Split Windshield Actuation for Driver and Passenger Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield systems for motor vehicles, particularly in convertible types like 'barchetta' or 'torpedo' designs, are limited to serving only the driver and have complex, cumbersome actuation systems that do not effectively provide protection or functionality for passengers.
Innovation Solution
A windshield system for motor vehicles comprising two independent, angularly displaceable parts with a motor-driven actuation mechanism, including an electric jack and articulated linkage, allowing each part to be raised or lowered for improved passenger protection and simplified operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single windshield is used for the driver only, then the actuation system can be simple, but the passenger lacks protection and the system cannot serve both occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The windshield is divided into two separate, independently controllable parts: a driver-side windshield and a passenger-side windshield. Each part can be raised or lowered independently, allowing selective protection for each occupant while using separate, simplified actuation mechanisms for each section rather than one complex system controlling a single large windshield.
2Ease of operation
If a motor-driven actuation system is used, then the windshield can be easily raised and lowered, but the system becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems with electric actuators (motors) that directly drive the windshield parts up and down. This substitution of mechanical linkages with electric motors simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of operation through electrical control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the windshield is made of a single piece, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide independent control for driver and passenger
Solution Approach 1:
The windshield structure is segmented into two distinct parts that can be independently controlled. The driver-side windshield and passenger-side windshield are separate components with independent actuation systems, allowing each to be raised or lowered independently to meet different protection needs of the occupants.
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
Enables effective protection for both the driver and passenger by allowing independent angular displacement of windshield parts, enhancing passenger safety and simplifying the actuation process, while maintaining structural stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
each part being raisable and lowerable around such axis by means of a respective actuation mechanism, including a horizontal actuator, which preferably consists of an electric jack
Implementation Method 2
The horizontal actuator preferably consists of an electric jack arranged beneath the windshield part and connected to the support frame by means of an articulated linkage
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield for motor vehicles having a driving station and a passenger station arranged side by side to the driving station, including two windshield parts separated from each other and angularly displaceable in a motor-driven manner and independently between a lowered position and a raised position around a lower transversal axis.