver visibility, and display visibility.
[0019] Therefore, this sunshade assembly has a low height profile. Specifically, the sunshade assembly, including the support rod, drive slip, and sunshade fabric, is completely fitted below the sunroof seal, ensuring that the top edge of any part of the sunshade assembly (in the vertical or z-direction) does not interfere with the seal. Thus, the sunshade can block the entire area of the sunroof assembly. Specifically, this sunshade assembly includes a support rod / drive slip structure with a z-height profile, which allows the entire sunshade assembly (including the support rod and drive slip) to be positioned below the sunroof assembly's sealing system.
[0020] The sunshade assembly is also positioned below the glass attachment access area. That is, the sunroof panel (e.g., a glass pane) can be mounted to the sunroof assembly via attachment devices such as screws. These screws may be adjacent to the guide rail in the lateral direction (i.e., located on the outside of the guide rail along the vehicle width direction). In some cases, the guide rail may have an elevated profile to guide the movement of the sunshade drive slide. However, the elevated profile of the guide rail may obstruct access to the glass attachment device, which may be desired for repair and / or replacement of the glass panel. Therefore, in these cases, to provide access for the glass screws, a portion of the guide rail in the area surrounding the glass attachment device may be removed. This process can be complex, time-consuming, expensive, and may reduce the structural strength of the guide rail and / or other components of the sunroof assembly. The sunshade assembly of this specification includes a guide rail having a height profile below the glass attachment access area, as follows: Figure 5 As described in the text, this allows for the insertion of the glass attachment device without modifying the guide rail.
[0021] Specifically, the sunshade assembly includes a support rod that spans the width of the vehicle sunroof in a lateral direction relative to the vehicle. The support rod includes: 1) an attachment mechanism for the sunshade; and 2) slots formed at both ends of the support rod. That is, the support rod includes a first slot at a first end and a second slot at a second end. The support rod and the attached sunshade are translated via a pair of drive slides coupled to the support rod. Specifically, the drive slides are coupled to a motor that translates the slides within a guide rail. A portion of the drive slide located outside the guide rail is fitted into the support rod via corresponding support rod slots at both ends. The drive slides are positioned within cavities of the support rod and include compliant clamps for retaining the drive slides within the support rod. Thus, when an actuator moves the drive slides, the drive slides move the support rod and cause the sunshade coupled to the support rod to unwind or otherwise extend.
[0022] In the example, the height profile of the drive slide and support rod can be less than ten millimeters (mm) to be positioned below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly. In this way, the disclosed sunshade assembly exhibits improved efficiency by being able to block the entire area within the boundary of the sunroof assembly, rather than just a portion of it. Specifically, the smaller z-height sunshade assembly allows the support rod and drive slide to be positioned completely below the area where the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area are closed. Therefore, the sunshade can move back and forth beyond the longitudinal boundary of the sunroof panel, such as that defined by the seal surrounding the sunroof panel, without colliding with any part of the seal surrounding the sunroof panel. Furthermore, the reduced height of the guide rail and sunshade assembly does not trigger any milling processes on the guide rail or the closing sealing flange for access to the glass attachment.
[0023] Switch to the attached image. Figure 1 A portion of a perspective view of a vehicle 100 is illustrated, which includes a sunshade assembly 102 with a reduced height profile. It will be understood that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals have been repeated in different figures where appropriate to indicate corresponding elements or similar elements. Furthermore, numerous specific details are outlined in the discussion to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein can be practiced using various combinations of these elements. In any case, the vehicle 100 includes a sunshade assembly 102 that is implemented to improve sun protection coverage as well as driver / occupant comfort and visibility.
[0024] In this manual, the use of terms such as "forward," "forward," etc., and "rear," "backward," etc., refers to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. "Forward," "forward," etc., refers to the front (front) of the vehicle, while "rear," "backward," etc., refers to the rear (back) of the vehicle. The use of terms such as "side," "side," "lateral," etc., refers to the lateral direction of the vehicle. The use of terms such as "above," "below," etc., refers to the vertical direction of the vehicle.
[0025] Vehicle 100 includes exterior components and multiple interior compartments. Compartments include, for example, passenger compartments, engine compartments, cargo areas, etc. Vehicle 100 includes a body that forms the exterior components and defines or otherwise encloses the compartments. In one arrangement, the body includes sides, roof, floor, front end, rear end, etc. The body may be constructed from a combination of rigidly interconnected frame members, panels and other body elements, as well as upper cladding, trim, interior trim and other body coverings. In some instances, body elements have combinations of manufactured, bent, stamped, extruded, cast, molded and similar constructions, and are made from combinations of metals, polymers and similar materials.
[0026] The roof extends laterally between the sides of the vehicle 100. As described above, the vehicle 100 may include a sunroof assembly 110. As described above, the sunroof assembly 110 may include a fixed or retractable sunroof panel 101. Figure 1 In the example depicted, the sunroof panel 101 is retractable and is shown in the retracted position for clarity in illustrating other components. In other examples, the sunroof panel 101 may be permanently closed but transparent. In any example, a sunshade assembly 102 may be positioned below the sunroof panel 101. That is, the sunshade assembly 102 may be located on the interior of the vehicle 100 as defined by the sunroof panel 101.
[0027] The sunroof assembly 110 can be mounted in and attached to the roof of the vehicle 100. That is, the vehicle body may include one or more components for supporting the roof panel, sunroof assembly 110, and sunshade assembly 102. For example, the body may include roof longitudinal beams, a roof lintel, and a frame surrounding the sunroof panel 101. In one arrangement, the roof longitudinal beams are laterally spaced from each other around the sunroof panel 101 and extend longitudinally downward from the vehicle 100 in a longitudinal direction 114. The roof panel may extend longitudinally from the roof lintel and laterally between the roof longitudinal beams.
[0028] Typically, sunroof assembly 110 includes sunroof panel 101 and associated components for opening and closing sunroof panel 101. As used herein, the term "sunroof panel" includes similar roof openings for vehicle 100, including sunroofs, panoramic roofs, etc. As described above, sunroof panel 101 allows sunlight and / or air to enter the cabin of vehicle 100 and allows occupants of vehicle 100 to observe their surroundings. Therefore, sunroof panel 101 can be made of materials that 1) enclose the cabin and 2) allow occupants of vehicle 100 to see outside vehicle 100 when sunroof panel 101 is closed. In one example, sunroof panel 101 is made of glass, but it should be understood that sunroof panel 101 can be made of one or more other materials.
[0029] In one arrangement, the sunroof assembly 110 includes a housing that accommodates various components of the sunroof assembly 110, including those that attach the sunroof panel 101 to the vehicle 100. The housing may be attached to the roof visor and / or other components of the vehicle 100.
[0030] As described above, vehicle 100 may also include a sunshade assembly 102, which includes a sunshade element 112 and various other components for moving the sunshade element 112 and attaching the sunshade element 112 to vehicle 100. Typically, the sunshade element 112 is formed of a flexible light-blocking material such as fabric. The sunshade element 112 may completely or partially block sunlight. For example, the sunshade element 112 may be made of an opaque material that completely blocks sunlight when stretched. In another example, the sunshade element 112 may partially block sunlight, allowing a portion of the sunlight to still pass through the sunshade element 112 to at least partially penetrate into the cabin.
[0031] In the example, the sunshade 112 is retractable, allowing it to be selectively moved to a position below the sunroof panel 101. In a particular example, the sunshade 112, when retracted, is rolled up in a storage compartment behind and / or below the sunroof assembly 110. Figure 1 In the example depicted, the sunshade 112 extends while the skylight panel 101 retracts.
[0032] As described above, the sunshade assembly 102 includes additional components to facilitate the storage, movement, and attachment of the sunshade 112 to the vehicle 100. Specifically, the sunshade assembly 102 includes additional components, such as a support rod and a drive slide, as depicted in FIG2. As described below, the drive slide and support rod support the movement of the sunshade 112 from a retracted position to an extended position, whether motorized or manual.
[0033] A pair of guide rails 116 are positioned at the lateral edge of the sunroof opening 108 and are used to guide the sunshade 112 as it moves back and forth longitudinally along the sunroof panel 101 in the longitudinal direction 114. Figure 1 A guide rail 116 is depicted, while a second guide rail is obscured by the sunroof assembly 110. The drive slide of the sunshade assembly 102 (depicted in Figure 2) is seated within the corresponding guide rail 116 and is actuated by an actuator or manual user input to open and close the sunshade 112. In this example, the actuator includes a motor coupled to a cable. The cable is coupled to the corresponding drive slide within the corresponding guide rail 116. Thus, in one mode, the motor pulls the cable in, which can retract or extend the sunshade 112 based on the motor's positioning relative to the sunshade 112. In another mode, the motor extends the cable, which can retract or extend the sunshade 112 based on the motor's positioning relative to the sunshade 112. In yet another mode, the sunshade assembly 102 can be manual, wherein an occupant of the vehicle 100 manually opens or closes the sunshade 112, for example, via a handle clamp of the sunshade assembly 102. In either case, the drive slides within the guide rail 116 to guide the sunshade 112 between the retracted and extended states.
[0034] Figure 2A and Figure 2B The illustration shows an isometric view of a sunshade assembly 102 with a reduced height profile. Specifically, Figure 2A An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the end of support rod 218, which has a drive slide 220-1 mounted therein, is depicted. Figure 2B The entire support rod 218 is depicted, having drive slips 220-1 and 220-2 mounted at each end. In the example, the sunshade assembly 102 is a component of the sunroof assembly 110. For example, the sunroof assembly 110, including the sunshade assembly 102, can be installed as a single component within the vehicle 100. Typically, the sunshade assembly 102 includes: 1) a support rod 218 spanning the width of the vehicle sunroof; and 2) a pair of drive slips 220-1 and 220-2 that drive the support rod 218.
[0035] Support rod 218 extends between the lateral sides of sunroof assembly 110, and more specifically, between guide rails 116. Support rod 218 supports the weight of sunshade 112 and pulls sunshade 112 between extended and retracted positions. Specifically, support rod 218 may be formed of a rigid material (such as extruded aluminum, another form of metal, or any other material) and may grip the leading edge of sunshade 112 to pull sunshade 112 forward or backward to extend or retract it. Therefore, support rod 218 includes a sunshade grip 224 that holds the leading edge of sunshade 112. In an example, sunshade grip 224 may be a slot receiving the annular end of sunshade 112, as follows: Figure 4 As depicted in the figure. In the example, a rigid rod may be positioned in the annular end of the sunshade 112 to help rigidly attach the sunshade 112 to the support rod 218. When the sunshade 112 is engaged with the support rod 218, the support rod 218 causes the sunshade 112 to extend or retract via the movement of the actuator and the drive slide 220. Although Figure 2 depicts a particular type of sunshade gripper, the support rod 218 may include other types of sunshade grippers.
[0036] Figure 2A The diagram illustrates a support rod 218 having slots 222 formed at both ends. For example... Figure 4 As depicted, slots 222 are used to receive and retain corresponding drive slides 220. Specifically, a first slot 222-1 may be formed at a first end of the support rod 218 to receive a first drive slide 220-1, while a second slot 222-2 may be formed at a second end of the support rod 218 to receive a second drive slide 220-2. In addition to these slots 222, the support rod 218 may have a closed profile. That is, the support rod 218 may have a continuous cross-sectional profile. Doing so can increase the rigidity of the support rod 218. If the support rod 218 is not a closed profile, the support rod 218 may deflect or otherwise deform under the forces present when the sunshade 112 is extended, particularly at locations away from the attachment point of the support rod 218 to the guide rail 116 (such as the center of the support rod 218). In the example, slots 222-1 and 222-2 are formed on the vertical surface of the support rod 218, such that the drive sliding pads 220-1 and 220-2 slide into the slot 222 through the vertical surface of the support rod 218, as follows: Figures 6A to 6F As depicted in the text.
[0037] The sunshade assembly 102 also includes a pair of drive slides 220-1 and 220-2 that drive the support rod 218. Driven by the support rod 218, the drive slides 220-1 and 220-2 drive the sunshade 112, which is coupled to the support rod 218. As described above, each drive slide 220-1 and 220-2 includes a portion 227 residing in the guide rail 116. In an example where the sunshade 112 is motor-operated, this portion 227 of the drive slide 220 can be coupled to an actuator. Even when not motor-operated, i.e., when manually operated, the drive slide 220 moves back and forth within the guide rail 116 in the longitudinal direction 114 of the vehicle 100 to extend and retract the sunshade 112. Figure 2A , Figure 3B and Figure 3A As depicted, the body of the drive slide 220 is positioned within the cavity of the support rod 218. In this way, since the drive slide 220 and the support rod 218 occupy the same vertical space, the height profile of the sunshade assembly 102 is reduced.
[0038] The drive slide 220 includes various components that facilitate a low z-height profile connection between the drive slide 220 and the support rod 218. Specifically, the drive slide 220 includes a compliant clamp 226 that holds the drive slide 220 within a slot 222. During installation, such as Figures 6A to 6F As depicted, the compliant clamp 226 deflects to allow the body of the drive slide 220 to be inserted into the cavity of the support rod 218. When the drive slide 220 is seated within the cavity of the support rod 218, the compliant clamp 226 rests against the surface of the slot 222 to prevent movement of the drive slide 220 relative to the support rod 218 in the longitudinal direction 114, as shown. Figure 4 As depicted in the text.
[0039] The drive slide 220 includes a base surface that can be divided into side portions 228-1 and 228-2. In one example, a compliant clamp 226 is positioned between side portions 228-1 and 228-2. A rib 230 extends vertically from the base surface. When the drive slide 220 is seated in the cavity of the support rod 218, the rib 230 engages with the leading edge surface of the slot 222 to hold the drive slide 220 in place. In this example, the compliant clamp 226 is attached to the rib 230 and extends vertically away from the rib 230 toward the rear surface of the slot 222. The following... Figure 4 The diagram depicts the engagement between the drive slide 220 and the support rod 218 to provide a rigid connection. The drive slide 220 can be formed from various materials, including injection-molded resin or any other material.
[0040] Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe illustration shows a partially cut-away perspective cross-sectional view of a sunroof assembly 110, which includes a sunshade 112 with a reduced height profile installed therein. Specifically, Figure 3B The sunshade component 102 is depicted in Figure 1 An enlarged view of the area depicted in the dashed box 103, and Figure 3A A view depicting the area, or even a further magnified view.
[0041] As described above, in this example, the sunshade assembly 102 is part of the sunroof assembly 110, which is mounted as a single component to the roof of the vehicle 100. The sunroof assembly 110 includes multiple additional components, such as the sunroof panel 101, mounting components, and other features that contribute to user comfort and operation of the sunroof panel 101. For example, the sunroof assembly 110 may include a front housing 340 on which multiple components of the sunroof assembly 110 may be mounted. Examples of such components include a weatherstripping 336, a wind deflector 334 (in the closed position), and a sunroof seal 332.
[0042] The sunroof seal 332 is compressed between the sunroof panel 101 and the front housing 340 to provide a barrier between the external environment and the vehicle cabin. The sunroof seal 332 may be formed from an elastically deformable material such as rubber and may be shaped to a closed profile. The sunroof panel 101 sits on top of the sunroof seal 332 and compresses the sunroof seal 332 to form an airtight and watertight sealing interface with the vehicle 100 to prevent water and debris from entering the vehicle 100. As mentioned above, a drive slide with an excessively high profile may interfere with the sunroof seal 332, and interference with the sunroof seal 332 may prevent the sunroof opening 108 from being completely covered by the sunshade 112.
[0043] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Features of the sunshade assembly 102 are also depicted, such as a guide rail in the guide rail 116, a drive slide in the drive slide 220, and a support rod 218. As described above, the drive slide 220 includes a portion 227 located within a groove in the guide rail 116 and movable within the guide rail 116 by an actuator or manual intervention. The drive slide 220 also includes a body fitted within the support rod 218, which has a sunshade gripping portion 224 and is movable in the longitudinal direction 114 to cover / not cover the skylight opening 108, the sunshade gripping portion 224 holding the leading edge of the sunshade 112.
[0044] The sunshade assembly 102 has a z-height profile that allows it to be positioned completely below the sunroof seal 332. If the sunshade assembly 102 is too high (i.e., overlapping the sunroof seal 332 in the z-direction 342), the sunshade 112 may not be able to fully cover the area surrounded by the sunroof opening. For example, if the top surface of the drive slide 220 is at a higher z-height than the bottom surface of the sunroof seal 332, the drive slide 220 may impact the corner or end portions of the sunroof seal 332 before passing the longitudinal boundary of the sunroof panel 101. This can result in a gap between the longitudinal boundary of the sunroof panel 101 and the sunshade 112. Sunlight may be able to pass through this gap unobstructed, which, as described above, can negatively impact occupant comfort and / or driver visibility.
[0045] Therefore, the shading assembly 102, and more specifically the drive slide 220 and support rod 218, have a short height profile, for example, less than 10 mm (e.g., Figure 4 (as depicted in the text), allowing the sunshade assembly 102 to pass completely beneath the sunroof seal 332 (as shown in the text). Figure 5 (As depicted in the illustration). In other words, the sunshade assembly 102 has a height profile in the z-direction 342 that does not overlap with the height profile of the sunroof seal 332, allowing the sunshade 112 to move back and forth along a path greater than the entire length of the sunroof assembly 110 (below the sunroof seal 332). By extending below the entire length of the sunroof panel 101, the sunshade 112 can cover the entire sunroof panel 101 when fully extended.
[0046] Figure 4 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sunshade assembly 102 with a reduced height profile. Specifically, Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 2. Figure 4 A support rod 218 is depicted having a drive slide 220 seated in a slot 222.
[0047] As described above, the support rod 218 includes a sunshade gripping portion 224 that holds the leading edge of the sunshade 112. In this example, the leading edge of the sunshade 112 may include a folded portion fitted within the sunshade gripping portion 224. The folded portion may have a thickness greater than the opening of the sunshade gripping portion 224, thereby preventing the folded portion from separating from the support rod 218. Figure 4 As depicted, in some examples, the sunshade gripper 224 runs along the front edge of the support rod 218, wherein the sunshade 112 covers the front and lower portions of the support rod 218. While a particular type of sunshade gripper 224 is specifically referred to, the support rod 218 may include different types of sunshade grippers 224 that retain and support the movement of the sunshade 112.
[0048] Figure 4 The height of the sunshade assembly 102 in the z-direction 342 is also clearly depicted. As mentioned above, if the sunshade assembly 102 is high, the top edges of the support rod 218 and / or the drive slide 220 may collide with the bottom edges of the front / corner portion of the sunroof seal 332. This collision prevents the sunshade 112 from completely covering the area of the sunroof panel 101. Therefore, by placing the drive slide 220 within the cavity of the support rod 218, the height of the sunshade assembly 102 in the z-direction 342 can be kept low. For example, the height profiles of the support rod 218 and the drive slide 220 can be less than ten millimeters (mm) and greater than 7 mm. As a specific example, the height profiles of the support rod 218 and the drive slide 220 can be 7.5 mm. The height of the support rod 218, the drive slide 220, and the fabric of the sunshade 112 wrapped around the support rod 218 and the drive slide 220 in the z-direction 342 can also be less than 10 mm, for example, 8.2 mm. The low-profile sunshade assembly 102 rests below the sunroof seal 332 and does not overlap with the sunroof seal 332 in the z-direction, as... Figure 5 As depicted in the text.
[0049] Figure 4 The relative lengths of the components of the drive slide 220 and the support rod 218 in the longitudinal direction 114 are also depicted. As described above, the drive slide 220 may include: 1) a base surface formed by side portions 228-1 and 228-2; 2) a rib 230 extending vertically from the base surface; and 3) a compliant clamp 226 extending parallel to the base surface and perpendicularly away from the rib 230 toward the rear edge of the slot 222. In the example, the base surface may be longer than the slot 222 in the longitudinal direction. That is, the length 446 of the base surface is greater than the length 444 of the slot 222. In the example, the length 444 of the slot 222 may be between 16 mm and 19 mm. For example, the length 444 of the slot 222 may be 17.7 mm. Therefore, as Figures 6A to 6F As depicted, the drive slide 220 does not move vertically into the slot 222 during installation, but rather rotates into the slot 222.
[0050] Figure 4 A compliant clamp 226 is also depicted, which, as described above, 1) deflects to allow the drive slide 220 to insert into the support rod 218; and 2) stabilizes the drive slide 220 in the longitudinal direction 114 within the slot 222 when the drive slide 220 is fully seated. In the example, the compliant clamp 226 can deflect between 1.5 mm and 3 mm. For example, the compliant clamp can deflect 2.1 mm. That is, as... Figures 6A to 6FAs depicted, the compliant clamp 226 is raised from the side portions 228-1 and 228-2 of the base of the drive slide 220. During installation, a technician or other individual presses the compliant clamp 226 from the non-deflected position (indicated by solid lines) to the deflected position (indicated by dashed lines), such that the compliant clamp 226 fits into the cavity of the support rod 218, as shown. Figure 4 As depicted in the diagram. The user can then rotate the drive slide 220 to position it within the cavity of the support rod 218, as shown. Figures 6A to 6F As depicted in the diagram. When seated, rib 230 and compliant clamp 226 together prevent the drive slide 220 from moving relative to the support rod 218 in the longitudinal direction 114. That is, the compliant clamp 226 deflects below the rear surface of the slot 222 within the cavity of the support rod 218 during installation and rests against the rear surface of the slot 222 when seated in the support rod 218. Specifically, rib 230 engages with the leading edge of the slot 222, while the rear surface of the compliant clamp 226 engages with the trailing edge of the slot 222. In this way, longitudinal translation of the drive slide 220 within the support rod 218 is prevented.
[0051] Figure 5 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sunroof assembly 110 including a sunshade assembly 102 with a reduced height profile. Specifically, Figure 5 Depicting along Figure 3B The cross-sectional view of the vehicle sunroof assembly 110 taken from line 5-5 in the figure. Figure 5 Various components of the sunroof assembly 110 are depicted, such as the weatherstripping 336, the wind deflector 334, and the sunroof seal 332. Figure 5 A glass frame 538 is also depicted, to which the sunroof panel 101 is attached. Specifically, the glass frame 538 is connected to a bracket 539 of the sunroof assembly 110, which is rigidly connected to the frame of the sunroof assembly 110.
[0052] As described above, the drive slide 220 includes a portion 227 that rests in and slides within a recess in the guide rail 116. If the guide rail 116 is too high, or if the sunshade assembly 102 is too high, either element may interfere with access to the glass attachments 548, such as glass screws. That is, at some point, it may be desirable to repair and / or replace the sunroof panel 101. The sunroof panel 101 can be held in place by a plurality of glass attachments 548 between the glass frame 538 and the bracket 539. To remove the sunroof panel 101, a technician removes the glass attachments 548 using a tool such as a screwdriver. While the sunroof seal 332 can be pressed down to provide access to the glass attachments 548, the drive slide 220, support rod 218, and guide rail 116, being formed of rigid materials, may not be movable to provide access to the glass attachments 548. Therefore, the guide rail 116 and sunshade assembly 102 with excessively high profiles may obstruct access to the glass attachment device 548 by means of tools such as screwdrivers.
[0053] In some cases where the profile of the guide rail 116 is too high, partial material of the guide rail 116 may be removed during the manufacture of the sunroof assembly 110 to facilitate the insertion of the glass attachment device 548. That is, at least a portion of the vertical wall of the guide rail 116 may be removed. This increases the complexity and cost of manufacturing and assembling the sunroof assembly 110. Furthermore, material removal may compromise the structural integrity of the guide rail 116.
[0054] Therefore, the sunshade assembly 102 in this specification has a height of less than 10 mm. This facilitates the installation of the sunshade assembly 102 relative to the glass attachment device 548 so as not to obstruct access to the glass attachment device 548, such as... Figure 5 As depicted in the description. Specifically, the sunshade assembly 102 can be installed within the sunroof assembly 110 such that there is a gap 541 of at least 8.0 mm between the glass attachment access area and the support rod 218. For example, the gap 541 can be 10.6 mm.
[0055] As described above, the sunshade assembly 102 is also installed below the sunroof seal 332. Specifically, the sunshade assembly 102 can be installed within the sunroof assembly 110 such that there is a gap 543 of at least 2.0 mm between the bottom surface of the sunroof seal 332 and the portion of the drive slide 220 located outside the guide rail 116. For example, the gap 543 can be 2.6 mm.
[0056] Furthermore, the guide rail 116, which can be positioned on both sides of the support rod 218 as described above to support the movement of the drive slide 220, can itself have a height profile also provided below the sunroof seal 332 and the glass attachment device access area of the sunroof assembly 110. This facilitates the installation of the guide rail 116 relative to the glass attachment device 548 so as not to obstruct access to the glass attachment device 548, such as... Figure 5 As depicted in the description. This also avoids the complex, expensive, and strength-reducing removal of the guide rail 116 material. Specifically, the guide rail 116 can be installed within the sunroof assembly 110 such that there is a gap 545 of at least 2.0 mm between the guide rail 116 and the glass attachment device 548. For example, the gap 545 can be 2.8 mm.
[0057] Figures 6A to 6F The illustration shows the installation of the drive slide 220 in the support rod 218 of the sunshade assembly 102. As described above, the base section of the drive slide 220 is longer than the slot 222, so that the drive slide 220 will not translate through the slot 222 to fit into the cavity of the support rod 218. Therefore, as Figure 6A As depicted, the support rod 218 is angled relative to the drive slide 220, which is positioned in the guide rail 116. In this position, when the support rod 218 is translated as indicated by the first arrow 650, the rear edge of the base section of the drive slide 220 can enter the rear section of the cavity of the support rod 218.
[0058] like Figure 6B As depicted, if the compliant clamp 226 does not deflect, it can prevent the drive slide 220 from being fully inserted into the cavity of the support rod 218. Therefore, as Figure 6B As depicted, a technician or other user can press the compliant clamp 226 in the direction of the second arrow 652 so that the compliant clamp 226 can be fitted into the cavity of the support rod 218.
[0059] like Figure 6C As depicted, the support rod 218 translates further in the direction indicated by the first arrow 650. However, in Figure 6C In this configuration, the compliant clamp 226 deflects downwards such that a portion of the drive slide 220 can be inserted into the cavity of the support rod 218. The support rod 218 translates until a gap exists between the leading edge of the drive slide 220 and the leading edge of the slot 222, as... Figure 6C As depicted in the text.
[0060] Once the leading edge of the drive sliding plate 220 leaves the leading edge of the groove 222, the support rod 218 can then... Figure 6DAs depicted, it rotates via the third arrow 654 until the base section of the drive slide 220 is located within the cavity of the support rod, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6E As depicted in the diagram. In this arrangement, the entire base section of the driving slide 220 is located within the cavity of the support rod 218.
[0061] like Figure 6F As depicted, the support rod 218 translates longitudinally backward as indicated by the fourth arrow 656 until the compliant clamp 226 springs back freely. Figure 6F Until the state described in the text. Figure 6F As depicted, the distance from the leading edge of the rib 230 to the trailing edge of the compliant clamp 226 can be matched with the length of the slot 222, such that the junction of the leading edge of the rib / slot and the junction of the trailing edge of the compliant clamp / slot will drive the sliding tile 220 to remain in place in the longitudinal direction 114.
[0062] The arrangement described herein offers the following benefits: it provides a sunshade assembly 102 with a low height profile to fit completely beneath the sunroof seal 332 of the sunroof assembly 110, and provides sufficient access to the glass attachment device 548 of the sunroof assembly 110. By providing access to the glass attachment device 548 without the need for guide rail milling, the sunshade assembly 102 described herein improves the efficiency and effectiveness of manufacturing the sunroof assembly 110, thereby improving the packaging of the sunroof assembly 110 and reducing its overall cost.
[0063] Detailed implementations are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed implementations are intended only as examples. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the aspects herein differently with virtually any suitable detailed structure. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to provide an understandable description of possible implementations. Figures 1 to 6F Various implementations are shown, but these implementations are not limited to the structures or applications illustrated.
[0064] As used herein, the terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more. As used herein, the term “multiple” is defined as two or more. As used herein, the term “another” is defined as at least a second or more. As used herein, the terms “comprising” and / or “having” are defined as including (i.e., open-ended terms). As used herein, the phrase “at least one of… and…” indicates and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes only A, only B, only C, or any combination thereof (e.g., AB, AC, BC, or ABC).
[0065] In this specification, in one arrangement, the vehicle's compartments include a passenger compartment, an engine compartment, a cargo area, etc. Among other things, in one arrangement, the vehicle includes seats, an instrument panel assembly, an instrument panel, controllers, etc., housed in the passenger compartment. Additionally, in some instances, the vehicle may include an engine, a motor, a transmission, etc., as well as other powertrain components, such as wheels, housed in the engine compartment and other locations within the vehicle. The wheels support the rest of the vehicle on the ground. One, some, or all of the wheels are powered by the rest of the powertrain components to propel the vehicle along the ground.
[0066] Various aspects described herein may be implemented in other forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes of this invention. Therefore, in indicating the scope of this invention, reference should be made to the appended claims rather than to the foregoing description.
Claims
1. A sunshade assembly (102), characterized in that, The sunshade assembly (102) includes: A support rod (218) spanning the width of the vehicle sunroof, the support rod comprising: A sunshade gripping portion (224) for holding the edge of the sunshade (112); and A slot (222) is formed at both ends of the support rod (218); and A pair of drive sliding plates (220) for driving the support rod (218), the drive sliding plates (220): Positioned within the cavity of the support rod (218); and Includes a compliant clamp (226) for holding the drive slide (220) within the slot (222), the support rod (218) and the drive slide (220) having a height profile disposed below the sunroof seal (332) and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly (110).
2. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height profile of the support rod (218) and the drive slide (220) is less than ten millimeters.
3. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support rod (218) moves back and forth along the longitudinal direction of the sunroof assembly (110) along a path longer than the length of the sunroof assembly (110).
4. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the sunshade (112) is fully extended, the support rod (218) is located in the longitudinal direction in front of the sunroof opening of the sunroof assembly (110).
5. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving sliding pad (220) also includes: Base surface; and A rib (230) extends vertically from the base surface and, when the drive slide is seated within the cavity of the support rod, engages with the leading edge surface of the slot to hold the drive slide in place; and The compliant clamp (226) is attached to the rib (230) and extends vertically away from the rib (230) toward the rear surface of the slot (222).
6. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 5, characterized in that: The compliant clamp (226) is positioned between the side portions of the base surface; and The compliant clamp rises from the side portion.
7. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The compliant clamp (226): During installation, it deflects below the rear surface of the slot (222) within the cavity of the support rod (218); and When seated within the cavity of the support rod (218), it rests against the rear surface of the slot (222).
8. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 5, characterized in that: The base surface of the driving slide (220) is longer in the longitudinal direction than the slot (222) of the support rod (218); and During installation, the drive slide (220) rotates into position within the slot (222).
9. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gap between the glass attachment device access area and the support rod (218) is at least 8.0 mm.
10. A sunshade assembly (102), characterized in that, The sunshade assembly (102) includes: A support rod (218) spanning the width of the vehicle sunroof, the support rod (218) comprising: A sunshade gripping portion (224) for holding the leading edge of the sunshade (112); and A slot (222) is formed at both ends of the support rod (218); and A pair of drive sliding plates (220) for driving the support rod (218), the drive sliding plates (220): Positioned within the cavity of the support rod (218); and Includes a compliant clamp (226) for holding the drive slide (220) within the slot (222), the support rod (218), and the drive slide (220): It has a height profile of less than ten millimeters; and It is located below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly (110).
11. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The height profile of the support rod (218) and the drive slide (220) is greater than seven millimeters.
12. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The support rod (218): The sunroof assembly (110) moves back and forth along a path longer than the sunroof assembly (110) in the longitudinal direction; and When the sunshade (112) is fully extended, it is located in front of the sunroof opening of the sunroof assembly (110) in the longitudinal direction.
13. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 11, characterized in that: The driving sliding pad (220) also includes: Base surface; and A rib (230) extending vertically from the base surface engages with the leading edge surface of the slot (222) when the drive slide (220) is seated in the cavity of the support rod (218) to hold the drive slide (220) in place; and The compliant clamp (226) is attached to the rib (230) and extends vertically away from the rib (230) toward the rear surface of the slot (222).
14. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The compliant clamp (226): During installation, it deflects below the rear surface of the slot (222) within the cavity of the support rod (218); and When seated in the cavity of the support rod (218), it rests against the rear surface of the slot (222).
15. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 13, characterized in that: The base surface of the driving slide (220) is longer in the longitudinal direction than the slot (222) of the support rod (218); and During installation, the drive slide (220) rotates into position within the slot (222).
16. A sunshade assembly (102), characterized in that, The sunshade assembly (102) includes: A support rod (218) spanning the width of the vehicle sunroof, the support rod (218) comprising: A sunshade gripping portion (224) for holding the leading edge of the sunshade (112); and A slot (222) is formed at both ends of the support rod (218); A pair of drive sliding plates (220) for driving the support rod (218), the drive sliding plates (220): Positioned within the cavity of the support rod (218); and Includes a compliant clamp (226) for holding the drive slide (220) within the slot (222), the support rod (218), and the drive slide (220): It has a height profile of less than ten millimeters; and Located below the sunroof seal and glass attachment access area of the sunroof assembly (110); and Guide rails (116) on both sides of the support rod (218) are used to support the movement of the drive slide (220), and the height profile of the guide rails is set below the sunroof seal and the glass attachment device access area of the sunroof assembly (110).
17. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 16, characterized in that: The driving sliding pad (220) also includes: Base surface; and A rib (230) extending vertically from the base surface engages with the leading edge surface of the slot (222) when the drive slide (220) is seated in the cavity of the support rod (218) to hold the drive slide (220) in place; and The compliant clamp (226) is attached to the rib and extends vertically away from the rib toward the rear surface of the slot.
18. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The compliant clamp (226): During installation, it deflects below the rear surface of the slot (222) within the cavity of the support rod (218); and When seated in the cavity of the support rod (218), it rests against the rear surface of the slot (222).
19. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 17, characterized in that: The base surface of the driving slide (220) is longer in the longitudinal direction than the slot (222) of the support rod (218); and During installation, the drive slide (220) rotates into position within the slot (222).
20. The sunshade assembly (102) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The drive slide (220) also includes a portion (227) for sliding within the guide rail (116).