Crank Oscillating Gear for Parallel Wind Deflector Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind deflector drives for convertibles often result in aerodynamically unfavorable pivoting movements, which are not simple or reliable for adjusting to different operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A crank oscillating gear mechanism that converts rotary movements into linear movements, allowing the wind deflector slat to be raised or lowered parallel to the roof frame, using a combination of rotary levers and a rod gear for precise and space-efficient operation, with optional locking devices to secure the slat in position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pivoting movement mechanism is used to extend the wind deflector, then the wind deflector can be extended from non-use to use position, but the angle of the wind deflector changes which is aerodynamically unfavorable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a four-bar linkage mechanism that dynamically maintains the wind deflector in a fixed angular position relative to the vehicle body during extension. The parallel arrangement of the two slats and their synchronized movement through the linkage system ensures that both slats extend simultaneously while maintaining their aerodynamic angle, eliminating the harmful pivoting motion described in the contradiction.
2Ease of operation
If an articulated lever arrangement is used to move the wind deflector, then the wind deflector can be transferred from non-use to use position, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wind deflector into two separate slats that can move independently but are synchronized through the four-bar linkage. This segmentation allows each slat to be actuated by its own drive mechanism, simplifying the overall control system while maintaining the ability to adjust position. The modular structure of separate slats with individual articulation points reduces the complexity compared to a single large articulated lever system.
3Ease of operation
If a four-bar linkage chain is used to extend the wind deflector, then the wind deflector can be moved from inactive to active position, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The four-bar linkage mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it extends the wind deflectors, maintains their aerodynamic angle, synchronizes the movement of both slats, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity despite the presence of the linkage chain. The linkage acts as both a positioning mechanism and a structural framework.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the wind deflector to be moved in a parallel direction, improving aerodynamics and reliability by allowing for precise adjustment and secure locking in both use and non-use positions, enhancing the adaptability to different driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The invention specifies a drive with a linkage designed as a crank oscillating gear, which lifts the lamella largely parallel away from the roof frame into the use position or deposits it on the roof frame in the non-use position
Implementation Method 2
A rotary lever (4.2) designed as a drive lever is arranged with a first rotary lever end (5) so that it can rotate about a slat axis (3)
Implementation Method 3
two drive levers are provided, with the drive means acting on a rod gear that connects the crank arm axes of the two drive levers to one another
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a drive for moving a bar (1) of a wind deflector (W). Said drive comprises at least one coupler mechanism which is connected to the bar (1) by one end in an articulated manner and to the roof frame (2) by the other end in an articulated manner, and by which means the bar (1) can be moved between a position of non-use (I) and a position of use (II). The coupling mechanism is embodied as a crank-and-rocker mechanism (K) which lifts the bar (1) away from the roof frame (2) in a largely parallel manner into the position of use (I), or places the bar on the roof frame (6) in the position of non-use (II).