Flush-Closing Sliding Window Assembly for Gap-Free Vehicle Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window assemblies in vehicles with offset moving panels cause aesthetic issues, gaps leading to air leakage, and mechanical problems like pinching or stickiness in the components.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly design featuring a flush-closing moving panel that slides within slots and grooves, supported by pins, ensuring the panel aligns flush with the fixed panel in both closed and open states, reducing gaps and eliminating pinching/stickiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the moving panel is designed to slide behind the fixed panel to open the window, then the window assembly can be opened and closed, but the moving panel sits offset from the fixed panel causing aesthetic issues and gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension of movement by allowing the moving panel to not only slide horizontally but also to tilt or rotate relative to the fixed panel. This dimensional change enables the moving panel to align flush with the fixed panel when closed while still providing effective window opening functionality, thereby resolving the aesthetic issue without compromising operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic mechanism where the moving panel can adjust its position and orientation during operation. The panel transitions from a static offset position to a dynamic alignment position when closed, using hinges or pivoting points that allow real-time adjustment of the panel's spatial relationship with the fixed panel, achieving both aesthetic appearance and operational ease.
2Ease of operation
If the moving panel sits offset from the fixed panel, then the window can open and close, but gaps between the panels cause air leakage
Solution Approach 1:
By adding a tilting or rotating dimension to the moving panel's movement, the patent enables the panel to press against the fixed panel or sealing surface when closed, eliminating gaps in the horizontal plane. This dimensional adjustment ensures proper sealing while maintaining the sliding opening mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sealing elements or gaskets as intermediary components between the moving panel and the fixed panel or frame. These intermediaries fill and seal the gaps that exist during operation, preventing air leakage while allowing the moving panel to maintain its offset position for ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the moving panel slides to close the window, then the window can be opened and closed, but pinching or stickiness occurs in the moving components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic mechanism where the moving panel can adjust its position and orientation during operation. The panel transitions from a static offset position to a dynamic alignment position when closed, using hinges or pivoting points that allow real-time adjustment of the panel's spatial relationship with the fixed panel, achieving both aesthetic appearance and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sealing elements or gaskets as intermediary components between the moving panel and the fixed panel or frame. These intermediaries fill and seal the gaps that exist during operation, preventing air leakage while allowing the moving panel to maintain its offset position for ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein relate to window assemblies. In one embodiment, a window assembly includes a fixed panel defining an opening and a rail that attaches to the fixed panel. The window assembly also includes a guide provided on the rail and defining grooves. The window assembly also includes a shoe at least partially overlapping the guide and defining slots. The window assembly further includes a moving panel supported by the shoe and interacting with the guide by pins that extend through the slots and into the grooves such that the slots, together with the grooves, cause the moving panel to slide within the slots and with respect to the fixed panel between a closed state, in which the moving panel blocks the opening and is substantially flush with the fixed panel, and an open state in which the moving panel unblocks the opening.