Vehicle Roof Assembly With Nested Coupler for Preserved Head Space
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle roof assemblies with adjustable panels often compromise head space due to the need for mechanical couplers and sunblind systems, which require additional components that extend away from the roof panel, reducing passenger compartment space.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle roof assembly design featuring a mounting frame with angled flanges and a mechanical coupler configuration that allows the panel device to be mounted flush with the vehicle body, eliminating the need for additional space-consuming components by integrating the sunblind guide rail and maintaining head space through strategic positioning of the mounting flange and coupler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical couplers and sunblind systems are positioned away from the roof panel to enable accessibility and adjustment, then the panel can be adjusted and secured, but head space in the passenger compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupler is integrated within the mounting frame structure, with the coupler positioned inside the space defined by the mounting frame's flanges. This nesting allows the coupler to be accessible for operation while not protruding into the passenger compartment head space, as the mounting frame encloses the coupler mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame uses an angled first flange that extends in a direction away from the second flange, creating a three-dimensional configuration where the coupler is accessible from the side rather than requiring vertical space. This dimensional repositioning allows operation accessibility without compromising head space above the passenger compartment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional components like sunblinds are positioned at a distance from the roof panel, then they can function independently, but the overall assembly complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sunblind guide rail is integrated with the mounting frame structure, where the first flange of the mounting frame serves dual purposes: providing structural support for the roof panel and serving as the guide rail for the sunblind system. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the independent functionality of the sunblind system.
Solution Approach 2:
The first flange of the mounting frame is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support for mounting the panel device, serves as a guide rail for sunblind operation, and maintains the positional relationship between components. This multi-functionality reduces overall assembly complexity while preserving independent system operation.
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 design enhances passenger compartment space by allowing the panel device to be mounted closer to the vehicle body, reducing the need for additional components and maintaining head space while providing a secure and adjustable mounting system.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting bracket may be attached to the cover panel in any suitable manner. As known in the art, the mounting bracket may be adhered using an adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle roof assembly for covering at least a part of a passenger compartment of a vehicle comprises a mounting frame and a panel device. The panel device comprises a cover panel and a mounting bracket comprising a mounting flange. The mounting frame comprises a first flange and a second flange under an angle. The second flange comprises a mechanical coupler for attaching the mounting flange. The first flange is configured to be extending towards the passenger compartment. The mounting flange is attached to the second flange at the mechanical coupler. In a mounted state, at least a part of the first flange is arranged closer to the cover panel than the mechanical coupler such that head space is preserved.