Vehicle Window Sunshade Close-Out Member Concealment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle window sunshade assemblies appear unattractive when in the extended position due to visible structural components, and there is a need for improved aesthetics and additional sound dampening capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A sunshade assembly that includes a close-out member positioned to conceal the underlying structure and support elements, enhancing the appearance by hiding unattractive portions and providing sound dampening through the use of materials like sound-absorbing textiles or foams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the sunshade assembly uses a visible P-shelf support structure, then the structural strength and support are improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates when the sunshade is extended
Solution Approach 1:
A close-out member is introduced as an intermediary component between the sunshade assembly and the trim member. This close-out member conceals the unsightly P-shelf support structure and other mechanical components while allowing the sunshade to extend through the trim member opening. The close-out member acts as a visual barrier that maintains structural integrity while improving aesthetic appearance.
2Shape
If the close-out member is added to conceal structural components, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The close-out member is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it conceals unsightly structural components, provides sound dampening capabilities, and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the trim member area. By combining these functions into a single component, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving multiple benefits.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If sound-absorbing materials are incorporated into the close-out member, then the sound dampening capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The close-out member is constructed using composite materials that combine a structural base material with sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic foam or sound-absorbing textiles. This composite construction provides both structural support and sound dampening capabilities. The sound-absorbing materials can be attached to the inner surface of the close-out member, creating an effective noise-reducing barrier without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
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 effectively conceals unattractive structural elements, enhancing the appearance and providing additional sound dampening capabilities, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and functional sunshade assembly.
Implementation Method 1
the close-out member extends generally around the end of the sunshade to conceal an area behind the end of the sunshade from view through the sunshade opening
Implementation Method 2
providing additional sound dampening capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle window sunshade assembly includes a vehicle structure, a trim member, a sunshade and a close-out member. The trim member is dimensioned to at least partially cover the vehicle structure. The trim member also has a sunshade opening and attachment portions for coupling to the vehicle structure. The sunshade has an end supported by the vehicle structure. The sunshade is movable between a retracted position and an extended position such that in the extended position at least a portion of the sunshade extends through the sunshade opening. The close-out member is supported by the vehicle structure and positioned such that with the trim member installed to the vehicle structure the close-out member extends generally around the end of the sunshade to conceal an area behind the end of the sunshade from view through the sunshade opening.