Window Regulator Cable Conduit Reduces Friction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window regulator systems face inefficiencies due to additional friction introduced by cable guides and premature failure of pulleys from tensional stress, which affect operational efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
An integrated window regulator module with a carrier panel, rails, and a cable assembly that includes a conduit for the cable element, reducing friction and stress on pulleys by transferring tension loads through bushings to the rail and drive mechanism, eliminating the need for unsheathed cable routing between pulleys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cable guides are used to guide the cable element, then the cable routing is controlled, but additional friction is introduced into the window regulator assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a conduit as an intermediary component that houses the cable element. The conduit allows the cable to be guided and protected while minimizing direct contact friction with guiding structures. By encapsulating the cable within the conduit, the system achieves controlled routing without the harmful friction effects of traditional cable guides.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If pulleys are used to change cable direction, then friction is reduced compared to cable guides, but tensional stress causes premature failure of the pulley mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cable element from direct exposure to tensional stresses by placing it inside a conduit. This removes the cable from the harmful environment of direct mechanical stress and friction, protecting both the cable and the mounting structure from premature failure while maintaining directional control.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit serves as a protective intermediary between the cable element and the mounting structure. It distributes and mitigates tensional stresses, preventing direct transmission of harmful forces to the pulley mounting while still allowing the cable to change direction effectively.
3Ease of operation
If the cable element is unsheathed for contact with cable guides, then the cable can be guided, but friction increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a conduit that acts as a flexible protective shell for the cable element. This shell allows the cable to be guided through defined paths while maintaining smooth operation and minimizing friction. The conduit's flexible nature enables it to conform to routing requirements without creating harmful friction points.
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
This solution reduces friction and stress on pulleys, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by distributing tension loads effectively, thereby prolonging the lifespan of the window regulator components.
Implementation Method 1
the conduit containing a cable element slideably received within the conduit
Implementation Method 2
transferring tension loads through bushings to the rail and drive mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated module as a window regulator assembly including: a carrier panel for mounting to a frame of a vehicle closure panel; at least one rail on the carrier panel, the rail associated with at least one cable guide in conjunction with a regulator carriage, the regulator carriage for coupling to a window of the closure panel; a drive mechanism on the carrier panel, the drive mechanism for operating the regulator carriage along a track of the rail; a cable assembly coupling the regulator carriage to the drive mechanism via the cable guide, the cable assembly including a conduit connected at one end to the rail and connected at another end to the drive mechanism, the conduit containing a cable element slideably received within the conduit; wherein the cable element is unsheathed from the conduit where the cable element is in contact with the cable guide.