Vehicle Closure Seal Between Independently Pivoting Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure systems for vehicles, such as tailgates, face challenges in effectively sealing the interface between upper and lower closure modules when they are in closed positions, while still allowing independent movement of each module.
Innovation Solution
A sealing system that includes a bulb seal sandwiched between a pivotable flap of the upper closure module and a flange of the lower closure module, allowing the upper module to pivot back-and-forth between closed and open positions while the lower module is closed, and vice versa.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the closure modules are shingled to seal the interface, then the sealing effectiveness is improved, but the operational complexity increases due to the interdependent opening sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into two independent closure modules (first and second modules) that can operate separately. Each module has its own sealing mechanism, allowing them to be opened independently while maintaining sealing effectiveness when closed, thus reducing operational complexity while preserving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary element between the first closure module and the second closure module. This seal member actively moves to engage with the flange of the second module, mediating the sealing function and allowing independent operation of each module while maintaining effective sealing at the interface.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed seal is used at the interface, then the sealing is simple to implement, but it prevents independent movement of the closure modules
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to move between a retracted position (enabling independent module movement) and an engaged position (providing sealing). This dynamic behavior enables the seal to adapt to different operational states, maintaining both ease of implementation and operational versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing system changes its operational parameters based on the state of the closure modules. When modules need to move independently, the seal retracts; when sealing is required, the seal engages with the flange. This parameter change allows the system to maintain simplicity while enabling versatile operation.
3Reliability
If the seal engages with the flange, then the sealing effectiveness is improved, but it blocks the movement of the first closure module
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is designed to dynamically change its position based on operational requirements. It can engage with the flange to provide effective sealing when needed, and retract to allow free movement of the first closure module. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between sealing effectiveness and operational freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal member performs periodic engagement and disengagement actions. During normal operation, the seal is retracted to allow movement. When sealing is required, the seal engages with the flange. This periodic action between engaged and retracted states allows the system to alternate between sealing effectiveness and movement freedom as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure system, includes a first closure module pivotable between a first closure closed position and a first closure open position, and a second closure module pivotable between a second closure closed position and a second closure open position. A sealing system that seals an interface between the first closure module and the second closure module when the first closure module is in the first closure closed position and the second closure module is in the second closure closed position.