Wind Deflector Assembly Dual-Axis Support Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Wind deflector arrangements for motor vehicle roof openings are often bulky, expensive due to numerous mechanical components, and can generate noise and energy losses during operation.
Innovation Solution
A wind deflector assembly with a frame and rotatable wind deflector bracket, supported by a dual-axis rotating mechanism that allows for a high deployment angle with a small footprint, utilizing pivot joints and a spring for efficient movement and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical components are used for wind deflector arrangements, then the structural strength and reliability are improved, but the installation space requirement increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mechanical functions into a single integrated support element that provides both rotational support and positioning functions. The support element integrates the bearing surface, rotation axis definition, and linkages into one component, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets, adjustment mechanisms, and positioning devices, thereby reducing installation space while maintaining structural reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The support element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a rotation axis bearing, a structural link between frame and deflector, a positioning mechanism through its geometric constraints, and a force transmission element. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and installation footprint while ensuring reliable operation
2Reliability
If traditional mechanical components are used for wind deflector arrangements, then the structural strength and reliability are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to numerous components
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple functions into the single support element, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the necessary structural reliability through the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the design parameters from multiple discrete components with individual tolerances to a single component where the rotation axis and positioning are defined by the geometry of the support element itself, simplifying manufacturing and reducing quality control costs
3Strength
If mechanical components are used for wind deflector arrangements, then the structural strength is improved, but energy losses occur due to deflections on mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated support element minimizes the number of mechanical interfaces and connection points where energy losses could occur. By eliminating multiple separate joints and connections, the design reduces cumulative deflections and energy losses while maintaining necessary structural strength through the unified geometry of the support element
4Strength
If mechanical components are used for wind deflector arrangements, then the structural strength is improved, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The single integrated support element eliminates multiple separate mechanical joints and connections that would generate noise during operation. The unified structure reduces the number of contact surfaces where friction and impact noises could occur, while maintaining structural strength through its geometric design
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 enables a compact, cost-effective wind deflector with a high deployment angle, minimizing installation space and energy consumption while reducing noise and mechanical stress.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (105) which is coupled to the frame (101) and to the wind deflector bracket (102) and which is set up to exert a spring force on the wind deflector bracket (102)
Implementation Method 2
a first pivot joint (104) which couples the frame (101) and the wind deflector bracket (102) to one another in a rotatable manner about a first axis of rotation (A)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a wind deflector assembly for a roof opening that can be closed and opened by a cover in a roof skin of a vehicle, comprising a frame (101) designed to surround the roof opening at least partially, a wind deflector bracket (102) that is coupled to the frame (101) such that the wind deflector bracket (102) is rotatable about a first axis of rotation (A) relative to the frame (101) and the roof skin, a support element (103) that is coupled to the wind deflector bracket (102) and the frame (101) such that, during a first portion of a movement of the wind deflector bracket (102), the support element (103) is rotatable relative to the frame (101) about a second axis of rotation (B) and, during a further portion of the movement, is rotatable about a third axis of rotation (C) different from the second axis of rotation (B).