Single Applique Support for Flush Vehicle Door Window Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applique arrangements for vehicles often result in a cluttered appearance due to multiple vertical lines between the front and rear door windows, and they struggle with sealing gaps effectively.
Innovation Solution
A single applique arrangement is mounted between the front and rear door windows, with an applique support rigidly connected to the vehicle's body or door bodywork, ensuring a flush appearance and reduced gaps between the applique and windows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple appliques are used between front and rear door windows, then sealing coverage is improved, but appearance becomes cluttered with multiple vertical lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate appliques into a single integrated applique structure that spans the entire distance between the front and rear door windows. This single applique incorporates multiple sealing elements and attachment points internally, merging the functions of what would traditionally require multiple separate components. The result is a clean external appearance with only one vertical line while maintaining comprehensive sealing coverage through the integrated structure.
2Reliability
If applique extends beyond window edge, then sealing is facilitated, but gap visibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different qualities to different regions of the applique. The main body of the applique extends beyond the window edge to provide effective sealing coverage, while the edges are finished with trim pieces or molding that match the surrounding bodywork. This allows the functional portion to extend for sealing while the visible portions are aesthetically integrated, making gaps imperceptible rather than visible.
3Shape
If single applique is used between front and rear door windows, then appearance is cleaned up, but mounting flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The single applique is designed as a universal component with multiple attachment points and configurable mounting options. It can be mounted to either the front door bodywork, rear door bodywork, or B-pillar, and can accommodate different window positions and door configurations. The applique includes integrated sealing channels, mounting flanges, and adjustment mechanisms that allow it to adapt to various vehicle body styles and door arrangements, maintaining mounting flexibility despite the simplified single-piece design.
Data Source
AI summary
An applique arrangement for a vehicle which has a front door with a front door window and a rear door with a rear door window. The applique arrangement comprises a single applique which is configured to be arranged between the front door window and the rear door window and an applique support to which the applique is mounted. The applique support is configured to be rigidly connected to one of a rear door bodywork, a front door bodywork, or a B-pillar of a body of the vehicle.