Vehicle Sunshade Zig-Zag Clamping for Compact Stable Folding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sunshades for vehicles are prone to folding back due to creases in cardboard materials, are bulky to store, and lack a durable clamping mechanism, which limits their ability to cover multiple windows and requires excessive materials.
Innovation Solution
A sunshade with a Zig-Zag pattern clamping mechanism connecting flexible oval-shaped loops, providing strength and durability, along with a vinyl backing for cosmetic appeal, allowing the sunshade to stay in position and be compactly folded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used to connect the endpoints of closed loops, then the sunshade can be assembled, but the fasteners are not capable of holding the endpoints for a long duration and may damage the sunshade
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the loop endpoints by creating compressed portions with specific dimensions (e.g., 0.5-2 inches in length) and cross-sectional area reductions (e.g., 20-80% reduction). These parameter changes enable the endpoints to be securely clamped without complex fasteners, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the loop structure by creating distinct compressed portions at the endpoints that are separate from the main loop body. These segmented portions serve as dedicated clamping interfaces, allowing the sunshade to be assembled and disassembled without compromising the integrity of the entire structure, thus improving reliability while maintaining simplicity.
2Volume of moving object
If accordion-style folding is used for cardboard sunshades, then the sunshade can be compacted for storage, but the creases cause the shade to contract toward the folded position and become bulky to pack
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible fabric material instead of rigid cardboard, allowing the sunshade to be folded and stored compactly without permanent creases. The flexible material maintains its structural integrity through repeated folding cycles, resolving the contradiction between reducing storage volume and maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic structure where the flexible loops can transition between expanded (deployed) and collapsed (stored) states. The compressed portions at the endpoints provide structural stability when deployed while allowing easy folding for storage, eliminating the contraction problem associated with accordion-style cardboard shades.
3Loss of substance
If conventional circular loops are used in sunshade design, then the structure is simple, but the design wastes material and is not optimized for taller windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from symmetric circular loops to asymmetric oval-shaped loops with specific dimensional ratios (e.g., major axis to minor axis ratio of 1.2:1 to 2:1). This asymmetric design optimizes material usage for taller window applications while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, resolving the contradiction between reducing material waste and maintaining design complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the loops from circles to ovals with specific aspect ratios and dimensions optimized for vertical window coverage. This parameter change reduces material waste by better matching the typical vertical orientation of vehicle windows while keeping the design simple enough for mass production.
4Ease of manufacture
If simple connector fasteners are used, then the sunshade can be easily assembled, but the fasteners cannot hold the endpoints for long duration and may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from separate connector components and integrates it directly into the loop structure through compressed portions at the endpoints. This eliminates the need for separate fasteners that could fail, while maintaining ease of assembly through simple interlocking of the compressed portions with corresponding slots or openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressed portions at the loop endpoints serve as self-contained clamping interfaces that do not require external fasteners. The structure is self-sufficient, with the compressed portions providing both the mechanical interface and the clamping force needed for secure attachment, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of manufacture.
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 Zig-Zag pattern clamping mechanism ensures the sunshade remains stable in extreme heat and extended use, reduces material waste, and allows for efficient coverage of taller windows with a more compact design.
Implementation Method 1
The Zig-Zag clamping mechanism 10 can locate on each flexible oval shaped loops at the offset position to one another. Results in a ZIG ZAG kind clamping which bends the outer sleeve and a flexible metal wire placed in the oval-shaped closed loops a bit in a ZIG-ZAG manner so the strength of it doesn't weaken over the time period.
Implementation Method 2
one being the reflective insulating material on the outside, to block the suns rays and protecting the interior of the vehicle from heat and sun damage
Implementation Method 3
one being the reflective insulating material on the outside, to block the suns rays and protecting the interior of the vehicle from heat and sun damage
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is improved sunshade over the prior art, by adding additional strength with a Zig-Zag clamping mechanism for connecting and securing the two endpoints of each flexible oval shaped loops to allow flexibility and strength. And still utilizing materials that add superior reflective and insulating properties, plus an optional stronger vinyl backing for cosmetic appeal. Allowing the sunshade the durability and strength to stay in position during its use.