Golf Cart Windshield Assembly with Adjustable Upper Pane

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art golf cart windshields lack the ability to securely and conveniently adjust the opening height, often requiring removal or storage on the roof, which is cumbersome and does not provide adequate protection from weather elements.

Innovation Solution

A golf cart windshield assembly featuring a U-shaped channel with adjustable slots and spring-loaded pins allows for vertical adjustment of the upper windshield pane, enabling secure positioning and easy operation, with features like apertures for pin engagement and hooks for accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the upper windshield panel is made removable or stored on the roof, then the windshield can be completely removed when not needed, but this makes the windshield inconvenient and cumbersome to maneuver

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindshield removal capabilityVSAvoidwindshield maneuverability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The windshield assembly employs a dynamic folding mechanism where the upper panel can pivot between a closed position (providing full protection) and an open position (allowing airflow). The spring-loaded pins enable the panel to be held in intermediate positions, creating a dynamic system that adapts to different weather conditions without requiring complete removal or roof storage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the upper windshield panel is hinged to fold down over the lower panel, then an open area is provided at the front of the golf cart, but the inability to easily and effectively secure the upper panel when open makes the system inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveopening capabilityVSAvoidpanel securing reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded pin mechanism is designed to be self-securing. When the upper panel is folded down, the spring-loaded pins automatically engage with the lower panel to hold it in the open position. The user simply needs to press the release mechanism to open or close the panel, and the spring force automatically secures it in place, eliminating the need for separate securing actions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The windshield is divided into two separate panels (upper and lower) that can move independently relative to each other. The upper panel is further segmented into multiple sections that can be secured at different positions along the hinge, allowing flexible positioning while maintaining structural integrity and secure attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the windshield opening height is fixed, then the structure is simple, but the inability to adjust the opening height reduces adaptability to different weather conditions and user preferences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveopening height adjustmentVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of providing continuous adjustment capability, the invention uses discrete adjustment positions with spring-loaded pins that can be secured at multiple predetermined heights. This partial adjustment approach provides sufficient versatility for different weather conditions while keeping the mechanism simple and easy to manufacture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable height mechanism creates a dynamic structure where the upper panel can be positioned at multiple heights along the hinge. The spring-loaded pins enable easy transition between positions, transforming a static fixed-height windshield into a dynamic adjustable system that adapts to user needs without complex mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

The assembly provides adjustable and secure windscreen operation, allowing for variable opening heights to enhance airflow and protection from weather, while being easy to use and adaptable to different golf cart designs.

Implementation Method 1

a spring loaded pin secured to the upper windshield pane, where the pin is adapted to engage the aperture of the flange to restrain the upper windshield pane in a desired vertical position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS8087711B1Golf cart windshield assembly

Publication Date: 2012.01.03 MAURO EDWARD

AI summary

A golf cart windshield assembly is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the assembly includes a longitudinal U-shaped channel, where a first longitudinal slot is disposed adjacent to the U-shaped channel and the first slot is adapted to receive an edge of a lower windshield pane. A second longitudinal slot is disposed adjacent to the first slot, where the second slot is adapted to slidingly engage an edge of an upper windshield pane. A flange is joined along a longitudinal edge of the second slot and extends generally at a right angle to the second longitudinal slot and includes at least one aperture. The assembly also includes a spring loaded pin secured to the upper windshield pane, where the pin is adapted to engage the aperture of the flange to restrain the upper windshield pane in a desired vertical position.