Divisible Apron Junction Waterproofing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing divisible motor vehicle leg aprons suffer from water leaks along the junction line between their parts, especially when the vehicle is in motion or stationary, due to inadequate waterproofing.
Innovation Solution
A leg apron design featuring a coupling system with waterproofing elements, including longitudinal flaps and fastening elements like Velcro or magnetic strips, which create a labyrinth seal to prevent water leakage along the junction line, and an optional internal heating system for added comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a divisible legs apron is used to protect the driver's legs, then the coverage and protection area are improved, but water leaks occur along the junction line between parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension by adding longitudinal flaps that extend perpendicular to the junction line, creating an overlapping layered structure. This dimensional addition transforms the simple edge-to-edge connection into a multi-layer barrier system that effectively blocks water penetration while preserving the divisible apron's coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproofing structure employs a nested configuration where longitudinal flaps from one apron part overlap and interlock with corresponding flaps from the other part. This nesting creates a labyrinthine path that prevents water leakage, allowing the divisible apron to maintain both its segmented structure and waterproof integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the apron is designed as divisible parts for flexibility and installation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of waterproofing deteriorates due to the junction line
Solution Approach 1:
The apron maintains its segmented divisible structure for ease of installation and adjustment, while each segment is equipped with integrated longitudinal flaps and fastening elements. This segmentation approach allows independent installation of apron parts while ensuring that the junction lines between segments achieve reliable waterproofing through the flap overlap mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal flaps act as intermediary elements between the two apron parts, creating a transitional waterproof barrier at the junction line. These flaps mediate the connection between separate apron sections, providing both mechanical attachment and waterproof sealing functions that maintain reliability while preserving operational flexibility.
3Device complexity
If simple coupling is used between apron parts, then the device complexity is reduced, but water leaks occur during vehicle movement when water is pushed parallel to the apron plane
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal flaps are pre-positioned and extend beyond the junction line before any water exposure occurs. This preliminary positioning creates an anticipatory barrier that intercepts water pushed parallel to the apron plane during vehicle motion, preventing water from reaching the junction line without requiring complex active sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlapping flap configuration creates a curved, labyrinthine water path rather than a straight line connection between apron parts. This curved geometry deflects water flow that is pushed parallel to the apron plane during motion, directing it away from the junction line through multiple directional changes that a simple flat coupling cannot achieve.
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
Significantly reduces water leakage along the junction line, providing effective waterproofing both during movement and stationary periods, while also offering enhanced comfort with an optional heating system.
Implementation Method 1
at least one waterproofing element arranged to waterproof said junction line
Data Source
AI summary
A legs apron for a motor vehicle includes a first part of apron having anchoring elements for removably anchoring the first part of apron to the motor vehicle, a second part of apron configured to at least cover the legs of a driver of the motor vehicle, a coupling system operatively interposed between the first and the second part of apron for removably coupling the first and second part of apron to each other, the coupling system defining a junction line between the first and second part of apron when the first and second part of apron are coupled together, where the apron further includes a waterproofing element arranged to waterproof the junction line.