Automotive Sunroof Guide Block with Intersecting Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sunroof guide blocks are large and heavy, requiring high power to move, generating noise, and creating gaps between the sliding panel and the roof, which affects aesthetics and aerodynamics.
Innovation Solution
A compact guide block design with intersecting channels and a check block system that allows for efficient pin movement without creating gaps, using a front channel connecting to a lower channel at one angle and a rear channel connecting to an upper channel at another angle, with a cross-over region enabling simultaneous pin movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional guide block is used to achieve sunroof panel displacement, then the sliding panel can be moved, but the guide block creates a gap between the sliding panel and the roof, affecting aesthetics and aerodynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block is segmented into multiple channels (front channel, rear channel, lower channel, upper channel) that work together to guide the pin through a complex motion path. This segmentation allows the guide block to control both the sliding and tilting movements separately, enabling the panel to move while maintaining flush contact with the roof.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide block incorporates a three-dimensional pin movement path with multiple channels intersecting at different angles and elevations. The pin travels through lower channel, front channel, rear channel, and upper channel in sequence, moving from one dimension to another. This multi-dimensional path allows the panel to tilt and slide simultaneously while keeping the panel flush with the roof surface.
2Ease of operation
If a large guide block is used to provide sufficient guide path, then the pin can move adequately, but the guide block becomes heavy and requires higher power to move
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block design nests multiple channels within a compact structure. The front channel and rear channel are positioned to intersect with the lower and upper channels in a space-efficient arrangement. The check block is slidable within the front channel, providing additional guidance functionality within the same structural envelope. This nesting allows sufficient guide path length without increasing overall guide block dimensions and weight.
3Ease of operation
If a large guide block is used to ensure proper pin guidance, then the guidance function is adequate, but the guide block requires a larger mounting rail, increasing space and weight
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple guidance functions are merged into a single guide block structure. The front channel, rear channel, lower channel, and upper channel are integrated into one compact guide block that can be mounted on a smaller rail. The check block sliding within the front channel provides additional guidance capability without requiring separate components or larger mounting space.
4Ease of operation
If a large guide block is used to provide sufficient guide path, then the pin can move properly, but noise is increased during sunroof operation
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block design nests multiple channels within a compact structure. The front channel and rear channel are positioned to intersect with the lower and upper channels in a space-efficient arrangement. The check block is slidable within the front channel, providing additional guidance functionality within the same structural envelope. This nesting allows sufficient guide path length without increasing overall guide block dimensions and weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A guide block for a sunroof of an automobile including a front channel extending upwards and connecting to a lower channel at a first angle with respect to the lower channel forming a first path, and a rear channel extending upwards and connecting to an upper channel at a second angle with respect to an upper channel forming a second path, where the first path intersects the second path at a cross-over region.