Profile Strip Arrangement for Windshield Cowl
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing profile strip arrangements for motor vehicle windshields are prone to deformation during transport due to weight-bearing loads, and the use of transport protection strips requires additional handling and disposal steps, complicating production, transport, and assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A profile strip arrangement with a continuous base section formed by the connecting section and the bottom section of a U-shaped or V-shaped material section, which transmits forces without buckling, eliminating the need for a keder rail and simplifying production, transport, and assembly by integrating a reinforcement insert and material projection for enhanced stability and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the windshield is supported on the second connecting area of the profile strip during transport, then the windshield is protected against damage, but the weight of the windshield causes undesired deformation of the second connecting area
Solution Approach 1:
The profile strip is divided into functionally distinct sections: a first connecting area for windshield attachment and a second connecting area for cowl cover attachment. This segmentation allows each area to be optimized for its specific function, with the first area designed to bear transport loads while the second area maintains its geometric integrity for precise latching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The profile strip exhibits local quality variations through its cross-sectional geometry. The first connecting area has structural characteristics optimized for load-bearing during transport, while the second connecting area features a U-shaped or V-shaped material section with a groove-shaped receiving area optimized for precise latching of the cowl cover, allowing each region to have properties tailored to its specific functional requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a transport protection strip (keder rail) is used to prevent deformation of the second connecting area, then deformation is prevented, but additional handling and disposal steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The protective function previously requiring a separate keder rail is merged into the profile strip structure itself. The first connecting area is integrated with the second connecting area through a continuous base section, creating an inherent load path that protects the second connecting area during transport without requiring additional components or handling steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The profile strip structure is designed to be self-protecting during transport. The continuous base section and structural design of the first connecting area automatically bear and distribute the windshield weight, preventing deformation of the second connecting area without requiring external protection elements or additional operational steps for installation and removal.
3Shape
If the profile strip has a flat/flush outer side design, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the structure becomes more prone to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The solution moves the structural reinforcement to a different dimension - internally within the profile strip cross-section rather than externally on the surface. The continuous base section and internal geometry provide the necessary strength and deformation resistance while maintaining the desired flat/flush external appearance for aesthetic purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
A profile strip arrangement includes a profile strip having first and second connecting areas. The first connecting area has a connecting section configured to establish a connection to an inside of a windshield and the second connecting area has a U-shaped or V-shaped material section having two legs which delimit a groove-shaped receiving area configured to receive a latching section of a windshield cowl cover. As seen in a cross section of the profile strip, at least a partial layer of the connecting section, which is oriented in parallel to a top of the connecting section facing the windshield, and at least a partial layer of a bottom section of the U-shaped or V-shaped material section together form a continuous base section of the profile strip which extends in one plane and from which the legs of the U-shaped or V-shaped material section project.