Windshield awning collector for motor vehicle
A vertically movable transverse barrier in the cowl collector addresses water intrusion issues in motor vehicle air conditioning systems, enhancing water blocking and air suction efficiency, thus protecting the system and reducing energy consumption.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2024000424
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-01-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-18
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-01-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing motor vehicle air conditioning systems face issues with water intrusion during heavy rain, leading to filter humidification, unpleasant conditions, and potential electrical system malfunctions due to the inability to effectively block runoff water from entering the cowl grille.
A transverse barrier in the cowl collector is vertically movable to control water flow, preventing entry into the cowl grille and optimizing air suction, using a fabric or membrane with a hydrophobic coating and stiffening frame, actuated by a sensor when rain exceeds a certain intensity.
The solution effectively blocks water entry, reduces energy consumption, and protects the air treatment system by minimizing humidity and pressure losses, ensuring comfortable vehicle conditions and system reliability.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Windshield awning collector for a motor vehicle
[0001] The invention relates to the collection and evacuation of runoff water from a motor vehicle windshield. The invention relates to a motor vehicle cowl collector. The subject of the invention is an assembly with a cowl collector and a cowl grille. The subject of the invention is also a motor vehicle.
[0002] In order to improve the comfort of the occupants, a motor vehicle is equipped with an air conditioning system. The conditioning system generally comprises a fan sucking air from the environment, and a heat pump heating this air before injecting it into the passenger compartment via different ventilation outlets. This configuration makes it possible to control the temperature while limiting the consumption of primary energy. In parallel with heating the air, the conditioning system is optionally capable of dehumidifying the incoming air. The conditioning system is generally designated by the acronym "HVAC" which corresponds to the English expression "heating ventilation and air conditioning".
[0003] When a vehicle is exposed to tropical rain exceeding an intensity of 20 mm / h, whether in motion or stationary, the path of water on the vehicle creates a particular problem. The water falling on the windshield flows mainly forward, in particular through the windshield pillar, and then passes through the cowl grille. Part of this water is directed outwards by seals designed to direct the flow towards the wheel arch, while the rest is routed towards the cowl collector. In the event of heavy rain, the water can overflow, passing through the cowl grille, and then these drops position themselves in front of the inlet of the treatment system.
[0004] When the driver activates the heating of the treatment system, a problematic situation arises. The treatment system creates a vacuum at the awning collector by drawing in fresh air from outside. This air, however, carries with it a significant amount of water droplets. This phenomenon is accentuated when the heating is activated during rain, resulting in significant humidification of the inlet filter.
[0005] The major challenge lies in the fact that this excessive humidification of the filter leads to adverse consequences. Not only does it make the air inside the vehicle unpleasant for the occupants, but it also poses a substantial risk to the electrical mechanism of the treatment system. The presence of an im Water carrying capacity in the system can lead to serious malfunctions or even total failure.
[0006] Document US10017131B2 discloses a panel arrangement for a motor vehicle. The arrangement comprises an air inlet panel for ambient airflow, and a service panel comprising a water collection region disposed beneath the airflow region. The water collection area is designed to discharge water in the transverse direction of the vehicle, particularly towards a wheel arch of the motor vehicle. However, the ability to block parasitic rain flows remains limited. Moisture may still enter the treatment system.
[0007] Document US10011305B2 discloses a motor vehicle having a windshield, a hood, and an air and water guide device. The guide device extends from the base of the windshield under the hood. A base plate of the air and water guide device includes at least one longitudinal air passage opening under the hood. A transverse wall, in which air passages are provided, rises from the base plate along a rear edge of the hood. This arrangement limits water suction in the event of rain. However, its effectiveness remains limited in the event of sustained rain and a high intake air flow rate. Furthermore, the size of the longitudinal passage generates a significant pressure drop, which penalizes the energy consumption required to achieve a given flow rate.
[0008] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to limit the risk of water flowing from a cowl collector to a cowl grille of a motor vehicle. The invention also aims to optimize the blocking of runoff water, compactness, and pressure losses in an assembly including a cowl collector and a cowl grille of a motor vehicle.
[0009] According to a first aspect, the invention provides an assembly for a motor vehicle; the assembly comprising: a cowl grille; a cowl collector which comprises: a rear edge intended to run along a windshield; a transverse channel arranged longitudinally between the rear edge and the cowl grille, the transverse channel comprising a bottom, a front edge, and being configured to collect rainwater flowing over the windshield; remarkable in that the transverse channel comprises a transverse barrier which is vertically movable; the cowl collector comprising an actuator configured to move the transverse barrier between a lower position below the front edge and an upper position above the front edge in order to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel towards the cowl grille.
[0010] It will be clearly understood that the invention proposes a transverse barrier deployable in the transverse channel in order to control the flow of water, and thus to protect the awning grille.
[0011] The transverse barrier prevents water from entering when it is raised, and promotes air suction through the grille when it is in the lower position. Thus, it preserves the associated air treatment system. It reduces the energy required for suction and heating; just as it prevents the degradation of the filters linked to humidity.
[0012] Document EP2212137B1 presents a method for controlling an air conditioning installation in a vehicle in order to reduce the entry of humidity into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. For this, a measurement of the quantity of water present at the fresh air intake opening is determined as a function of the signal from a sensor. The air conditioning installation is controlled, as a function of the determined measurement of the quantity of water present at the fresh air intake opening. However, the method does not provide any solution applicable to a cowl collector.
[0013] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises fabric, preferably a non-woven fabric.
[0014] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises polytetrafluoroethylene; preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a hydrophobic coating.
[0015] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a stiffening frame.
[0016] Preferably, the transverse channel comprises a transverse slot with sealing gaskets configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the transverse barrier.
[0017] Preferably, the transverse channel comprises a front partition forming the front edge, a rear partition forming the rear edge; the transverse barrier being arranged in the rear partition; preferably the rear partition extends from the bottom.
[0018] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a curved profile; and / or the transverse channel comprises a discharge section transversely at a distance from the transverse barrier.
[0019] Preferably, the transverse channel comprises a transverse width, the transverse barrier extending over 10% to 40% of the transverse width; preferably over 15% to 30% of the transverse width.
[0020] Preferably, the transverse channel comprises a wiper orifice, the transverse barrier being transversely spaced from said wiper orifice.
[0021] Preferably, the transverse channel and the awning grille are made in one piece.
[0022] Preferably, the transverse barrier is in the transverse slot.
[0023] Preferably, the stiffening frame supports the fabric.
[0024] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a membrane with an air-porous and water-tight material.
[0025] Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a membrane.
[0026] Preferably, the awning grille is a suction grille and / or an air inlet grille.
[0027] Preferably, the lower position below the front edge and the upper position above the upper edge are measured transversely at the level of the air inlet grille.
[0028] Preferably, in the lower position the transverse barrier is raised relative to the bottom.
[0029] Preferably, the transverse channel comprises a transverse end, the discharge section extending from the transverse end.
[0030] Preferably, the bottom is between the front edge and the rear edge.
[0031] The invention also relates to an assembly for a motor vehicle; the assembly comprising: a cowl grille; a cowl collector which comprises: a rear edge intended to run along a windshield; a cowl grille; a transverse channel arranged longitudinally between the rear edge and the cowl grille, the transverse channel comprising a bottom, a front edge, and being configured to collect rainwater flowing over the windshield; remarkable in that the transverse channel comprises an air-porous and waterproof transverse membrane, said transverse membrane being arranged between the rear edge and the cowl grille in the transverse channel in order to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel towards the cowl grille. Such a transverse membrane opposes an entry of water into the cowl grille while allowing a passage of air.The matching canopy collector optimizes moisture protection and pressure loss to draw air at the cross membrane.
[0032] Preferably, the transverse membrane is a transverse barrier, and the cowl collector comprises an actuator configured to move the transverse barrier between a lower position below the front edge and an upper position above the front edge of the transverse channel in order to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel towards the cowl grid.
[0033] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle comprising a front hood, a windshield, an assembly between the front hood and the windshield; remarkable in that the assembly is in accordance with the invention.
[0034] Preferably, the front hood comprises a rear portion, in the upper position the transverse barrier is under the rear portion.
[0035] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises a rain sensor, a controller connected to the rain sensor and to the actuator; the motor vehicle is configured so that when the rain sensor detects rain, the controller controls the actuator so as to move the transverse barrier to the upper position.
[0036] Preferably, when the rain sensor detects rain with a flow rate greater than or equal to 20 mm / h, the controller controls the actuator so as to move the transverse barrier to the upper position.
[0037] Each characteristic introduced by the expression “preferably” given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all the other aspects of the invention.
[0038] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will appear clearly on reading the description which follows, given with reference to the figures appended and listed below.
[0039] [Fig.l] is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.
[0040] [Fig.2] shows a windshield and assembly for a motor vehicle according to the invention.
[0041] [Fig. 3] is a front view of an assembly for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the transverse barrier being in the upper position.
[0042] [Fig.4] is a section of an assembly for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the transverse barrier being in the lower position.
[0043] [Fig. 5] is a section of an assembly for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the transverse barrier being in the upper position.
[0044] In the following description, the term "comprise" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it allows the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle or assembly to which it relates. It is understood that the term "comprise" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" will designate respectively that which is oriented towards the outside of the vehicle and towards the inside of the vehicle.
[0045] In the present description, the term "longitudinal", the term "longitudinally", the term "transverse", and the term "transversely" are used according to the reference frame of the vehicle, in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" corresponds to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "transverse" corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "front" refers to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "rear" designates the opposite of the front of the vehicle.
[0046] The X axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z axis represents the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. These three axes define a direct trihedron whose orientation is preserved throughout the figures.
[0047] In the present description, the equalities between the values are not to be understood in the strict sense insofar as each equality authorizes a variation of at most 10%, preferably at most 5%, more preferably at most 2%, between these values.
[0048] In the present description, the term "vertical" and the term "horizontal" are not to be understood in the strict sense of the term. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, even more preferably at most 2°; compared to the strict sense of these terms.
[0049] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the assembly configuration of the assembly, unless explicitly mentioned otherwise.
[0050] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.
[0051] [Fig.l] represents a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.
[0052] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12 and several glazed surfaces including a windshield 14. The windshield 14 delimits the front of the passenger compartment 16 of the motor vehicle 10. The passenger compartment 16 is intended to accommodate the occupants (not shown) of the motor vehicle 10. The structure 12 supports various openings providing access to the passenger compartment 16 or to other compartments. The openings comprise a front hood 18, generally called an engine hood. The front hood 18 is movable between a closed position flush with the bodywork, and an open position in elevation, for example at the level of the windshield 14.
[0053] In order to ensure the comfort of the occupants, including the driver and passengers (not shown), the motor vehicle 10 comprises an air treatment system 20. The treatment system 20 may be an air conditioning system. The treatment system 20 is capable of capturing air from outside the motor vehicle and of directing it into the passenger compartment 16 after treatment. The treatment system 20 may comprise a heater. The treatment system 20 is also capable of cooling and optionally drying the air.
[0054] The processing system 20 is controlled by a controller 22. The controller 22 may be a computer such as the on-board computer of the motor vehicle, or a programmable electronic card.
[0055] The motor vehicle 10 comprises an assembly 24, such as an awning assembly. The assembly 24 is arranged at the foot of the windshield 14, and behind the front hood 18. The assembly 24 comprises a awning grille (not shown) and a awning collector 26. The awning collector 26 is for example fixed to the structure 12. The awning collector 26 is covered by the front hood 18. The awning grille communicates with the treatment system 20. It forms an air suction grille through which the treatment system 20 takes air from the environment in order to inject it into the passenger compartment 16.
[0056] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a utility motor vehicle.
[0057] [Fig.2] shows an assembly 24 and a windshield 14 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to [Fig.l]. The front hood is not shown for the sake of clarity. Two windshield wiper devices 28 are shown.
[0058] The assembly 24 comprises: a cowl grille 30; a cowl collector 26 longitudinally between the cowl grille 30 and the windshield 14. According to one option, the cowl grille 30 is split transversely into several transverse segments. The cowl grille 30 extends transversely at least over the transverse half of the windshield 14.
[0059] The cowl collector 26 comprises a rear edge 32 running along the windshield 14. The rear edge 32 is concave. It fits the windshield 14. The cowl collector 26 also comprises a transverse channel 34 arranged longitudinally between the rear edge 32 and the cowl grille 30. The transverse channel 34 extends transversely across the entire width of the windshield 14. The transverse channel 34 forms a gutter collecting the water running off the windshield 14, then evacuating it laterally; for example towards the wheel arches.
[0060] The transverse channel 34 has a transverse profile in the shape of the letter “V”, or possibly in the shape of the letter “U”. The transverse channel 34 comprises a bottom 36, a front edge 38 on the side of the awning grid 30. Its volume makes it possible to store water when the intensity of the rain approaches that of the evacuation. The front edge 38 is convex.
[0061] The front edge 38 and the rear edge 32 are longitudinally opposite. They form the front apex and the rear apex of the transverse channel 34. They are generally parallel. The front edge 38 is between the bottom 36 and the windshield 14. The cowl grille 30 extends longitudinally from the front edge 38.
[0062] The wiper devices 28 pass through the cowl manifold 26 at the transverse channel 34. The transverse channel 34 includes wiper orifices 40 passing vertically therethrough.
[0063] The transverse channel 34 comprises an evacuation section 42. Each evacuation section 42 forms a lateral end of the transverse channel 34. Each evacuation section 42 comprises a low point of the transverse channel 34. The transverse channel 34 comprises a transverse width 44. The transverse width 44 of the transverse channel 34 is equal to that of the windshield 14.
[0064] [Fig. 3] shows a motor vehicle assembly 24. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to one of FIGS. 1 to 2. The front hood and the windshield are not shown for the sake of clarity. A runoff of rainwater is shown using dotted arrows.
[0065] The assembly 24 comprises: a cowl grille 30 and a cowl collector 26. They are optionally made of one material, or alternatively fixed to each other. The cowl collector 26 has a rear edge 32 intended to run along the windshield; a transverse channel 34 arranged longitudinally between the rear edge 32 and the cowl grille 30. The transverse channel 34 comprises a bottom 36, a front edge 38. The transverse channel 34 is configured to collect rainwater coming from the windshield.
[0066] The transverse channel 34 comprises a transverse barrier 46. The transverse barrier 46 forms an obstacle to the flow of runoff water from the windshield. It creates a baffle, a vane, adapted to control the flow of water by deflecting it. The transverse barrier 46 is movable vertically relative to the transverse channel 34.
[0067] The cowl collector 26 further comprises an actuator configured to move the transverse barrier 46 between a lower position below the front edge 38 and an upper position (visible in the present figure) above the front edge 38. This makes it possible to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel 34 towards the cowl grid 30. Indeed, all the water heading towards the grid is diverted by the transverse barrier 46.
[0068] The transverse barrier 46 is a sliding barrier. It is vertical. It has a constant thickness. According to one option, it is substantially inclined towards the rear. The transverse barrier 46 extends over 10% to 40% of the transverse width of the transverse channel 34; preferably over 15% to 30% of the transverse width of the transverse channel 34. Rationalizing the width of the transverse barrier 46 provides a compromise on pressure losses. The transverse barrier 46 may be a lateral barrier. According to one option of the invention, the canopy collector comprises two lateral barriers; for example symmetrical.
[0069] The transverse channel 34 comprises a wiper orifice 40, the transverse barrier 46 being transversely spaced from said wiper orifice 40. This aspect preserves compactness, and promotes the angle of deflection of the wiper device. The discharge section 42 is transversely spaced from the transverse barrier 46. The transverse channel 34 comprises a transverse end 48, the discharge section 42 extends from the transverse end 48.
[0070] The transverse barrier 46 comprises a curved profile; at least when viewed from above. It has a convex front face and a concave rear face. This aspect allows for a transverse widening towards the outside, therefore towards the evacuation section 42. This feature of the invention optimizes the protection of the awning grille 30. The transverse barrier 46 advantageously comprises a transverse membrane 50. The transverse barrier 46 is a filter blocking water and allowing air to pass through.
[0071] [Fig.4] shows in section a motor vehicle assembly 24. The vehicle automobile may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3. The transverse barrier 46 is shown in the lower position, or folded position.
[0072] The transverse barrier 46 is arranged in the hollow of the cowl collector 26. It is longitudinally spaced from the cowl grille 30. The transverse barrier 46, in particular the transverse membrane 50, is permeable to air and impermeable to water. The transverse barrier 46, in particular the transverse membrane 50, comprises fabric, preferably a non-woven fabric. Generally, the fabric comprises fibers.
[0073] Thus, the transverse barrier 46 allows water to be retained, and allows passage of air drawn in via the awning grille 30. It optimizes the suction pressure loss, and the control of humidity entering via the awning grille 30. In general, this preserves the air treatment system.
[0074] Preferably, the transverse barrier 46 comprises polytetrafluoroethylene, generally designated by the acronym PTFE. In the present context, this material optimizes the durability, mass, and porosity of the fabric. Preferably, the transverse barrier comprises a hydrophobic coating. This aspect prevents the transverse barrier 46 from becoming waterlogged and losing its breathable character.
[0075] The transverse barrier 46 comprises a stiffening frame 52. The stiffening frame 52 forms, for example, a rectangle or a ladder. This makes it possible to hold it in position and to facilitate deployment via the actuator 54. The stiffening frame may be metallic or plastic. The actuator 54 is, for example, a jack.
[0076] The transverse channel 34 comprises a transverse slot 56. The transverse slot 56 forms a vertical opening. It delimits a vertical passage receiving the transverse barrier 46. The transverse barrier 46 is movable in the transverse slot 56. The transverse slot 56 comprises seals 58 at its edges. The seals 58 are configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the transverse barrier 46. They rub and slide against its front face and its rear face during vertical movements.
[0077] The transverse channel 34 comprises a front partition 60 forming the front edge 38, a rear partition 62 forming the rear edge 32. The transverse barrier 46 is arranged in the rear partition 62. The rear partition 62 extends from the bottom 36. According to one option, the rear edge 32 is above the front edge 38. The front edge 38 overhangs the cowl grille 30.
[0078] One of the advantages of the lower position of the transverse barrier 46 is to avoid fouling the transverse channel 34. This prevents the accumulation of debris. In addition, the lower position does not create pressure losses for the air suction via the cowl grille 30.
[0079] According to an alternative of the invention, the actuator comprises a device for winding the transverse barrier under the transverse channel. Optionally, in the lower position, the transverse barrier is wound under the transverse channel.
[0080] [Fig. 5] shows in section a motor vehicle assembly 24. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4. The transverse barrier 46 is in the high position. It retains the rainwater running off the windshield 14 and flowing into the transverse channel 34. The transverse barrier 46 then materializes a half channel at the rear of the transverse channel 34. It is noteworthy that another half channel is in front of the transverse barrier 46. This remains dry because it is empty.
[0081] The assembly 24 comprises: a cowl grille 30 and a cowl collector 26 with a front edge 38, and a rear edge 32 running along the windshield 14. A transverse channel 34 separates the rear edge 32 from the cowl grille 30. The transverse channel 34 is configured to collect rainwater from the windshield 14. The transverse channel 34 comprises a transverse barrier 46 movable vertically relative to the transverse channel 34 by an actuator 54 moving the transverse barrier 46 between a lower position between the front edge 38 and the bottom 36, and an upper position (visible in the present figure) above the front edge 38 in order to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel 34 towards the cowl grille 30. The cowl grille 30 comprises a plurality of meshes. It forms a filter blocking the largest impurities.
[0082] The lower position and the upper position above the upper edge are measured transversely at the awning grid 30. They are measured on the upper edge of the transverse barrier 46.
[0083] The motor vehicle comprises a rain sensor 64. The controller 22 is connected to the rain sensor 64 and to the actuator 54. The motor vehicle is configured so that when the rain sensor 64 detects rain in front of the windshield 14, it emits a rain presence signal. This signal is received by the controller 22 which then controls the actuator 54. It supplies it with energy so as to move the transverse barrier 46 upwards. It deploys to the upper position. The rain sensor 64 can be coupled to a windshield wiper actuation system (not shown).
[0084] The rain sensor 64 is placed behind the windshield 14. It is fixed there. It comprises, for example, a camera detecting rain in front of the motor vehicle, or drops of water on the windshield 14. According to an alternative of the invention, the rain sensor is arranged on the front facade.
[0085] According to an option of the invention, when the rain sensor 64 detects rain, the controller controls the actuator so as to raise the transverse barrier 46 to provided that the rain reaches a flow threshold, or precipitation flow threshold. The flow threshold may be rain with a flow rate greater than or equal to 10 mm / h, preferably greater than or equal to 20 mm / h, more preferably greater than or equal to 30 mm / h. This increases the cases where the transverse barrier 46 remains retracted, which limits pressure losses.
[0086] The front hood 18 comprises a rear portion 66. The rear portion 66 is above the cowl collector 26, and opposite the windshield 14. In the upper position the transverse barrier 46 is under the rear portion 66. According to an option of the invention, the transverse barrier 46 touches it. Optionally, the transverse barrier is a porous shutter.
[0087] The controller 22 may comprise a computer 68 and a storage module 70. The computer 68 may be a microprocessor. The storage module 70 may be a recording medium. It may be a hard disk or a flash memory. The storage module 70 is capable of recording a computer program. The computer program comprises code instructions, which when executed by the computer, cause the latter to implement a method for controlling the transverse barrier.
[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the canopy collector is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may comprise a thermoplastic material or a thermosetting material. According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic material is selected from the group comprising polypropylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyamide-imide, polyetherimide, polyarylamide, polyepoxide, unsaturated polyester, vinylester or polyester-vinylester resins. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with a reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.
[0089] The cowl collector 26 comprises at least 10% by weight of recycled plastic material based on the total weight of the plastic material; preferably from 10 to 80% by weight; more preferably from 20 to 60% by weight or from 30 to 40% by weight. The use of recycled plastic material decreases the ecological footprint of the motor vehicle.
[0090] Any characteristic defined in relation to the transverse barrier applies to the transverse membrane; and vice versa.
[0091] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.
[0092] Figures 2 and 3 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.
Claims
Claims
1. An assembly (24) for a motor vehicle (10); the assembly (24) comprising: a cowl grille (30); a cowl collector (26) which comprises: a rear edge (32) intended to run along a windshield (14); a transverse channel (34) arranged longitudinally between the rear edge (32) and the cowl grille (30), the transverse channel (34) comprising a bottom (36), a front edge (38), and being configured to collect rainwater flowing over the windshield (14); characterized in that the transverse channel (34) comprises a transverse barrier (46) which is vertically movable; the cowl collector (26) comprising an actuator (54) configured to move the transverse barrier (46) between a lower position below the front edge (38) and an upper position above the front edge (38) to oppose a flow of water from the transverse channel (34) to the cowl grille (30).
2. Assembly (24) according to claim 1, characterized in that the transverse barrier (46) comprises fabric, preferably a non-woven fabric.
3. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the transverse barrier (46) comprises polytetrafluoroethylene; preferably, the transverse barrier (46) comprises a hydrophobic coating.
4. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the transverse barrier (46) comprises a stiffening frame (52).
5. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the transverse channel (34) comprises a transverse slot (56) with sealing joints (58) configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the transverse barrier (46).
6. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the transverse channel (34) comprises a front partition (60) forming the front edge (38), a rear partition (62) forming the rear edge (32); the transverse barrier (46) being arranged in the rear partition (62); preferably the rear partition (62) extends from the bottom (36).
7. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the transverse barrier (46) comprises a curved profile; and / or the transverse channel (34) comprises a discharge section (42) transversely at a distance from the transverse barrier (46).
8. Assembly (24) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that that the transverse channel (34) comprises a transverse width (44), the transverse barrier (46) extending over 10% to 40% of the transverse width (44); preferably over 15% to 30% of the transverse width (44).
9. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a front hood (18), a windshield (14), an assembly (24) between the front hood (18) and the windshield (14); characterized in that the assembly (24) conforms to one of claims 1 to 8; preferably the front hood (18) comprises a rear portion (66), in the upper position the transverse barrier (46) is under the rear portion (66).
10. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) comprises a rain sensor (64), a controller (22) connected to the rain sensor (64) and to the actuator (54); the motor vehicle (10) is configured so that when the rain sensor (64) detects rain, the controller (22) controls the actuator (54) so as to move the transverse barrier (46) to the upper position; preferably, when the rain sensor (64) detects rain with a flow rate greater than or equal to 20 mm / h, the controller (22) controls the actuator (54) so as to move the transverse barrier (46) to the upper position.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Method for controlling an air conditioning system in a vehicle
EP2212137B1
Motor vehicle with air and water guiding arrangement
US10011305B2
Panel arrangement for a motor vehicle
US10017131B2
Heating and ventilating apparatus for motor vehicles
US2510790A