Ribbed Decorative Panel for Sunroof Structural Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sunroof structures lack both an attractive appearance and sufficient structural reinforcement, failing to provide a visually appealing and rigid solution.
Innovation Solution
A sunroof structure incorporating a frame, transparent material, and a decorative panel made of sheet metal with ribs, which is securely attached to the frame to cover the interior of the transparent material, offering both aesthetic appeal and structural rigidity, with optional electrically powered light sources for enhanced illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional sunroof structure is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it lacks structural reinforcement and rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The sunroof structure combines multiple materials (transparent material for glazing, decorative panel for reinforcement, frame for support) to create a composite structure that achieves both aesthetic appeal and structural rigidity. The decorative panel made of sheet metal with ribs provides structural reinforcement while the transparent material maintains light transmission.
2Shape
If a decorative panel is added to the sunroof structure, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative panel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides aesthetic appearance enhancement, structural reinforcement through its ribbed design, and rigidity support for the sunroof structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the decorative function and structural reinforcement function into a single integrated panel component. The decorative panel is securely attached to the frame and covers the interior portion of the transparent material, combining aesthetic and structural roles in one element.
3Shape
If the decorative panel covers the interior portion of the transparent material, then aesthetic appearance is enhanced, but light transmission is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative panel is designed to cover only the interior portion of the transparent material, leaving the exterior surface transparent. This local application of the decorative panel maintains aesthetic enhancement while preserving light transmission through the transparent material where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A sunroof structure includes a frame, a transparent material and a decorative panel. The frame is configured to install to a vehicle roof structure above a passenger compartment. The transparent material is installed to the frame such that light can pass therethrough to the passenger compartment. The decorative panel is installed to the frame such that at least a portion of the decorative panel covers an interior portion of the transparent material.