Moon Roof Re-Initialization via Predetermined Actuator Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for re-initializing moon roof assembly controllers require users to continuously actuate actuators, which is inconvenient and can be interrupted if the actuators are released prematurely, necessitating a restart of the process.

Innovation Solution

A method that re-initializes sunshade and moon roof panel controllers by actuating associated actuators for a predetermined time period, allowing the moon roof assembly to be translated to a fully closed position and using ignition cycling and actuator presses to complete the re-initialization without continuous actuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If users continuously actuate actuators during the re-initialization process, then the re-initialization can be completed, but the operation becomes inconvenient and may be interrupted if actuators are released prematurely

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompletion of re-initialization processVSAvoidconvenience of re-initialization operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by detecting specific actuator activation patterns (such as holding the actuator for a predetermined time period or specific sequences of actuator presses) to automatically initiate the re-initialization process. Once initiated, the controller autonomously completes the re-initialization without requiring continuous user actuation, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable completion and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the re-initialization process requires continuous actuator actuation, then the controllers can be re-initialized, but the process time increases and user convenience decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontroller re-initializationVSAvoidduration of re-initialization process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The controller detects preliminary user actions (such as holding an actuator button for a specific duration or pressing it a certain number of times) and automatically initiates the re-initialization sequence. The system then autonomously executes the remaining steps without requiring continuous user input, significantly reducing the time and effort required while ensuring reliable re-initialization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If actuators must be held for the entire re-initialization duration, then re-initialization completes successfully, but user convenience and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuccessful re-initializationVSAvoidactuator operation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed to detect specific preliminary actuator activation patterns (such as holding for a predetermined time period or specific press sequences) that automatically trigger the re-initialization process. Once triggered, the controller autonomously manages the entire re-initialization sequence, eliminating the need for users to continuously hold actuators and thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining successful re-initialization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10118470B2Method of re-initializing a vehicle power-operated moon roof or sunroof

Publication Date: 2018.11.06 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC

AI summary

A method for re-initializing a moon roof control system includes sequentially re-initializing first a sunshade controller and then a moon roof panel controller. The step of sequentially re-initializing is implemented by actuating one or more sunshade and/or moon roof panel actuators for a predetermined re-initializing time period that is less than a full duration of the re-initializing.