Sliding Panel Assembly with Transparent Front Edge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding panel assemblies for vehicle roofs often obstruct openings and do not effectively admit light and air due to frame obstructions and opaque materials at transverse edges, limiting the amount of light and air that can enter the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A sliding panel assembly with a frame portion connected to a panel portion, where the frame is either absent or made of transparent material at the front transverse edge, and an extension assembly that moves the panel between closed and open positions, allowing unobstructed access to an opening extending from one side window to another, thereby increasing light and air admission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a frame portion is used to connect the panel to the sliding mechanism, then structural strength and support are improved, but visibility and light admission are worsened due to frame obstructions at transverse edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the frame portion from the front transverse edge of the sliding panel, extracting the obstructing element while retaining it at other edges where structural support is needed. This allows light and visibility to pass through the front edge without frame interference, while maintaining structural integrity at the rear and side edges through the retained frame portions.
2Ease of manufacture
If opaque materials are used at transverse edges for structural support, then manufacturing ease and structural stability are improved, but light admission and passenger visibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties to different portions of the sliding panel. The front transverse edge is made transparent or translucent to maximize light admission, while other edges may use opaque materials for structural support. This local differentiation of material quality allows each portion to fulfill its specific function optimally.
3Quantity of substance
If the panel is moved to an open position to increase air admission, then air flow into the vehicle is improved, but the panel may obstruct side windows when in certain intermediate positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sliding panel with a configuration that allows it to move dynamically between closed and fully open positions without creating harmful obstructions. The panel's geometry and tracking system enable it to clear the side windows during movement, allowing air admission while avoiding the harmful effect of blocking side window visibility and access.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a windshield, an opening that is located rearward of the windshield, and a sliding panel. The sliding panel has a panel portion and a frame portion, and the frame portion is connected to the panel portion. The sliding panel obstructs the opening in a closed position and is moveable to an open position in which at least part of the opening is unobstructed. The sliding panel is at least one of translucent or transparent. The frame portion does not block visibility through the sliding panel adjacent to a front transverse edge of the panel portion.