Vehicle Window Frame Adaptation Using Segmented T-Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window frames for vehicles, particularly those with fiber composite material fuselages, require numerous molds and result in a high variety of parts due to varying material thicknesses at window openings, making adaptation challenging and costly.
Innovation Solution
A window frame comprising a stiffening frame component with an inner flange and a coupling portion, allowing for customizable adaptation to different material thicknesses through a form-fitting, two-piece T-shaped profile, where the inner flange can be trimmed to size and connected using bonding or welding methods, reducing the need for multiple tools and parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If window frames are individually adapted to different material thicknesses using separate molds, then adaptation precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to high variety of parts
Solution Approach 1:
The window frame is divided into two separate components: a stiffening frame component and an inner retaining frame component. The inner retaining frame component can be independently adjusted in length to adapt to different material thicknesses, while the stiffening frame component remains standardized. This segmentation allows customization without requiring multiple complete frame molds.
Solution Approach 2:
Only the inner retaining frame component is customized to match local variations in material thickness, while the stiffening frame component maintains a standardized design. This localized adaptation reduces the overall variety of parts needed while still achieving precise fit to different fuselage configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple molds are used to fabricate individually adapted window frames, then adaptability to different material thicknesses is improved, but manufacturing efficiency decreases due to high tool diversity
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the window frame into standardized and customizable components, the number of molds required is significantly reduced. Only the inner retaining frame component needs variable length molding capability, while the stiffening frame component can be produced with a single mold design.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffening frame component is designed as a universal part that can be used across different window frame configurations. This standardization allows the same mold to produce stiffening frame components for various adaptability scenarios, improving manufacturing efficiency.
3Strength
If a T-shaped profile is used to provide stiffening, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different material thicknesses deteriorates due to fixed geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The T-shaped stiffening structure is separated from the retaining frame function. The stiffening frame component provides the fixed-geometry T-shaped profile for structural strength, while the inner retaining frame component provides the adjustable length for adaptability. This segmentation allows both requirements to be satisfied independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffening function is localized to the stiffening frame component with its optimized T-shaped geometry, while the adaptability function is localized to the inner retaining frame component with its variable length. Each component is optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle window frame includes a stiffening frame component and an inner retaining frame component adapted to be coupled to the stiffening frame component for receiving at least a portion of a window. The stiffening frame component includes a profile having a support portion and an inner flange extending perpendicularly thereto and forming an inner edge of the stiffening frame component. The support portion forms a support surface extending radially outwardly from the inner edge for support against an edge surface of a window opening. The inner retaining frame component includes a profile having a coupling portion adapted to be fitted onto the inner flange and a connecting portion. forming an edge surface of the retaining frame component for overlapping the edge surface and having at a radially inner boundary thereof a projection facing away from the coupling portion and the support portion for wrapping around the window opening.