Ballistic Vehicle Window Insert with Wedge Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle windows used by law enforcement personnel are typically not ballistic-resistant, leaving occupants at risk from impact by projectiles.
Innovation Solution
A window insert assembly featuring a ballistic-resistant material sheet with a contoured perimeter that fits within the existing vehicle door window frame, utilizing a wedge assembly and securing mechanism to attach and secure the insert without interfering with the operation of the stock window.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ballistic-resistant material sheet is installed in the window frame, then protection against ballistic projectiles is improved, but the complexity of the window assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window system is divided into two independent parts: the original stock window and the removable window insert assembly. The insert assembly includes the ballistic-resistant material sheet (30) mounted on a support structure (20) with attachment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the ballistic protection to be added without modifying or complicating the original window system, while the insert can be independently installed and removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The window insert assembly is designed to nest within the existing window frame opening. The support structure (20) with attachment members (22, 24) fits into the window frame, and the ballistic-resistant material sheet (30) is positioned within the frame opening. This nesting approach allows the protective insert to occupy the same space as the original window would, without requiring additional external space or complex integration.
2Reliability
If a window insert assembly is added to provide ballistic protection, then safety against projectiles is improved, but the ease of operation of the window is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members (22, 24) are designed to transition between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the window insert assembly to be dynamically installed and removed. The release mechanism (26) enables easy disengagement of the attachment members from the window frame, facilitating quick removal of the insert assembly without requiring complex tools or procedures, thus maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The window insert assembly is designed to be self-contained and self-installing. The support structure (20) with integrated attachment members (22, 24) and release mechanism (26) allows the insert to be independently mounted and removed without requiring modification of the original window or specialized installation equipment. The user can easily operate the release mechanism to remove the insert when needed.
3Reliability
If the window insert is securely attached to the window frame, then ballistic resistance is improved, but the ease of installation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members (22, 24) are designed to automatically engage with the window frame structure when the support structure (20) is positioned in the frame opening. The release mechanism (26) is self-contained and operable by the user without requiring specialized tools or expertise. This self-service design enables easy installation and removal while maintaining secure attachment for ballistic protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical attachment system is replaced with a simplified mechanism using attachment members (22, 24) that engage with the window frame through basic mechanical interference or friction fit, controlled by a release mechanism (26). This substitution reduces installation complexity while maintaining the secure attachment needed for ballistic resistance, allowing installation without specialized tools or training.
Data Source
AI summary
A window insert assembly providing ballistic protection for a window opening of a vehicle side door. The window insert assembly includes a window insert formed from a ballistic-resistant material and a wedge assembly to wedge the window insert within a window frame of the vehicle door. A method of providing ballistic protection for the window opening.