Vehicle Sunroof Panel Joint Layer for Rim Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sunroof panels for vehicles require separate components to cover and attach glass panels, which complicates the manufacturing process and may lead to issues with sealing and mounting efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A sunroof apparatus with a frame unit and joint layers made of liquid resin that cover and join the edges of the frame-rim and fixed panels, allowing for easier attachment and integration of the panels with the side frames, eliminating the need for separate components to cover the panel rims and attach them to the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate resin components are used to cover panel rims and attach panels to frames, then the panel rims are protected, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of covering panel rims and attaching panels to frames into a single integrated resin component. This joint layer simultaneously protects the glass panel rims and secures the panels to the frame structure, eliminating the need for separate covering and attaching components, thus simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining protection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The resin joint layer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a protective cover for the panel rims, serves as an adhesive to attach the glass panels to the frame, and provides sealing between the panel and frame. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed and streamlines the manufacturing process
2Reliability
If separate components are used for covering and attaching, then the panel rims are protected, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the rim protection function and the attachment function into a single resin joint layer, the manufacturing process requires only one application step instead of multiple sequential steps, directly reducing manufacturing time and improving productivity while ensuring continuous protection of the panel rims
Solution Approach 2:
The resin joint layer is designed to be applied in a single preliminary action that simultaneously achieves both rim protection and panel attachment. This eliminates the need for subsequent separate operations, thereby reducing total manufacturing time and increasing production efficiency
3Strength
If multiple separate components are used, then the panel is securely attached, but the sealing characteristics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated resin joint layer creates continuous contact between the glass panel rim and the frame structure, forming an unbroken sealing interface. This eliminates gaps or discontinuities that could occur with separate components, thereby improving sealing characteristics while maintaining secure attachment through the same continuous resin bond
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
This configuration simplifies the manufacturing process, enhances mountability and sealing characteristics, and allows for easier adjustment of the sunroof panel's length to fit different vehicle designs, while reducing the complexity of attaching fixed panels to the frame units.
Implementation Method 1
a joint layer covering a panel-rim of the fixed panel and joining the main frame and the fixed panel
Data Source
AI summary
A sunroof apparatus for a vehicle includes a first side frame and a second side frame disposed at opposing ends of the sunroof apparatus in a vehicle width direction, a frame unit including a main frame, a first sub frame, and a second sub frame, the frame unit connecting an end portion of the first side frame and an end portion of the second side frame in the vehicle width direction, a fixed panel covering the opening portion of the main frame, and a joint layer covering a rim of the fixed panel and joining the main frame and the fixed panel. The first side frame and the second side frame are connected with the first sub frame and the second sub frame in the vehicle front-rear direction, respectively.