Spring-Activated Extendable Sun Visor Carrier Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable sun visors in vehicles are not easily apparent to users, require significant effort to operate, and may not extend far enough to effectively block sun glare for all users.
Innovation Solution
A carrier assembly with a track element, compression spring, and spring plate detent that allows the sun visor to be easily translated between stowed and deployed configurations, featuring a visible release mechanism and automatic extension mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual sliding mechanism is used for the sun visor, then the structure is simple, but the user effort required is significant and the extension distance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
A compression spring is pre-loaded in the carrier assembly to store mechanical energy. When the detent mechanism releases, this pre-stored energy automatically propels the visor panel from the stowed to the deployed configuration, eliminating the need for continuous user effort during extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded carrier assembly enables the visor to extend automatically without external assistance. The system serves itself by using the pre-compressed spring to generate the force needed for extension, reducing dependency on manual operation.
2Length of moving object
If a telescoping extension mechanism is added to increase extension distance, then the glare blocking capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier assembly is received within the visor panel in a nested configuration. The supporting arm is slidably received within the carrier, creating a telescoping structure that achieves extended reach while maintaining a compact stowed profile. This nested arrangement provides the extension function without requiring complex external mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If a visible release mechanism is provided for easy operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is segmented into a discrete detent mechanism with a visible indicator element. This segmented approach allows the release mechanism to be clearly visible and operable while remaining a separate, manageable component within the overall carrier assembly, rather than being integrated into a complex unified 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 provides a simple, robust, and easy-to-operate extendable sun visor assembly that is clearly visible and requires minimal user effort, ensuring effective glare reduction with automatic translation from stowed to deployed configurations.
Implementation Method 1
A compression spring is disposed within the carrier assembly and is compressed when the sun visor is in the stowed configuration. The compression spring is configured to automatically propel the sun visor from the stowed to the deployed configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier assembly for a vehicle extendable sun visor includes a track element defining a channel, a compression spring disposed within the channel, and a carrier slidably received within the channel, the carrier including a spring plate detent. A first compression spring end may contact a first track element end and a second, opposed compression spring end may contact the carrier. The track element includes a detent aperture for engaging the spring plate detent. The spring plate detent may include a pin for engaging the detent aperture. An arm is slidably received within the carrier and the track element. Extendable sun visor assemblies including the carrier assembly are described.