Magnetic Vehicle Window Shade with Ferromagnetic Casing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window coverings for vehicles often interfere with the operation of windows or require adhesives that can damage the glass, and they lack a secure attachment method that withstands vehicle motion.

Innovation Solution

A window covering system featuring a rigid casing with ferromagnetic material and permanent magnets that attach magnetically to the window frame's header and footer, allowing for secure retention without interfering with window operation and preventing damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If adhesive methods are used to attach window coverings to glass, then the window covering can be secured in place, but the glass may be damaged and the window operation may be interfered with

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidglass damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary force between the window covering and the window frame. The casing includes ferromagnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the window frame, creating a secure attachment without direct contact that could cause damage. This magnetic intermediary allows the covering to be held firmly in place while avoiding the harmful effects of adhesives on the glass surface and window operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional attachment methods are used, then the window covering can be fixed, but it interferes with window operation and cannot withstand vehicle motion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment security during vehicle motionVSAvoidwindow operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field serves as a non-contact intermediary that provides secure attachment during vehicle motion without interfering with window operation. The ferromagnetic casing is attracted to the window frame through the magnetic field, creating a reliable connection that withstands motion while allowing the window to be opened and closed freely.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment methods (adhesives, clips, or direct fastening) with a magnetic field-based attachment system. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical components that would interfere with window operation while providing sufficient holding force to withstand vehicle motion through the non-contact magnetic attraction between the ferromagnetic casing and the window frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If magnetic attachment is used, then the window covering can be securely retained during vehicle motion, but the casing must include ferromagnetic material which increases weight

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretention during vehicle motionVSAvoidcasing weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter of the casing to include ferromagnetic material, which enables magnetic attachment to the window frame. This parameter change allows the casing to be securely retained during vehicle motion through magnetic attraction. The weight increase from adding ferromagnetic material is acceptable given the significant improvement in retention reliability during vehicle motion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system provides a secure, damage-free, and adjustable sun shade that remains stationary during vehicle motion, allowing windows to be rolled up or down without disturbance, while maintaining visibility and airflow.

Implementation Method 1

Each magnet is configured to exert a pull force sufficient to retain the window covering to the window frame of the vehicle such that the casing of the window covering does not move relative to the window frame during motion of the vehicle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

The casing is rigid and includes a ferromagnetic material. The first magnet is magnetically attached to the first member and is configured to be magnetically attached to the window frame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2686178B1Window covering configured to be magnetically attached to a window frame of a vehicle
Publication Date: 2020.05.13 NSV GRP FZCO
  • EP2686178B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2686178B1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP2686178B1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

A window covering is configured for attachment to a window frame of a vehicle to cover an opening defined in the window frame. The window covering includes a casing, a panel, a first magnet, and a second magnet. The casing includes a first member and a second member. The casing includes a ferromagnetic material. The panel is attached to first and second members and covers the hole. The first magnet and second magnet are magnetically attached to the respective first member and second member. The first and second magnets are configured to be magnetically attached to the window frame. The magnets are permanent magnets. Each magnet is configured to exert a pull force sufficient to retain the window covering to the window frame of the vehicle such that the casing of the window covering does not move relative to the window frame during motion of the vehicle.