Sunroof Check Assembly Locking Component Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sunroof systems experience undesired movement of locking components during operation due to the use of springs that bias locking components toward pins, leading to instability and inefficiency in the tilting and sliding mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A tilt and slide apparatus for a vehicle sunroof that includes a drive shoe, a pivot link, a lift guide, and a check assembly with a cylindrical portion and locking component, which ensures proper alignment and locking of the locking feature to prevent unwanted movement, allowing for controlled tilting and sliding of the sunroof panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring is used to bias the locking component toward the pin, then the locking component can be maintained in position, but undesired movement of the locking component occurs during sunroof operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring from the locking mechanism entirely. Instead of using a spring to bias the locking component toward the pin, the design uses a direct mechanical engagement system where the locking component engages with a ramp surface on the pin, eliminating the spring and its associated instability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a ramp surface on the pin that provides a controlled engagement path for the locking component. This ramp surface acts as a cushioning mechanism that guides the locking component into its locked position smoothly, preventing undesired movement while maintaining reliability.
2Speed
If the tilt-up stroke is performed quickly to open the sunroof, then the opening speed is improved, but the locking component experiences undesired movement
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the spring-based locking mechanism, the patent eliminates the source of instability that occurred during quick tilt-up strokes. The direct mechanical engagement with the ramp surface provides reliable locking even during high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: the pin with its ramp surface, the locking component with its engagement surface, and the check collar. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, with the ramp surface providing controlled engagement during rapid movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking component is allowed to move along the pin, then some adjustment is possible, but operational instability and inefficiency occur
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp surface on the pin provides a pre-designed engagement path that allows the locking component to move controllably during the locking process, then firmly holds it in position. This provides the necessary adaptability during engagement while ensuring operational efficiency once locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp surface acts as an intermediary between the pin and the locking component, providing a controlled transition path that enables smooth engagement while preventing unwanted movement during operation. This intermediary surface resolves the conflict between adjustability and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A tilt and slide apparatus for a sunroof of a vehicle includes a movable panel, a drive shoe configured to slide in a forward/rearward direction relative to the front of the vehicle, a lift guide connected to an end of the movable panel, and a check assembly. The check assembly couples the drive shoe and the lift guide when the drive shoe is slid in the forward direction to the lift guide. The check assembly includes a cylindrical portion, a cylindrical portion a locking component that is positioned on the cylindrical portion, and a check collar that is positioned on and coupled to an end of the cylindrical portion adjacent the locking component.