Side Sill Covering Assembly With Spindle-Driven Pivot Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing covering assemblies for side sills of passenger motor cars are complex and inefficient in terms of space usage, making them difficult to construct and use, especially for easy entry and exit.
Innovation Solution
A covering assembly with a spindle drive system that includes a motor, spindle, and driving element, allowing the first and second covering elements to pivot between a covering position and a convenience position, thereby optimizing space and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional covering assembly is used to cover the side sill, then the side sill is protected, but the construction becomes complex and space-efficient entry/exit is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The covering assembly is divided into multiple covering elements (first covering element, second covering element, third covering element) that can move independently relative to each other. Each element is pivotable around its own pivot axis, allowing segmented movement to create entry/exit space without requiring a completely complex mechanical system. The segmentation enables localized adjustment rather than moving the entire covering assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering elements are designed to be dynamically adjustable during operation. The elements can pivot between a covering position (providing protection) and a retracted position (providing entry/exit space). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements, balancing protection needs with ease of entry/exit without permanent structural complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If covering elements are arranged under the door opening to provide protection, then the side sill is covered, but space for entry and exit is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The covering elements are designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing them to pivot between a covering position (where they protect the side sill) and a retracted position (where they clear the entry/exit path). The first covering element pivots around a first pivot axis, the second around a second pivot axis, enabling them to move out of the way when needed while maintaining protection when stationary.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering elements are arranged in a longitudinal area under the door opening, extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. By positioning them in this longitudinal dimension rather than blocking the transverse entry path, they provide side sill protection while minimizing interference with entry/exit movement in the transverse direction.
3Device complexity
If a simple drive mechanism is used for the covering elements, then the construction is simplified, but the reliability of movement control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical drive systems with a more reliable electrical actuation system. The actuator (electric motor) directly drives the covering elements to pivot around their respective axes, eliminating the need for complex linkages, cables, or hydraulic systems. This substitution maintains reliability through direct electrical control while significantly simplifying the overall drive mechanism structure.
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
The solution achieves a simple, space-efficient, and robust construction of the covering assembly, enhancing comfort during entry and exit by freeing up space around the side sill, reducing the risk of clothing damage.
Implementation Method 1
The spindle has a first thread, which is, for example, formed as external screw threading, wherein the driving element has a second thread that, for example, corresponds to the first thread and is, for example, formed as internal screw threading. The driving element is screwed onto the spindle in such a way that the threads mentioned are screwed to each other.
Data Source
AI summary
A covering assembly for a side sill of a passenger motor car includes a sill cover which has a first covering element, a second covering element, and a drive unit. Via the drive unit the first covering element is pivotable around a first pivot axis and the second covering element is pivotable relative to the side sill between a covering position and a convenience position around a second pivot axis. The drive unit is a spindle drive which has a motor shared with the covering elements, a spindle shared with the covering elements and rotatable by the motor, and a driving element shared with the covering elements and screwed onto the spindle. The driving element is slidable along the spindle via rotation of the spindle such that the covering elements are pivotable.