Curved Terminal Connector Geometry for Windshield Glass Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal connectors attached to vehicle windshields can cause damage such as glass breakage and spalling, leading to windshield failure and failure of attached electronic equipment.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly design with a first terminal connector having a base portion with a curved center portion closer to the glass surface, oblique edge portions, and lead-free solder to reduce stress and minimize damage, combined with a conductive wire assembly and insulating sheath for electrical communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate connectors are used for sash and jamb members, then connection flexibility is improved, but device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate sash and jamb connectors into a single integrated terminal connector that interfaces with both sash members and jamb members. This unified connector reduces the total number of components while maintaining the flexibility to connect to different member types through its dual-interface design.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal connector is designed with universal functionality to connect to both sash members and jamb members through different interface configurations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized connectors, reducing complexity while preserving connection adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors are used, then connection coverage is improved, but installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal connector merges multiple connection functions into a single component that can simultaneously or sequentially connect to both sash and jamb members, reducing the number of installation steps and overall installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal connector is pre-configured with multiple interface types and mounting options, allowing installers to quickly adapt it to different connection scenarios without requiring multiple separate connectors or extensive on-site configuration.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional connectors are used without integrated seals, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but weather sealing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal connector integrates weather sealing functionality directly into the connector body through incorporated seals and gaskets, eliminating the need for separate sealing components while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through integrated molding or assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal connector combines different materials within a single component - typically a rigid connector body made from durable plastic or metal, combined with flexible sealing elements made from elastomers or rubber compounds, creating a composite structure that provides both structural integrity and weather sealing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A window assembly includes a first pane of glass and a first terminal connector in mechanical communication with the first pane of glass. The first terminal connector has a first base portion which includes a first surface. The first surface is separated from the first pane of glass by solder. The first surface includes a center portion. The center portion includes a curved portion which is nearer the major surface of the first pane of glass than a remaining portion of the center portion. The solder separating the curved portion from the major surface of the first pane of glass is of a thickness which is less than a thickness of the solder separating the remaining portion of the center portion.